Dec 08 06
CommTips #2: Bottom-Lining
By Maureen Taylor
Have you ever asked a question with the intention of receiving a quick response, and instead gotten a short speech? Do you have employees or colleagues that tend to ramble when they’re talking? In most business settings, the best way to answer a question is with Bottom Lining.
Bottom lining information has three components:
Answer the question:
Many times we’ll start with the explanation and get to the answer at the end.
Keep the answer short while still giving information:
“Fine” isn’t usually enough of an answer, you need to give some information. For example: “We’re fine, right on track to meet our deadlines.” This allays fears without burdening anyone with all of the details.
Offer more information:
Using the same example: “We’re fine, right on track to meet our deadlines. Would you like more information about our specific timeline?”
The next time an executive or a colleague asks you a question – try bottom lining your answer and see what kind of response you get. More than likely, the other person will appreciate you for valuing their time.
[...] Bottom line everything, every time, everywhere. [...]