"Communication is the most important skill anyone can possess."
- Richard Branson
The Rule of 3s.
Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Sun, moon, and stars.
Blood, sweat, and tears.
The Three Little Pigs
The Three Musketeers,
The Three Stooges.
The primary purpose of any communicator is to be clear, not eloquent, not sophisticated, but clear. One of the easiest ways to be clear is to use the powerful rule of 3 in your communication.
When I spoke at my mother-in-law's memorial service, I spoke of three of her endearing qualities. When a buddy asked me to be a reference for a new position he was seeking, I shared with the recruiter three of his positive characteristics. When a potential client asks why they should work with me, I am ready with three reasons.
So, in the spirit of clear communication, here are three reasons to use the powerful rule of 3.
1. Your communication is easier to follow.
Many people communicate by 'stream of consciousness', they say whatever comes to mind at the moment. The rule of 3 forces you to organize and structure your communication.
2. Your communication is more enjoyable.
When people don't have to spend a lot of energy figuring out what you are trying to say, you become easy to listen to. That can't be said of many speakers.
3. Your communication becomes more memorable.
You want people to retain what you say. They are unlikely to remember five points, or seven, or twelve but they can remember three.
Don't force it, but when you can, use the powerful rule of 3 in your communication. It's one of the simplest ways to make your communication clear, concise, and compelling.
(Sorry, I couldn't help myself.)