Pyramid Principle for Ramblers

The Pyramid Principle

Everyone can ramble sometimes, especially if they're passionate. So it's important to remember that communication is a skill you need to train.

The Pyramid Principle can help you coach your team to make their point more succinctly. It's based on a simple rule: Start with with the conclusion.

You can help your team apply this by asking a few targeted questions.

💡 Start with the conclusion

"What’s the main conclusion or idea you’d like me to take away from this?"

Train this habit by asking this question in your 1:1s if they start meandering, and get them to come prepared with this before giving updates in team meetings.

🧑‍⚖️ Give the main arguments

Down the pyramid we go!

Ask them: "Which pieces of information made you come to this conclusion?"

Remind them to keep it high-level. This is about laying the foundation underneath the conclusion, not giving every small detail.

📊 Add supporting details

"What detailed proof do you have?"

This step is only necessary if the argument and the audience needs it.

Train your team member to pause, look for engaged body language (like leaning forward, positive facial expressions) and ask before proceeding with things like data and graphs.