Book SummaryThe 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication, by John C. Maxwell

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication

In The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication, internationally renowned speaker John C. Maxwell shares his secrets to becoming a confident and effective communicator capable of delivering any message to any audience. According to Maxwell, anyone can master public speaking by following the 16 laws he’s developed from a lifetime of public speaking. When you follow his advice on how to craft a powerful message and connect with your audience, you’ll be able to influence others and make a lasting impact with your words in all areas of...

The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication Summary Part 1: How to Become an Authentic and Credible Speaker

According to Maxwell, effective communication starts with the speaker: Your identity, actions, and values affect the way you speak and how others view you. Before you can sway your audience with your words, you must first win them over with your character. According to Maxwell, effective speakers have three characteristics: They focus on connection, develop their credibility, and pursue constant learning. In this section, we'll look at how to develop these three characteristics.

(Shortform note: It may be easier than Maxwell implies to win someone over with your character. In How Highly Effective People Speak, Peter D. Andrei explains that the cognitive bias called the halo effect makes people like you if they only perceive one positive trait of yours. This bias occurs because people tend to form impressions based on the first traits they notice. If people notice something positive about you first, they naturally assume you have other good qualities too. Perhaps, then, you may win your audience over by demonstrating even one...

The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication Summary Part 2: How to Prepare For Your Presentation

Now that you know the three characteristics of an effective speaker, let’s discuss how you can prepare for your presentation and create a strong message. According to Maxwell, even experienced speakers prepare extensively before speaking in front of an audience. Being well-prepared not only improves your ability to connect with and bring value to your audience, but it also helps you develop your communication skills as you reflect on your ideas and plan your approach. Maxwell presents several ways to create a compelling message and prepare for your presentation.

(Shortform note: What does it mean to be well-prepared? Some experts argue that you should know your script “cold”—that is, to know it like the back of your hand. When you deeply familiarize yourself with your presentation, you’ll not only have the opportunity to enhance your communication skills through practice, but you’ll sound more natural and be able to better connect with your audience. To know your script “cold,” craft your presentation at least four to six...

The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication Summary Part 3: How to Deliver Your Message

Now that you know how to prepare and create your message, let’s shift our focus to speaking in front of an audience. Maxwell offers suggestions on how to connect with your audience, maintain their attention, and make a lasting impression.

Believe in Yourself and Your Audience

According to Maxwell, your mindset, energy, and feelings affect how your audience receives you and your message. The more you believe in yourself and your speaking ability, the more your audience will. To be a more powerful communicator, Maxwell encourages you to adopt two beliefs:

1. Believe in your ability to communicate. Your self-confidence affects how you perform in front of an audience. If you show that you’re nervous, your audience will be more concerned about you than your message. Maxwell suggests you start small and develop a mantra: a short affirming statement to remind yourself that you’re able to communicate well and make a difference with your words.

(Shortform note: If public speaking makes you nervous, it can be hard to feel confident by stating mantras and affirming statements alone. In The Charisma Myth, Olivia Fox...

Shortform Exercise: Be Authentic and Credible at Your Next Presentation

Using Maxwell’s recommendations, strengthen your authenticity and credibility as a speaker and better connect with your audience.

Think about an upcoming speech or presentation you need to make. Briefly jot down what it’s about.