“Smart Brevity” is a must-read for anyone navigating the crowded and noisy world of modern communication. Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen, and Roy Schwartz deliver a clear and compelling guide to distilling information to its essence, respecting the audience’s time and intelligence. This book is not just a manual on writing better emails or reports—it’s a philosophy on how to communicate with precision and impact in a world where attention is a scarce resource.
The authors’ advice is both practical and powerful. They emphasize the importance of starting any communication by focusing on what the audience needs to hear, not what you want to say. This audience-first approach is reinforced by the idea that clarity and brevity are the ultimate forms of respect in communication. By cutting through the noise—whether it’s excessive text, jargon, or unnecessary details—the message becomes sharper, more compelling, and more likely to stick.
A standout lesson from “Smart Brevity” is the discipline required in word choice. The authors advocate for the use of short, strong words, and encourage writers to “kill at least half the words” after drafting. This monk-like discipline with words transforms ordinary communication into something powerful and memorable. The book also stresses the importance of making the first few sentences of any communication count—whether it’s an email, a headline, or a tweet—because these are often the only parts that get read.
In a world overflowing with content, “Smart Brevity” teaches that less is more. The authors highlight the value of crafting succinct subject lines, keeping presentations lean, and boiling down complex ideas into their most essential elements. They even extend this principle to meetings, advocating for a culture where time is valued and agendas are concise.
“Smart Brevity” is filled with actionable tips that can be applied immediately. From mastering the art of the subject line to creating visually engaging presentations that leave a lasting impression, the book is a treasure trove of advice for anyone looking to communicate more effectively. The wisdom here is simple yet profound: if you want to be heard, be brief. If you want to be understood, be clear. And if you want to make an impact, respect your audience’s time and intelligence.
In short, “Smart Brevity” is an essential guide for anyone who wants to cut through the clutter and communicate with power and precision. Whether you’re a seasoned communicator or just starting out, this book will change the way you think about words—and the way you use them.
Think Live Grow 