You've mastered frameworks, hooks, and story spines. But what makes certain phrases unforgettable? Think "Just Do It" or "Think Different."
Welcome to sticky phrases and callbacks - the secret to making your messages echo in people's minds long after you stop speaking.
Engagement Message
What's a phrase from a speaker that you still remember months later?
Sticky phrases are short, rhythmic word combinations that lodge in memory. They're typically 2-5 words with simple language and often use repetition or alliteration.
"Less is more," "First things first," "Progress not perfection" - notice how they roll off the tongue?
Engagement Message
Can you think of another example that feels "sticky"?
Great sticky phrases share three qualities: they're simple (kindergarten vocabulary), rhythmic (natural to say), and relevant (connected to your message).
"Fail fast, learn faster" works because it's simple words, has rhythm, and delivers a clear principle.
Engagement Message
Which quality—simple, rhythmic, or relevant—helps you remember a phrase most?
Here's how to create them: start with your core message, then compress it into 2-5 words. Use techniques like rhyme, alliteration, or repetition.
"Ready, fire, aim" became "Ready, aim, fire" - small changes create big memorability differences.
Engagement Message
What's a key message you'd want to make sticky?
Callbacks are when you revisit your sticky phrase later in your message. Each repetition strengthens the memory and builds authority.
Use callbacks at transition points, during examples, or in your closing to reinforce your central theme.
Engagement Message
How might repeating a phrase throughout a talk affect your audience?
