After writing an executive summary, it’s important to take several key steps to ensure that your document serves its intended purpose and is effectively presented to your target audience. Here’s what you should do after writing an executive summary:
- Review and Edit: Before sharing your executive summary, carefully review and edit the content. Check for grammar, spelling, and formatting errors. Ensure that the information is accurate, concise, and clear.
- Ensure Alignment: Make sure that the executive summary aligns with the main document or proposal it summarizes. Confirm that the recommendations, findings, and highlights mentioned in the summary match the content in the full report.
- Peer Review: If possible, have a colleague or team member review the executive summary. They can provide feedback on clarity, content, and overall effectiveness.
- Tailor to the Audience: Customize the executive summary for your specific audience. If you’re presenting it to different stakeholders or decision-makers, consider adjusting the tone, emphasis, and content to address their unique interests and concerns.
- Polish the Opening: The opening of the executive summary is critical. It should grab the reader’s attention and clearly state the purpose and significance of the document. Make sure it’s engaging and compelling.
- Emphasize Key Points: Highlight the most important findings, recommendations, and insights. Ensure that these critical elements are prominent and easily noticeable.
- Include Contact Information: Double-check that your contact information is up to date. If readers have questions or need further information, they should be able to easily reach out to you or your team.
- Formatting and Layout: Ensure that the document is well-formatted and visually appealing. Use headings, bullet points, and subheadings to make it easy for the reader to skim and find key information.
- Test for Readability: Read the executive summary from the perspective of someone unfamiliar with the full document. Ensure that it is comprehensible to a diverse audience.
- Distribute or Present: Depending on your purpose, you can distribute the executive summary electronically, physically, or present it in a meeting or pitch. If presenting it in person, be prepared to answer questions and provide additional context.
- Follow-Up: After distribution or presentation, follow up with your audience. This could involve scheduling meetings, addressing questions, and discussing the next steps.
- Track Engagement: If possible, use analytics or feedback mechanisms to track how the executive summary is received and engaged with by your audience. This can help you assess its impact and make necessary adjustments.
- Adjust as Needed: If feedback or new information warrants changes to the executive summary, be prepared to update and redistribute it.
Remember that the executive summary is often the first thing your audience will read, so it’s crucial that it is well-crafted and effectively communicates the key points and recommendations of your larger document or proposal.
