Book Talk on Brief: \u3ci\u3eMake a Bigger Impact by Saying Less\u3c/i\u3e by Jonathan McCormack: Ten Key Concepts and Six Lessons for Improving Communication in a World Full of Distractions

Abstract

This Lunch and Learn presentation, delivered by Wheeler Hall from the D’Azzo Research Library (DRL) and hosted by the Center for Innovation in Education (CIE), focuses on the principles outlined in Joseph McCormack’s Brief: Make a Bigger Impact by Saying Less (2014). The session serves as a summary for the book and explores strategies for effective communication in a distraction-filled world, emphasizing brevity, clarity, and audience engagement. After an introduction from Jonathan Zemmer (CIE), Mr. Hall relays McCormack’s background, the practical workplace applications in Brief, and key concepts from the book, including the BRIEF mnemonic (Background, Reason, Information, Ending, Follow-up), the seven capital sins of communication, and the importance of storytelling. The presentation concludes with six lessons for refining communication, including thorough research, concise delivery, and respect for others’ time. Viewers are encouraged to borrow copies of the book from the library to further enhance their communication skills, applicable in both professional and personal contexts