Using seven minute briefings

Seven-minute briefings: Communicating key information clearly and concisely

Leaders are often required to impart complex information in ways that set out important issues but are quick and easy to read and digest. 

Research suggests that seven minutes is the optimum time span to hold our attention, enabling us to concentrate and learn. Seven-minute briefings are based on a technique used by the FBI, but they can be a particularly helpful tool to enable managers to deliver a short briefing to practitioners on key issues. They can also form the basis for reflective discussions. 

Seven-minute briefings can have a flexible format, but usually have seven points that might include the following:

1. Background information

2. Why the issue matters

3 – 5.  Key points of information

6. Things to note and remember

7.  What to do

Why not send out a seven-minute briefing next time you have a new strategy to share? People are likely to find it more engaging than a dry and boring email. More information about the use of seven minute briefings can be found here and an example of how they can be used to promote professional curiosity is here.