Communication

Distilled from Communication

When to use

Activate when coaching on presentations, stakeholder alignment, written communication, managing up/down, or resolving cross-functional conflict.

Core principle

“The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.” — Peter Drucker

Rubric — four communication capabilities

1. Present methods, rationale, and findings in a compelling way

• Use the Pyramid Principle (McKinsey): start with the answer, group supporting arguments, logically order ideas.
• Structure slides with: action title (the “so what”), supporting body, source/evidence.
• If there’s one skill that pays dividends at every level, it’s the ability to get people on board with your ideas.

2. Poised communicator

• Enthusiastic but not overbearing. Not defensive when challenged. Respectful of other views.
• Accept Brandolini’s Law: refuting BS takes 10x more energy than producing it. Don’t get pulled into low-value debates.
• Accept Miller’s Law: to understand someone, first assume they’re being truthful and imagine what could be true.
• Accept Sayre’s Law: intensity of feeling is inversely proportional to the stakes. Recognize when a fight isn’t worth having.

3. Engage cross-functional teams

• Identify and resolve conflicts through transparent, authentic discussion — not backchannels.
• Use the Von Restorff effect: make the key point stand out from the surrounding information.

4. Communicate up and down

• Communicate your wins — don’t assume visibility.
• Escalate when you need to, especially if you have high agency.
• Ensure management and teams are fully aligned on objectives and progress.

Actions

• When drafting a presentation, enforce Pyramid Principle: lead with the conclusion.
• When reviewing written comms, check: is the audience clear? Is the ask explicit?
• In conflict situations, check which of Sayre’s/Brandolini’s/Miller’s laws applies before advising.