Humanize your points in communication
#72: How to reduce cognitive load when presenting your case as a leader. Art of presenting.
How much does a blue whale weigh?
Answer » 1
130,000 – 180,000 kg
Answer » 2
It weighs around 180,000 kg, equivalent around to 40 big-grown elephants.
Which answer looks better? Which will resonate? Which one is easy to understand?
Showing them PowerPoint slides with statistics and charts only adds cognitive weight, draining their mental energy.
The trick to reducing cognitive load and making any data point enjoyable and interesting is to humanize it by placing the number in perspective. 1
Any time you introduce numbers, take the extra step to make them engaging, memorable, and, ultimately, persuasive.
Your case needs perspective. Better if it is catchy.
Equate numbers to the things that people are familiar with. Equate the significance of a point by adding emotional context.
Simplicity is not only reducing complexity. It is an art.
Convery feelings and meanings. Not just data.
Make your case (& points) resonate by making it close to people. Humanize.
https://hbr.org/2022/11/how-great-leaders-communicate