You've Got 8 Seconds: Communication Secrets for a Distracted World

Summary

Every day at work, people do three things: talk, listen, and pretend to listen. That’s not surprising when you consider that the average attention span has dropped to 8 seconds. To break through, says high-stakes communications expert Paul Hellman, you need to focus on your audience, be slightly different, and deliver with finesse.

Through fast, fun, actionable tips, You’ve Got 8 Seconds explains what works and what doesn’t, what’s forgettable and what sticks. With stories, scripts, and examples of good and bad messages, the book reveals three main strategies:

• Focus: Design a strong message—then say it in seconds
• Variety: Make routine information come alive
• Presence: Convey confidence and command attention

You’ll discover practical techniques, including the fast-focus method™ that the author uses with leadership teams; how to stand out in the first seconds of a presentation; and 10 actions that spell executive presence.

Whether pitching a project, giving a speech, selling a product, or just writing an email, with You’ve Got 8 Seconds you’ll get heard, get remembered, and get results.