How to prepare a great speech in 15 minutes with the "crystal structure"

Can you prepare a great speech in 15 minutes? 

I've had the chance to read Jag Singh and Oliver Aust's book "Message Machine: How Communications Will Make You an Unstoppable Founder" before its publication this week. 

One of the parts I loved most was about preparing talks and presentations in 15 minutes. This technique can save you hours each week and is used by top speakers, founders and CEOs. I recommend it to anyone who interacts with employees, investors and other audiences every day and has little time to prepare. 

Here's how:

1. Develop your outline on a single page. Follow the "crystal structure", as it will prompt you to write down the key elements of your talk. On top of the page is your key message, as well as your hook, to get the audience's attention within seconds. Always start with a bang.

2. The middle of a talk or presentation – where the crystal gets wider – can be conversational and free-flowing. Limit yourself to three points that underline your key message. Each point should be made memorable by a story or a "killer fact". 

3. In your conclusion, where the crystal narrows again at the bottom of your page, come back to your key message. Close the loop you opened in your introduction. For instance, if you use a provocative question as an attention hook at the beginning, answer it at the end. Your closing should also include a call to action. 

This one-page outline that looks like a crystal allows you to visualize your whole talk in your head so you can speak without slides or notes. 

It also forces you to be clear about the one point you want to get across and how you will bring it to life. Keep it simple. Stick to conversational language, as if you were explaining your idea to just one friend or colleague.

Message Machine is full of deep insights and actionable advice for founders and those working with them. If you are looking to become a better communicator in 2023, check it out now. 

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Christian