The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication: Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message

by John C. Maxwell

Never Be Afraid to Speak to a Group Again

It’s been said that public speaking is the number one fear of most people, with death being second. “This means,” said comedian Jerry Seinfeld, “if you have to be at a funeral, you would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy.”

How can you overcome fear or ineffectiveness as a speaker? Learn the Laws of Communication!

John C. Maxwell has been a public speaker and motivational teacher for more than fifty years. He is one of only eight people on the planet who have been awarded Toastmaster’s Golden Gavel and been inducted into the National Speakers' Association Hall of Fame. In The 16 Undeniable Laws of Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message , he shares everything he’s learned from a lifetime of communication.

Learn how to


Everyone has a message to share. Whether you want to improve your ability to inspire employees, speak at PTA meetings, report to a board of directors, teach students, deliver a sermon, address a small group, speak from a stage, or communicate to an arena full of people, this book can help you.

Learn from one of the best communicators in the world and start making the most of your message today.

Genres: Communication, Leadership, Self Help, Nonfiction, Business, Psychology, Personal Development

320 pages, Hardcover

Published March 28, 2023

About the author

John Calvin Maxwell is an American author, speaker, and pastor who has written many books, primarily focusing on leadership. Titles include The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership and The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader. Some of his books have been on the New York Times Best Seller List.

Reviews

[Moh. Nasiri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary:

Key Points:

The Law of Connection - Communicate with others on their level, not yours.
The Law of the Big Picture - Communicate with a clear sense of purpose and direction.
The Law of the Niche - Know your audience and tailor your message to them.
The Law of the Heart - People follow those who communicate with authenticity and passion.
The Law of Listening - Effective communication requires active listening.
The Law of the Response - Your message is only as effective as the response it elicits.
The Law of Honesty - Be truthful and transparent in your communication.
The Law of the Environment - Create an environment that supports and encourages open communication.
The Law of Timing - Communicate at the right time and in the right way.
The Law of Patience - Effective communication requires patience and persistence.
The Law of Influence - Communication is a powerful tool for influencing others.
The Law of Authenticity - Communicate with genuine sincerity and conviction.
The Law of Relevance - Communicate ideas and messages that are relevant to your audience.
The Law of Inspiration - Communicate with passion and enthusiasm to inspire others.
The Law of Empathy - Effective communication requires empathy and understanding.
The Law of the Double Win - Effective communication should benefit both the sender and the receiver.

Insights:

The book emphasizes the importance of understanding your audience and tailoring your message to their needs and interests.
Effective communication requires active listening and responding appropriately to feedback.
Authenticity and transparency are essential for building trust and credibility in communication.
Communication can be a powerful tool for influencing others and inspiring change.
Creating a supportive and encouraging environment is crucial for effective communication.
Effective communication requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances.

[Bant · Rating 1 out of 5]

In case it wasn’t clear from my updates … I HATE THIS BOOK! And I hate the author.

I was originally going to give 2 stars because I think there are things that are useful. Plenty of people on here have found it helpful.

However, this guy can’t stop talking about how great he is or how many awesome people he has met. And some of those people are one or more of the following: war criminals, sexual predators, racists, homophobes. They are ex presidents after all. This tone doesn’t come off as inspiring. It comes off as that guy at the party that people dread talking to because he won’t shut up about himself.

Furthermore, there is little that is meaningful here. There are a lot of words. But they are mostly meaningless but trying to sound thoughtful. It’s empty calories. It’s manipulating you to feel inspired and giving you very little action. If you want to be a good communicator all you have to do is communicate by communicating.

Don’t worry though, you can hire this guy and his company. The last 10 pages are filled with all the information on how. So, honestly, why not spend more money to be expertly manipulated by a bunch of grifters that have made it their life’s work to appear aspirational.

Garbage. Pure garbage.

[Crystal Gayle Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. John Maxwell reads the audiobook himself, so it's like have lessons with him directly. He does a great job at compiling the information, separating it into sections and explaining how it applies to speaking. This involves speaking communication and not really written communication. I'm still going to buy the hardback, because I will want to go back and review some of the points.

Great read!

[Analie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Your most effective message is the one you live." And so it began - me underlining quote after quote that resonated with me and the style of communication I hope to develop. I love the combination of John Maxwell's values and his tools, which make this book both inspiring and practical. While a list of laws might sound boring, this book is anything but that. 5 stars!

[Jessica Nybeck · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book offers a comprehensive look at effective communication, extending beyond the realm of public speaking. The author shares not only actionable tips and tricks but also personal stories that enrich the reading experience. While there are moments when the narrative delves into intricate details that might feel excessive, the overall message is strong and impactful. Whether you're preparing for a presentation or simply want to engage more effectively in everyday conversations, this book provides practical insights to help you connect better with others. In summary, it's a solid resource for enhancing your communication prowess.

[Synthia Salomon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Catalyze action and add value by applying the fundamentals of effective communication.

Harvard Business Review reveals that effective communication is the number one skill you need to get promoted. Beyond the workplace, effective speaking is also one of the most surefire ways to build lasting relationships and accomplish your goals.

John C. Maxwell’s The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication teaches the principles that guarantee great communication. Apply them, and your message won’t just propel you forward – it’ll inspire other people to take action and improve their lives as well.

[Nathan Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not quite as refined as his 21 laws book but I’m still giving it five stars since it’s so practical and I’ll be referencing it frequently.

[Kristen Byrne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! The writing is engaging and the advice is practical and applicable. Highly recommended to anyone looking to improve their communication skills either personally or professionally.

[Jung]

Catalyze action and add value by applying the fundamentals of effective communication.

Few have described the dread of public speaking as aptly as American comedian Jerry Seinfeld. Quoting a study that listed public speaking as the worst fear of the average person, followed by death, he said people would rather be in the casket than deliver the eulogy at a funeral.

Yet everyone has something important to share – and the best way to transmit those messages is through public speaking, whether it’s at family gatherings, office meetings, workshops, community events, or political rallies.

On top of that, Harvard Business Review reveals that effective communication is the number one skill you need to get promoted. Beyond the workplace, effective speaking is also one of the most surefire ways to build lasting relationships and accomplish your goals.

In this book to John C. Maxwell’s The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication, you’ll learn the principles that guarantee great communication. Apply them, and your message won’t just propel you forward – it’ll inspire other people to take action and improve their lives as well.

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Becoming a credible messenger

A woman who’d tried and failed to stop her little boy from eating sugar took him to see Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi told them to return after three days. But when they did, Gandhi simply asked the boy to stop eating sugar.

Why had he made them wait three days for such a boring cure? Well, Gandhi said, he needed to give up his own addiction to sugar in order to instruct the boy with any conviction.

In other words, when the messenger is credible, the message becomes effective. Credibility starts with honesty from the inside. People intuitively sense when the message authentically reflects the person. Honesty definitely doesn’t mean presenting yourself as perfect. People will respect you for the things you’ve accomplished and love you for having the courage to share your blunders.

Another aspect your audience will notice is how comfortable you are in your own skin. Observe and learn as much as you can from great speakers you admire, but always stay true to your unique qualities and personality.

When you do speak, pick a subject you feel strongly about. This has a lot of advantages. First, you’ll be playing a field you know, and will likely have endless personal stories to draw on. Subjects you’ve mastered will also roll off your tongue with a lot more eloquence and conviction, which people connect with.

The law of credibility is the essential starting point on your journey to becoming an effective communicator. As much as possible, be authentic, self-aware, and speak to what you know – and you’ll be well on your way to engaging your core audience.

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Prepare, prepare, and prepare

Winston Churchill once described his adversary as never knowing what to say before he spoke, never knowing what he was saying while he spoke, and never being sure of what he’d said after he’d spoken.

Churchill understood the value of preparation, and his diligent efforts made him one of the greatest speakers of all time. So before taking on a speaking engagement, do your homework. You can’t tell your audience what you don’t know.

Here are a few things you can do as you prepare your speech.

You’ve already learned that you should pick a subject you’re passionate about to gain credibility. Now take this a step further by applying any new written material to your life to test its validity.

While working on your speech, make sure to customize it to the specific audience you’re addressing. The tailored message is your best message. After delivering your speech, reflect on it and adapt it for a universal audience. This universal message is the one that’ll stand the test of time. Keep adding to and editing your broader message as your knowledge expands.

