How can you create a satisfying conclusion to your business communications?

1 Review your key points

The first step to create a satisfying conclusion is to review your key points briefly and concisely. This will help your audience recall the most important information and understand how it supports your purpose. Avoid repeating everything you said in the body of your communication, and focus on the main takeaways that you want your audience to remember. For example, if you are writing a proposal, you can review the problem, the solution, and the benefits of your offer.

2 Relate to your audience

The second step to create a satisfying conclusion is to relate to your audience and show them how your communication affects them personally or professionally. This will help you establish rapport, credibility, and trust with your audience, and make them feel valued and engaged. You can relate to your audience by using examples, stories, testimonials, or emotions that appeal to their needs, interests, or goals. For example, if you are giving a presentation, you can relate to your audience by sharing a success story of a previous client or a personal anecdote that illustrates your point.

3 Recommend an action

The third step to create a satisfying conclusion is to recommend an action that you want your audience to take after reading or listening to your communication. This will help you achieve your desired outcome, whether it is to persuade, inform, or inspire your audience. You can recommend an action by using clear and direct language, explaining the benefits or consequences of taking or not taking the action, and providing a call to action that tells your audience what to do next. For example, if you are sending an email, you can recommend an action by asking your audience to reply, call, or visit a website.

4 Restate your purpose

The fourth and final step to create a satisfying conclusion is to restate your purpose and thank your audience for their attention and cooperation. This will help you reinforce your main message, show your appreciation, and end your communication on a positive and polite note. You can restate your purpose by using different words than you used in the introduction, highlighting the value or benefit of your communication, and expressing your gratitude or goodwill. For example, if you are writing a report, you can restate your purpose by saying how your findings or recommendations will help your audience achieve their objectives or solve their problems, and thanking them for their support or feedback.