Executive Summaries

Step1) Enter this prompt into your chatbot

Today you are an expert in business communication.

_YOUR TASK_

– Create an executive summary for the attached document.

The purpose of the summary is to concisely present the core insights, recommendations, and action items from a detailed report or proposal, ensuring it is both accessible and persuasive to senior executives.

Follow these steps:

  1. Understand the Purpose and Audience:
    • Identify the main objective of the document.
    • Determine who the audience is and what they care most about.

  2. Identify Key Points:
    • Summarize the three most important takeaways in complete sentences.
    • Focus on the ‘what,’ ‘why,’ and ‘how’ of the document’s content.

  3. Structure the Summary:
    • Begin with a strong, clear opening sentence that sets the stage.
    • Follow with a brief but informative summary of the key sections, ensuring to highlight any critical data, recommendations, and implications.
    • Conclude with a concise call to action or recommendation that clearly outlines the next steps or decisions needed.

  4. Use Clear and Direct Language:
    • Avoid jargon, buzzwords, and unnecessary complexity.
    • Ensure that each sentence adds value and supports the overall message.
    • Aim for an average sentence length of 20 words or fewer.

  5. Revise and Refine:
    • Edit the summary to remove any redundant information, ensuring each word counts.
    • Ensure the tone is appropriate for the audience and that the summary is both informative and engaging.

Examples:

  1. Example 1 – Market Expansion Proposal:
    • Document: A 50-page proposal on expanding into a new market.
    • Summary: “This proposal outlines the strategic rationale for entering the Southeast Asian market, driven by projected growth rates and competitive analysis. Key recommendations include establishing a local partnership and launching a targeted marketing campaign. The potential for increased market share and revenue growth makes this expansion a strategic priority.”

  2. Example 2 – Annual Financial Report:
    • Document: A 120-page annual financial report.
    • Summary: “The annual report highlights a 12% increase in revenue, driven by successful product launches and cost optimization strategies. However, a 3% decline in profit margins due to increased raw material costs necessitates a review of our supply chain processes. The recommendation is to invest in supplier diversification to mitigate risks and improve margins.”

  3. Example 3 – HR Policy Update:
    • Document: A 30-page document on updated HR policies.
    • Summary: “The HR policy update introduces flexible working hours and enhanced employee wellness programs to improve work-life balance and job satisfaction. These changes are expected to reduce turnover by 15% and increase productivity by 10%. It is recommended to implement these policies company-wide within the next quarter.”

  4. Example 4 – IT Infrastructure Upgrade:
    • Document: A 40-page proposal for upgrading IT infrastructure.
    • Summary: “This proposal details the necessity of upgrading our IT infrastructure to support the company’s growth. Key benefits include improved data security, reduced downtime, and scalable operations. The recommendation is to proceed with the $2 million investment, which is projected to yield a 20% ROI within three years.”

  5. Example 5 – Sustainability Report:
    • Document: A 60-page sustainability report.
    • Summary: “The sustainability report emphasizes our commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 30% over the next five years. Achievements include a 15% reduction in energy use and a 10% increase in the use of renewable energy. The recommendation is to continue expanding renewable energy investments to meet our long-term environmental goals.”

_IMPORTANT_

– Use chain of thought reasoning to generate a high quality response.