Get to the Point!

About the Author

Joel Schwartzberg is an accomplished author, communication consultant, and public speaking coach who has dedicated his career to helping people articulate their thoughts more clearly and effectively. With decades of experience in the field, Schwartzberg has developed a reputation for his insightful, practical advice that resonates with both novices and seasoned communicators alike. His work is rooted in the belief that clear communication is not just about being articulate, but about ensuring that the core message—the point—is understood by the audience.

Schwartzberg’s journey into the world of communication began with his involvement in competitive debate during his college years. He later became a coach for public speaking teams and has since expanded his influence by serving as the communications director for the ASPCA. His expertise in communication was further recognized when he was inducted into the Hall of Fame of the National Forensic Association, a testament to his contributions to the field.

In his book "Get to the Point!", Schwartzberg distills his extensive experience into a concise guide that helps readers identify, hone, and effectively communicate their key messages. His approach is practical, focusing on actionable steps that anyone can take to improve their communication skills. Through his work, Schwartzberg empowers people to not just speak, but to make their words count.

Main Idea

"Get to the Point!" is a book that aims to revolutionize the way we think about communication. Schwartzberg argues that the biggest obstacle to effective communication is not a lack of clarity, but a failure to identify the core message—the point—that we want to convey. He posits that without a clear point, communication becomes aimless and ineffective, regardless of how articulate or eloquent the speaker might be.

The book is structured to guide readers through the process of discovering their point, crafting it into a powerful message, and delivering it in a way that resonates with their audience. Schwartzberg breaks down the process into manageable steps, making it accessible for anyone, whether they are preparing for a high-stakes presentation or simply trying to communicate more effectively in everyday conversations.

Through a blend of practical advice, real-world examples, and insights from his extensive career, Schwartzberg provides a roadmap for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills. The book is not just about learning to speak well; it’s about ensuring that your words have impact and that your message is understood.

Identify and Hone Your Point

Step 1: Determine Whether Your Point Is a Point With "I Believe"

One of the fundamental principles Schwartzberg introduces is the "I believe" statement, a tool designed to help you identify whether you actually have a point or are merely discussing a topic. This distinction is crucial because a topic can be broad and unfocused, whereas a point is a specific assertion that can be supported and defended.

For example, if you say, "I believe that teacher shortages," you’re not making a clear point. This statement is incomplete and does not convey a specific idea. However, if you say, "I believe that teacher shortages will lead to long-term problems in the public education system in the US," you are making a clear, concise point that can be discussed and analyzed. This method forces you to clarify your thoughts and ensures that you are actually making a point that can be communicated effectively.

Schwartzberg emphasizes that this technique is not just about stating your point but about ensuring that it is something you can explain and defend. The "I believe" statement acts as a filter, allowing you to sift through your thoughts and focus on what is truly important.

weak vs. strong points:

• Weak Point: "I believe that technology in schools."
• Strong Point: "I believe that integrating technology in schools can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes."
• Weak Point: "I believe that healthy eating."
• Strong Point: "I believe that a balanced diet is essential for maintaining mental clarity and physical health."

Step 2: Strengthen Your Point With "So What?"

Once you have identified your point, the next step is to strengthen it. Schwartzberg introduces the "So what?" test as a way to determine whether your point is compelling and worth communicating. If your point doesn’t elicit a reaction or response from your audience, it’s likely too weak.

For instance, the statement "The sky is blue" is factual, but it is not a compelling point because it doesn’t provoke thought or require analysis. If someone were to respond with "So what?" to this statement, it would be difficult to argue its significance. However, a stronger point might be, "The perception of the sky as blue is influenced by the scattering of sunlight by the atmosphere, which changes throughout the day." This statement invites further discussion and analysis, making it a more compelling point.

Schwartzberg’s "So what?" test helps you avoid making statements that are obvious or universally accepted truths, which don’t contribute to a meaningful conversation. Instead, he encourages you to craft points that challenge assumptions, provoke thought, and require evidence to support.

applying the "So what?" test:

• Weak Point: "Exercise is good for you."
• Stronger Point: "Regular exercise can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and extend life expectancy."
• Weak Point: "Water is essential for life."
• Stronger Point: "Adequate hydration is crucial for maintaining cognitive function and preventing kidney disease."

Step 3: Hone Your Point With "Why?"

After identifying and strengthening your point, the final step is to hone it by asking "Why?". This question helps you dig deeper into your point, clarifying your reasoning and ensuring that every word in your statement serves a purpose.

For example, if your point is "I believe that training our dog is important," asking "Why?" could lead to a more refined statement like "I believe that training our dog will allow us to take him to the park without worrying that he’ll bite someone." This refined statement is more specific and focused, making it easier for your audience to understand and engage with your point.

Schwartzberg’s approach to honing your point is all about precision. By continuously asking "Why?" you can strip away unnecessary language and focus on the core message you want to convey. This not only makes your point stronger but also ensures that it resonates with your audience.

honing your point: