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Perspective and Process

Ben Guttmann Author Interview

Simply Put, Why Clear Messages Win and How to Design Them teaches readers how to improve their communication through simple and straightforward methods. What was the idea or spark that first set off the need to write this book?

I ran a marketing agency for ten years before recently selling it, and I joke that you can take the boy out of the marketing agency but can’t take the marketing out of the boy. I kept seeing amazing leaders and organizations with things to say and ideas to share, but who struggled to communicate in a way that lands. So I looked back at the work I did, my experience in the classroom as an adjunct, and through even my personal life as a user of the world to investigate how we can get better at that.

What is your background and experience in writing, and how did it help you write Simply Put?

Having first-hand experience in the field, as well as access to academic resources, shaped my entire perspective and process. This book is science-based, but it also draws deeply from real-world examples to illustrate the key ideas.

What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger?

I often say that all advice is autobiographical. When people are giving advice, they are really talking to themselves in the past. Equipped with that lens, this bit of meta-advice makes all other pieces of advice more effective.

What is one thing that you hope readers take away from your book?

Just as the sender of a letter needs to pay the postage, when we’re communicating in our realms it’s our responsibility to own the literal and metaphorical cost of our message.

Author Links: Goodreads | Website | Amazon

How do you break through the noise?

Why do some messages work when others don’t? Why do some ideas break through, why do some slogans stick in your brain, and why do some leaders inspire change – when others don’t?

The answer is simple. Literally.

The most effective communicators in the world all structure their messages the same way, by designing for simplicity. But the problem is, simple is hard work. Our brains are programmed to complicate. Our world incentivizes more, more, more. It takes deliberate, intentional effort to communicate in a way that seems effortless.

In Simply Put, award-winning marketing entrepreneur Ben Guttmann unveils a five-part framework that allows anybody to communicate with clarity. With this book, you’ll be able to design messages that are beneficial, focused, salient, empathetic, and minimal – and that work.

Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win – and How to Design Them

Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win and How to Design Them is a valuable resource for anyone who prioritizes effective communication. In this insightful guide, Ben Guttmann navigates the reader through the art of expressing oneself, sharing ideas, and fostering connections through simplicity. The book advocates for the power of straightforwardness in various aspects, such as branding, company slogans, and business practices.

Guttmann employs a straightforward, concise style that mirrors the principles he advocates. This approach not only makes the book accessible but also serves as a practical demonstration of his teachings. The structure of the book is thoughtfully organized into two distinct parts, each fulfilling a specific objective. The first part delves into the rationale behind simplicity, exploring its advantages and appeal. The second part is more hands-on, offering concrete strategies and practical examples for implementing simplicity in communication. This section is particularly beneficial for those in marketing, education and anyone seeking to enhance their skills in verbal and written communication.

One of the strengths of Simply Put is its engaging content. Guttmann intersperses solid advice with captivating stories, historical anecdotes, and references to contemporary trends and influential figures. This blend of technical knowledge with an informal writing style makes the book both informative and enjoyable to read. The book’s relevance extends across various fields and professions. It is an essential read for CEOs, marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, advertising specialists, and students. Guttmann’s concise messaging, complemented by thought-provoking quotes at the start of each chapter, adds depth and context to his discussions. Among the many insights offered, the idea that simple messages have a distinctive presence resonates profoundly.

Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win and How to Design Them stands out for its practicality, relevance, and engaging style. Ben Guttmann’s expertise in communication is evident throughout the book, making it a recommended read for anyone looking to refine their communication skills and embrace the power of simplicity.

Pages: 208 | ASIN: B0C3G6ZSLY

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