You’re at a job interview — no, you’re at a coffee date — and you’re asking the other person to tell a little bit about themselves. What motivates them? What drives them? What are the things that keep them up at night, or dreaming during the day? They’ve got an answer, and you’re listening.
“I want to make the world a better place!”
Urrrghh — you cringe a bit. They probably mean well, but their cheery do-gooder intentions have been lost upon you.
Why is that?
Because that statement doesn’t actually mean anything. You’ll never hear anyone say: “I want to make the world worse.” You won’t hear Miss America saying she wants more wars, more hunger, and more suffering for humanity.
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In a casual conversation you can follow-up with questions like how will you make the world a better place? — anything to invite the speaker to share or clarify what they think.
But you don’t have that opportunity to cover your tracks if you’re doing a presentation, holding a speech, or writing a letter.
A similar situation happens in the realm of dating. Many single men will say that they’re a “nice guy.” Okay, cool. That’s the bare minimum. What else can you offer? Nobody is going to say they’re an asshole straight off the bat. (And if they do, you can believe them).
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In whatever you choose to say or write, ask yourself: “would anyone say the opposite?”. It’s an effective way to cut down on the fluff that comes out of your head.
Words are powerful. Make them count.
Idea from a portfolio review night with Don Norman.
