All too often, we find ourselves in a meeting where someone takes an excruciatingly long time to answer a question. It could be a simple “yes, no” question. It could be a little more complicated. Yet, the person rambles on. We’ve seen executives at many levels respond to questions in a monologue fashion; when shorter would have been much more effective.  

Tips to keep in mind when answering a question:

• start at the highest level by answering the question
• provide one supporting point
• wait for a follow up question.

If the questioner needs more information, they’ll ask a follow-up. Less is more in most situations. Make an impact in your next Q/A.