Delivering a Briefing: Creating an Outline (TRN1-J27)

Delivering a Briefing: Creating an Outline

The structure of a briefing

Introduction

Express a clear purpose.

List two to four key points.

Development

• Use facts to support the key points.
• Use transitions without repeating the key points.
• Address your audience's communication preferences, knowledge level, concerns and interests.

Clearly define two to four sub-elements per key point.

Conclusion

• Provide a concise summary of your briefing.

Include recommendations, next steps, or a call to action.

Presenting the Briefing

Body

Pay attention to:

• how you make eye contact
• your gestures
• your posture
• your audience's facial expressions

Voice

• Breathe often and keep a regular pace.
• Project your voice.
• Be expressive (do not read).

Language

• Use short sentences.
• Use the appropriate language level for your audience.
• Avoid distracting repetitions (such as um, so, like, etc.).

Related Resources

Online self-paced courses

• Writing Briefing Notes (TRN118)

Job aid

• Delivering a Briefing: Navigating the Unexpected (TRN1-J26)

Online courses

• Being Brief: Planning and Delivering a Successful Briefing (TRN152)
• Seeking a Decision from Executives in Two Minutes or Less (TRN222)
• By Design Online: Using Visuals and Narratives to Build Better Decks (TRN120)