Why Framing the Conversation Matters More Than Getting to the Point
“OK, we all know why we’re here and what we’re supposed to be doing, so let’s get to it!” If anyone kicks off a meeting saying this, you can bet the meeting will go off the rails. It presumes and assumes a heck of a lot. But worse, it entirely fails to set up the meeting in such a way that participants know:
Why they’re there
How they’re going to proceed
What their particular roles is, and
How they can show up as their best selves.
Resist the urge to jump to the bottom line up front (BLUF.) Instead, take the time to frame your conversation properly. An ounce of framing at the beginning is worth a pound of overcoming resistance in the middle.
Here’s why.
The Importance of Context
Sharing information without context confuses and disengages your audience. When participants lack background knowledge, they struggle to understand its importance or relevance. WIIFM is the radio station everyone is dialed in to at the beginning of a meeting: What’s In It For Me. By framing the conversation in context, you provide the reason why your participants should care and why the information matters.
The Value of Purpose
Understanding the "why" behind the purpose of the meeting helps define its value. When deciding on meeting outcomes, take a page from Total Quality Management and ask yourself five why’s: why is this meeting important? Why is THAT important? Why is THAT important? And so on until you hit the rock bottom purpose. Share that purpose with your participants. Whether you’re discussing a new corporate strategy or addressing a significant change in operations, explaining the purpose aligns your team to a shared goal. When participants understand the reasoning behind decisions, they are more likely to buy in and contribute effectively to the discussion.
Steps to Effectively Frame Conversations
1. Start with the Big Picture
Begin by sharing the broader context. Explain the situation, including relevant background information to help your audience understand the bigger picture.
2. Define the Purpose
Clearly state the purpose of the meeting. Why are you sharing this information? What do you hope to achieve? Set the stage for a focused and meaningful discussion.
3. Highlight the Relevance
Explain why the information is pertinent TO THEM. How does it impact your audience directly? Highlighting the relevance helps engage your audience and makes them more receptive to the message.
4. Share the Details
Once the context, purpose, and relevance are clear, you can then dive into the specifics. At this point, your participants will be prepared to absorb and understand the detailed information.
5. Invite Questions and Feedback
Encourage your audience to ask questions and provide feedback. This clarifies any misunderstandings and fosters a collaborative environment where everyone feels involved and valued. And invite differing perspectives! “Does anyone see it differently?” is a courageous and inclusive question. Don’t defend against differing perspectives: it’s enough to acknowledge that others have them.
“It is the mark of an educated mind to entertain a thought without accepting it.”
- Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics
While it may be tempting to jump straight to the point, taking the time to properly frame your conversation can lead to more effective communication and better outcomes. By providing context, defining the purpose, and highlighting the relevance, you ensure your audience is prepared to receive and engage with the information you share.
Side note: This isn’t just for business. This goes for professional and personal conversations.
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