My Fun, Creative Outline for Writing and Speaking
I’ve been writing and speaking for several decades. (Yep, I’m getting pretty old, though I rarely think it or act it. Only my body betrays me.)Years ago, somewhere, I was given a clever outline for writing and speaking that helps you grab the attention of your reader/listener. And keep it through to the end. (If you know where this came from, I’m glad to give credit. I have shared it with hundreds of people.)Here it is: Hey, you! See! So there!
Hey:
Catch their attention. Startle them. Ask a question. Say something outrageous. Make them want to read/listen to what you are going to say.
You:
Identify with them. What does this have to do with them? Use the word “you” or “your.” Promise them something you think they desire.
See:
Make your case. Fulfill your promise. This is the body of what you are saying—the main thing. Prove that you are giving them what you said you would.
So:
Elicit a response. What do you want to happen in their mind or their heart? Help them to recognize the benefit for them—and for others they care about.
There:
Action time! What should they do in response? How can they do it?I use this outline as a guide for many of my messages and much of my writing. I don’t necessarily follow it exactly, but it is in my mind as I write.Give it a try. How did it work for you? I would love to hear how you used/adapted it.C 2011 Judy Douglass