The Power Phrases Portfolio
To Drive Clarity: - "Let me summarize what I'm hearing..." - "The core issue seems to be..." - "If I understand correctly..."
To Add Strategic Value: - "Zooming out, this connects to our larger goal of..." - "The strategic implication here is..." - "This reminds me of [relevant case study] where..."
To Build Consensus: - "I see merit in both perspectives. What if we..." - "Building on [Name]'s point..." - "The common ground seems to be..."
To Drive Action: - "So our next steps are..." - "Who will own [specific action]?" - "When should we reconvene to assess progress?"
The Body Language Blueprint
Power Positions: - Sit where you're visible to decision makers - Maintain open, confident posture - Lean in when making points - Use purposeful gestures
Engagement Signals: - Active eye contact with speakers - Nodding to show understanding - Note-taking during key points - Facial expressions that show thinking
Virtual Presence: - Camera at eye level - Good lighting on face - Minimal background distractions - Look at camera when speaking
The Follow-Up Advantage
Most meeting value is captured after the meeting ends.
The 2-Hour Rule: Within 2 hours, send:
``` Subject: [Meeting Topic] - Key Decisions and Next Steps
Team,
Thank you for the productive discussion. Here's my summary:
Key Decisions: 1. [Decision with owner] 2. [Decision with timeline]
Action Items: - [Your name]: [Specific deliverable by date] - [Other]: [Their deliverable]
Open Items for Next Meeting: - [Topic needing further discussion]
Resources Mentioned: - [Link to relevant document]
Please let me know if I missed anything.
[Your name] ```
Follow-Up Impact: - Positions you as organized leader - Creates accountability - Documents your contributions - Drives actual progress