Every Ramayan can be said in 3 lines, 30 lines and 300 lines. I suggest, have all three versions handy at all times, for you don’t know what version you may have to use in the given situation.
I usually start with 3 line version with execs. If they probe further I get into the 30 line version. Sometimes I have to dig deep into the 300 lines. I don’t shy away from having the 30000 line version as well. Anticipating questions/clarifications prepares you better.
In Amazon we had an amazing method of documenting FAQ with every press release. I use FAQs even otherwise these days. It is a great way to prime your audience to think.
If the memo/narrative is complex, I use videos to explain the nature of the beast. Words can get ambiguous and tedious. Expecting the receiver to connect the dots in a complex narrative is a sin. It is the storytellers job. You choose the modality of your story. It can be verbal, visual, voice or video.
Usually video saves incredible amounts of time for the receiver.
Depending on the stakes on the ground, I adjust the time I spend on the modality of the stories. Some stories take phenomenal collaboration and months together to craft. Some stories take just minutes to craft.
When the giver is structured and systematic, receiver spends very little time to grasp the nuances and the nitty-gritties.
The more clear the giver is, the less time the receiver spends on absorbing the clarity.
Stories are a great way to build credibility and visibility. It is more science and less art. Story is what you edit and showcase. It need not have all details.
Storytelling takes enormous time and effort. With practice you get better overtime.
Are you spending the needed time and effort on this?
