If you want a quick tutorial in how to answer a question well, check out the IBM ad where a skepitcal businessman grills a female colleague over the value of her “green proposal.”  Her answer is tight — two sentences.

Tight answers are far more persuasive than long ones. A two sentence answer says, “I know this and there’s no doubt.” There’s a sense of certainty that is disarming and inspires confidence.

Next time you know you’re going to be grilled. Prepare a list of questions you expect. Then come up with two sentence answers. You’ll inspire confidence.

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