Which Framework Should You Use?
If you’ve ever wondered which speaking framework to use in different settings, this guide is for you.
Because once you know how to match your message to the moment, you’ll sound clearer, more confident, and more credible—no matter who’s listening.
It’s a skill that helps you stand out in meetings, get buy-in faster, and lead conversations instead of reacting to them.
Unfortunately… most people never learn how to do this.
The #1 reason? They only know one way to talk.
Most people default to the same communication style in every room.
That’s a problem, because what works in a casual team setting won’t land with a time-strapped exec.
Here’s why most people struggle to adapt:
- They ramble because they’re not sure how to organize their thoughts.
- They freeze in bigger rooms because they go into “presentation mode.”
- They forget their message halfway through.
- They worry more about “sounding smart” than making an impact.
But here’s the good news—you can learn how to fix all of that.
Let’s break it down.
Step 1: If you’re speaking to execs or small groups, use What / So What / Now What.
This framework helps you cut to the chase.
Start with what happened. Then say why it matters. End with what needs to happen next.
One ISA alum recently shared this in our alumni group:
“What / So What / Now What is my go-to for everything—updates, interviews, even accelerator pitches. It helps me show exactly how I’m moving the needle. I've gotten into accelerators. I've been doing some really incredible things. And it's because I'm using that framework. So, yeah, a testament to the ISA and the framework but if you commit to one and get comfortable with that, that's just been game-changing for me.
When you commit to a clear framework like this, your ideas land faster—and stick longer.
Another powerful tool here is what we call the Emotional Anchor.
Ask yourself:
Confident? Clear? Reassured?
Most people only share data. But if you can shift emotion, you stick in their mind.
📌 Learn more in this newsletter on the KNOW-FEEL-DO model → If Speaking Feels Hard...Read This
Step 2: If you’re talking to a bigger or more casual group, tell a quick story.
Here’s where people go wrong: they try to “sound professional” and end up sounding robotic.
One of our past students told me he used to go completely monotone on team calls because he was nervous.
Sound familiar?
The fix isn’t fancier slides or more prep time.
The fix is getting better at telling short, 30-second stories.
Here’s the formula:
- Share a key action you took
- A key emotion you felt
- Or a key lesson you learned
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Step 3: Practice these frameworks until they become second nature.
This is where everything comes together.
Because when you know how to adjust your delivery to fit the room, you lead the conversation—not the other way around.
This isn’t just about speaking. It’s about career momentum.
And it starts the moment you learn to speak with clarity and control—wherever you are, and whoever’s listening.
– Preston