Prepare Talking Points

Jacob gave the same instructions to the second and third herdsmen and to all who followed behind the herds: “You must say the same thing to Esau when you meet him.” Genesis 32:19

If your organization has more than one person who might be asked for comments on a particular project, prepare formal lists of talking points so everyone will know what they are supposed to say.

This is not an attempt to gloss over the truth or stifle individualism; it is a valuable lesson that you, as a leader, would not want to learn the hard way.

This practice isn’t only used by spin doctors and professional liars. Your image is your most valuable asset, and preparing a short list of points on key issues will help you to avoid having to explain which one of two or three answers to the same question is actually the truth.

When reporters, customers, employees, or anyone else asks a question, you must all say the same thing.