Applying the rule of three to corporate communications

A communicator’s job is to distill information into easy-to-understand terms. We all wrestle with the clutter of industry jargon, acronyms and data when crafting a persuasive message. Whenever I’m in the weeds trying to communicate a complex issue, I often pause and remind myself to keep it simple.

Whether in speaking or writing, putting things in groups of threes is an effective way to reach your audience. Our brains are conditioned to keep things simple to retain information. We like choices, just not too many of them.

The rule of three isn’t new. From childhood we learn our ABC’s; to play Rock, Paper, Scissors; and to Stop, Drop, and Roll in case of fire. The rule is subconsciously a part of our daily life. Red, yellow and green lights keep us safe on the road. We order a small, medium or large drink (except at Starbucks). Athletes strive for a gold, silver or bronze medal.

Those of us in media relations are prepared with a few key messages before any interview. Regardless of what questions are asked, we should steer our answers toward one of those messages.

As communicators, how else might we apply the rule of three?

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