Another thing to do as you prepare your speech is to build a picture of what you want your audience to perceive or accomplish when they receive your message. Do you want them to believe everything is possible? Are you on a mission to inspire them so that they treat themselves and others with dignity? Or maybe your intention is to empower them to live more authentically. Whatever your goal is, knowing what you want to accomplish will keep you focused on delivering a message that works.

Preparation has the added advantage of improving your knowledge. As you work, you’ll find new ideas you can use or save for future projects. Always be on the lookout for speaking opportunities to test your ideas and improve your delivery.

Through practice, you’ll know what to improve about your message and style. It’s also how you’ll meet other speakers, mentors, and collaborators. Contrary to popular belief, public speaking is a team sport. That’s because you need honest feedback. Your collaborators will hone your ideas and help you generate new ones. They can help with research and form the backbone of your projects.

Put in the time to practice, hone your material, and work with others, and you’ll soon master the laws of preparation and collaboration.

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Content is king

While Bill Gates was building Microsoft, he had an idea that seemed slightly odd in the ’90s era of celebrity tech founders. He felt so strongly about the subject that he wrote an essay about it, titled “Content is King.”

His prediction, published in 1996, was simple: those who created great content would ultimately overtake the tech founders. No wonder he’s still a prolific blogger!

So how do you create great content? Here’s a formula that works.

First, test your ideas to make sure they’re sound. You probably have countless things to say. But as much as you can, rigorously select only the most important things – the ones you believe your audience will really benefit from.

Next, summarize your thoughts into a single sentence. That sentence is your thesis. It should capture the essence of your message.

Once your principal thesis and supporting points are in place, draft an outline of what you’re going to say, starting with an introduction and ending with a call to action.

It’s important to capture the curiosity of your audience at the start of every speech. Begin with something interesting and memorable – like a story, question, or promise that they’ll learn something new.

Use your environment or audience members themselves to make your message relatable. Say, for instance, that you already have some influence. While this makes you credible, it can also make you inaccessible. In a situation like this, your audience might believe you – but think you have special abilities they don’t possess. It’s your duty to close that gap by finding common ground. Share a story of how you got to where you are. Put yourself in their shoes and imagine what they’re going through. You can also help close the mental gap by physically moving a little closer to your audience.

Another thing you should look out for is transitions. Use them like runners in a relay race, with one idea handing the baton to the other until your message crosses the finish line.

You can also inspire people’s imaginations by using picture words to color your message. When you heard about a relay race, did your mind immediately picture an actual race? Tricks like this can help explain an important concept or message.

Finally, add repetition to your skillset. Ever listened to Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech? It’s a great example of the melodic power that repetition can yield.

When your message is well researched, educational, interesting, and grabs the imagination of your audience, you’ll have perfected the law of content.

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Connecting with your audience

In the last section, you learned about the importance of great content. Now imagine carrying that great content into a Zoom call. But midway through the meeting, someone has to comfort a crying baby. Do you continue through the interruption, or pause to show concern?

That, of course, was a rhetorical question. Taking a minute to check if everything’s OK, and acknowledging the participant as an attentive carer, will build a deeper connection and make your message resonate more.

It’s the same reason you excelled at tenth-grade math, which was taught by your favorite teacher. They weren't necessarily better than other teachers in terms of subject matter. But you could feel that they cared. They paid more attention to your needs – and you responded with better grades.

Your goal is to build a transformational relationship with your audience. That often starts with a good first impression. So when you engage, be sure to be present. Give your audience your full attention. The moment you forget about yourself and establish a genuine connection, you start exuding charisma.

Everyone is gifted with their own capacity to reach people’s hearts. Some know how to use humor to make people laugh. Others are great storytellers. It comes naturally to other speakers to equip audiences with tools they can apply to improve their lives. Reflect and ask trusted partners what they think your communication strength is, and then amplify that superpower. Also, be excited about using your gift to change lives. Believing in your ability to help people will build anticipation among your audience.

Deliver your message with clarity, in simple terms your audience will understand. Don’t try to impress anybody. Instead, concentrate on transmitting your message. Vince Lombardi, the greatest coach in NFL history, once said his strategy was to knock the opponent down when his team had the ball – and to knock them down when his team was defending. Talk about clarity!

