In the world of work, an equally important component of job performance is communication. By building good communication, it can strengthen the entire organization and empower human resources to face challenges in the workplace.

That is why implementing effective communication techniques is essential in the workplace. One effective communication technique that you can apply is top-down communication. Top-down communication is very important to ensure that employees remain aligned and in sync in achieving goals. 

Definition of Top-down Communication

Top-down communication is communication that starts by delivering the main insights/conclusions, then conveying supporting data and insights, and ends with facts and data.

This top-down communication technique has been widely applied by consultants. However, this communication technique can also be applied to all fields, from communicating with partners, superiors, to pitching to clients.

So, the bottom line is that top-down communication focuses on the needs of the interlocutor and is results-oriented.

Tips for Implementing Top-down Communication

Effective communication is not just about conveying information or messages, but also about how to deliver them completely and interestingly. Follow the tips below to make it easier for you to build effective communication in the workplace:

1. Start from the end

The term "start from the end" means to convey your main message from the beginning of the conversation. If you are used to delivering your conclusion/main message at the end, try to change that pattern.

If you deliver the main message at the end, it usually makes the listener lose interest in listening. Because they feel that the points you convey are not important and too long-winded. Consequently, they are not focused on what is being discussed.

2. Create a roadmap

After conveying the main message at the beginning, create a roadmap to reinforce your argument. The roadmap will help you to then convey the strategy/data in detail and clearly. 

3. Develop the main argument

Clarify the main argument with facts and data that you have collected. The more detailed, the better. This way, the listener will fully understand what you are conveying.

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Most people communicate in a storytelling or linear way. We are accustomed to starting communication from the past and writing a sequential story with the main message punchline at the end. Unfortunately, in business, sequential communication can easily lose the listener's interest. Therefore, top-down communication that prioritizes the punchline and reinforces it with structured thinking is highly applicable in the workplace.