…After all, as McKinsey consultants, we often needed to persuade C-level execs of large companies to make decisions that would change their company and sometimes even their industry.

Whenever you’re trying to persuade a senior person to do something, always present 3 reasons. Not 2, not 4, but exactly 3.

I observed that The Rule of 3 was actually pretty effective in persuading clients to take action. Why? Three reasons:

1. Your argument gets their attention and is memorable
2. You are forced to choose the 3 most important reasons
3. You sound more structured, confident and decisive when you speak