How To Make Your Words Stick In People’s Minds

Want to make your words stick like a catchy song you can't forget?

Imagine you’re in a meeting, presenting new data or an idea…and your words – the core message… 

Lingering in someone’s mind. Like a song that keeps playing over in your head. 

Wouldn’t that be a game-changer? 

There’s a simple yet powerful technique to make this happen. 

And mastering it will transform your interactions, making your messages clear and memorable. 

Which should be your main goal… 

People fall into the trap of using complicated words or long sentences. Thinking it makes us sound smarter to impress others. 

In reality, it leads to confusion. 

If your message isn’t clear, people stop paying attention and miss your point. 

We’ve all been there — sitting in a meeting, listening to someone using words that seem plucked straight from a thesaurus. 

They think they're impressing the room, but really, everyone’s just lost. 

I’ve worked in corporate for decades, and it’s like a script:

Fancy language. Big words. Zero impact. 

People think complexity = intelligence, but all it does is create a fog. 

If your message isn’t clear, people tune out.

Picture you’re giving a presentation, pouring your heart out, but all you get back are blank stares. Or worse! Wandering eyes.

You know that glazed-over look? 

It’s not that they’re uninterested; they’re just confused.

When your words are tangled, your message gets lost, and you come off as unapproachable. 

You’re trying to connect, but instead, you build a wall.

But what if I told you there’s a better way? 

Think back to talking with a 12-year-old. 

You’d keep it simple, right? Clear and to the point. 

That’s how you should communicate with everyone.

Here are 3 ways to make your message stick in people’s minds, long after the conversation ends. 

Short sentences grab attention. 

They’re like catchy headlines that people remember. 

Think about the phrase, “Make America Great Again.” – we might have different views on the man who said it but the point is – It’s short, sweet, and it sticks. 

Straightforward and powerful. 

Give a listen to Barack Obama or Simon Sinek's speeches. They use simple language that resonates. 

It’s punchy, memorable, and impactful.

Declutter your closet.

Getting rid of things you don’t use anymore feels great, right? Do the same with your words. 

Take the famous comedian, Jerry Seinfeld’s line: “Pop-Tarts can't go stale because they were never fresh.” Not a word wasted. 

Before you say something, ask, “Can I say this with fewer words?” 

Trimming the fat makes your message clear and effective.

Swap out the fancy words for ones that everyone gets. 

When I first started working, I thought big words made me look smart. 

But all it did was confuse people. Now, I just say what I mean. 

Instead of “commence,” say “start.” 

Instead of “terminate,” say “end.”

Instead of “contemplate,” say “think.”

Plain language invites connection. 

Ask yourself, “Would a 12-year-old understand this?” If not, simplify.

Here’s a fun challenge.

Next time someone asks you a question, answer with the simplest sentence possible. 

Or take a long message you’ve written and see how much you can shorten it. 

For instance, instead of saying, 

“I was reflecting on my position and have altered my perspective,” 

Just say, “I changed my mind.” 

It’s clearer, and there’s no way to misunderstand it.

So, using plain language is key to effective communication. 

Try using short sentences, shaving off extra words, and speaking plainly. 

It helps you connect with others and makes your message stick. 

You’ll find your confidence growing, and people will listen to what you have to say. 

Give it a try in your conversations this week.