Emre Guney

Instead of spending time discussing a half-baked idea, it’s better to share your thoughts as a write-up.

A well-thought write-up makes space for much more efficient use of meetings. They’re an effective communication tool that can help new managers to clarify their thinking, engage with a compelling case through their narrative structure and lead effective meetings to drive faster and better decisions. But what’s a good template to follow, I hear you say? 

Here are the 6 things new managers need to know for crafting a comprehensive write-up: 

1. Summary: This section tells your audience what to expect. Are you recommending approval? Are you asking for input? 3-4 sentences, maximum. 
2. Context: This section provides the details and facts of your argument—the context behind your opinion. Make sure you only include details that your readers generally accept. Any questionable facts included here will distract from your point.
3. Recommendation: This section is the heart of the write-up. Explain what you want to do, by when, and the expected outcome in plain language.
4. Rationale: Make an argument for why the audience should agree with your position using your three (or four) most compelling reasons. 
5. Rejected alternatives: This is also called “objection handling” in psychology. Anticipate your readers asking, “Did you consider x? and explain proactively why they aren’t as compelling. 
6. Next steps: List your time-bound next steps assuming approval or agreement.