Practice your answer out loud three times: first just answer, then in half the time, then half again. Each round forces a cut, and the last version is usually the clearest.
What I say in the video
Know a tough question is coming? Practice your answer three times, out loud. Question: "What's the biggest risk on this project?" First time, just answer.
"So, the biggest risk... I mean, there are a few things. The timeline's a concern, because we've got a couple of vendors who are, you know, running a little behind, and we've also got that budget conversation from last week that we haven't really closed out, so that could affect things too. But I'd say mostly, probably, the timeline."
Now say it in half the time. "The biggest risk is the timeline. Two vendors are behind, and that pushes our launch."
Now half again. "Timeline. Two vendors are behind. We need a decision by Friday." Notice what happened? It got shorter, and it got clearer. Try this with a question you know is coming this week. Your point is already there. You just have to cut what's around it.
What I didn’t say in the video
Most people resist the short answer because it feels thin. The long version feels like proof you did the work.
Here's what I see when I run this with clients. Their main point is often buried under too much other stuff. The point was in there. It just was hard to find.
You're not losing information. You're deciding what this room needs today. If they want the budget, they'll ask, and you'll have that answer ready too.
Try it today
Pick one question you know is coming this week. Say your answer out loud, then say it in half the time, before you walk in.
Bill Smartt is a New York executive presence and public speaking coach and the founder of Smartt Talk. He works with leaders in financial services, tech, advertising and startups.
