Three Tips to Reduce Rambling During Conversation and Meetings

Do you ever worry about rambling in meetings or conversation? You could have all the facts and be the most knowledgeable person in the room. However, you’ll lose your audience in seconds if you start to over-talk and deviate from your message.

So how can you ensure you stay on track?

I follow 3 simple techniques each time I present information (and I teach my clients to do the same):

1. Are you talking too much but not effectively emphasizing your main point? If so, reduce your rate of speech and build in 3-5 second pauses.” Communication experts agree that implementing targeted, intentional pauses help you to reduce the tendency to “over-talk” when excited, as well as to formulate your thoughts and ideas more effectively.

It might feel awkward at first! But once you master the “dramatic pause,” in daily speech and presentations, it will start to feel more comfortable and natural, with time and practice.

2. Are you consistently deviating from your key message? If so, refocus and support your main point with clear reasons and examples.

Consider using the simple method to stay on track (sometimes referred to as the P.R.E.S. model):

What: This is your key point. State it clearly and early.

Why: Ensure your audience understands your reason.

How: Provide an example or explanation.

What If: This is your summary/Call to action!

Let’s look an example of this method in practice:

What: Everyone should have a dog.

Why: Having a dog reduces loneliness, and research has shown that adopting a dog can have long-reaching emotional and physical health benefits including: XYZ.

How: When I adopted my first rescue dog, I noticed that my blood pressure was consistently lower after spending time with him. I also felt less anxious!

What If: So if you want a meaningful way to improve your emotional and physical well-being, consider adopting a dog. They will benefit from your care as much as you will!

This simple, effective technique can be implemented in any scenario, from daily conversations with friends to formal work presentations.

3. Is what you’re saying concise and relevant? If not, reframe by cutting your message down to its core essence. Think about how you would explain something if you had only a limited number of characters to use (i.e. a “tweet” or social media post). What are the essential elements of your message? Sometimes, less truly is more!

Pause → Refocus → Reframe

It's not about speaking more, but rather speaking effectively! A communication coach can help you shift from a tangential talker to a concise communicator.

Which of these techniques will you try first?