Stop overwhelming. Start influencing. Why three key messages are the secret to commanding any conversation.
You know too much.
That’s not a dig. It’s a compliment. You’re an expert. You’ve spent years mastering your field, solving complex problems, and navigating high-stakes moments.
And that expertise?
It can actually trip you up when you’re trying to connect, influence, or lead.
Because what matters to you doesn’t always matter to them.
Whether it’s a boardroom, a performance review, a keynote, or a media interview, you can’t take people on a tour of everything you know.
You have to simplify. Sharpen. Prioritize.
The Rule of 3: Limit Yourself to Three Key Messages
If there’s one rule I teach every executive I coach, it’s this:
Always walk into every conversation with three key messages.
That’s it.
The brain can only hold on to so much. Studies show that people retain information best when it’s delivered in threes. Go beyond that, and you risk losing them.
Why Three Key Messages Work
When you prepare three specific messages:
✔️ You stay focused, no matter how the conversation pivots
✔️ You give your audience something they’ll actually remember
✔️ You walk in with clarity and walk out with influence
No matter the moment, the Rule of 3 delivers clarity when it counts most. Whether you’re:
- Delivering feedback to your team
- Pitching a big idea to leadership
- Sitting down for a high-stakes interview
Three is your anchor. It’s your edge. It’s your control.
How to Use The Rule of 3 for Executive Leadership
Before any important conversation, ask yourself:
What are the 3 most important things this person needs to hear right now?
Not what you want to say.
Not what you find interesting.
What they need.
Write them down. Practice them out loud. Be ready to pivot to any of the three depending on the moment.
Want More Influence? Start with Three.
You don’t need to be the loudest in the room.
You need to be the clearest.
Simplify your message.
Say less, and say it better.
And always come prepared with three.
Need help finding your three?
At Janicek Performance Group, that’s what we do. Let’s discuss how to sharpen your message and show up as the leader people remember.
