The First Minute

Outline

The First Minute (2020) teaches how to start any conversation, email, or meeting in a way that gets straight to the point. Chris Fenning explains a simple framework for giving context, stating your purpose, and summarising key information clearly in the first minute. The book helps professionals save time, avoid confusion, and make sure their messages are understood.

• Starting a conversation, email or meeting well means getting to the point from the very first words.
• The book offers a simple framework for the first minute: give context, state your purpose, and summarise the key information.
• Giving context first helps the other person understand why you are speaking before they hear the details.
• Stating your purpose early saves time and reduces confusion for everyone involved.
• A clear opening makes it more likely that your message is understood and that decisions come faster.

Chris Fenning is a communication trainer, speaker, and author who has worked in senior roles at global companies. He teaches professionals and organisations how to communicate clearly and concisely at work. The First Minute is his best-known book.