Visual aids can be great tools to support the clarity of your message. Often, the most accessible (and least expensive) aid is your own body language. Smiling, raising a hand to signal a pause, sitting down to make yourself smaller, and placing your hand on your chest are all ways to drive home your message.

You could also use a short video to start a talk or illustrate a point. Sixty percent of people are visual thinkers, and 80 percent of all sensory inputs have a visual element. When you create audio content, use sound effects and words that spark the listener’s imagination.

But remember, you’re not a performer. These devices are only useful if they can help you transmit your message. Your speech’s real power lies in your ability to connect, leverage your strengths, build anticipation, and deliver your message with clarity.

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The power of storytelling

Let’s take a moment to talk about stories. Specifically, how do you tell a story that will captivate your audience and amplify your message?

It turns out there’s a simple formula to this ancient human tradition. The building blocks are your hero, their goal, a conflict, and a resolution.

Take the play Hamlet. Hamlet is the hero, and his goal is to avenge his father’s death by killing his uncle. But he’s plagued by uncertainty. He succeeds, and then dies – the story is resolved. In The Odyssey, Odysseus accomplishes his goal of returning home by overcoming storms and monsters.

People identify with the hero of a story. This gives you an opportunity to make them feel, learn, and resolve conflicts, just as the hero does.

Storytelling is a compelling persuasive device. When you tailor a narrative to your audience’s needs and pique their interest, it can transform your message into something much greater than the sum of its parts.

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Using real-time feedback to improve delivery

To end, let’s go back to Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream.” One of the greatest speeches of all time wouldn’t have happened the way you know it if King hadn’t been good at getting real-time feedback. As he spoke on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 1963, he felt he could do better.

As King paused, he heard gospel singer Mahalia Jackson encourage him to tell the world about the dream he’d shared before at smaller events. Picking up this feedback, King soared into a climax that changed the course of history.

In short, King understood the law of the thermostat. Even before the nudge from Jackson, he’d read the crowd and felt they deserved more. So as you speak, gather feedback from your audience to switch things up or ride a wave.

This actually starts before you even begin speaking. Visit the room, hall, or theater where you’ll be presenting, and experience the lighting, seating arrangements, and acoustics. Study the distance between where you’ll be standing and your audience, and think about how to close the gap.

What’s your audience’s age group? Are you going to give an energetic performance, or have a conversation? If people have been forced to attend your event, you might need to warm them up before you dive into the esoteric stuff.

And when you start speaking, watch their faces – are they smiling, bored, or attentive? Let them stand up, move around, or take a bathroom break if they look tired. If you’re the fifth speaker, they may have been sitting too long. Get interactive to raise the energy levels and liven the mood. Add variety and excitement to your delivery to shake things up.

When you’re able to pick up on clues like King, and switch to a different gear mid-speech, you’ll realize you’re no longer talking at your audience – you’re having a conversation with them.

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Anyone can overcome fear or inexperience and become a powerful public speaker by learning the rules that govern effective communication. Before you start your public speaking journey, strive to live the values you preach – this will help you build credibility and talk with conviction.

Next, prepare yourself and your message through frequent practice and diligent research. That’s how you build excellent content. Delivered with emotion, this content will connect with listeners and inspire your audience to take action.

Your ultimate goal is to add value to people’s lives through your words and example. You can reframe their thoughts so they treat themselves and others with dignity, and to mobilize for the greater good.

[Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Had to read as part of a workshop. Appreciated the organizations of the tips and they were helpful. Felt a bit preachy at times.

[Mannclaudiu · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books I have ever read!

[Emily Wertz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book for any leader, whether it be in the classroom, corporate America, a volunteer organization, a church setting, or a nonprofit. I really appreciated this book because it was easy to read, and the concepts were simple, but hugely impactful if applied and practiced overtime!

[Srinivasan Nanduri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read and must follow..

**The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication: Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message** by John C. Maxwell is a practical guide to mastering communication in various contexts—whether personal, professional, or public. Maxwell distills his decades of experience into 16 foundational principles, offering actionable advice to help readers connect with others, convey their message effectively, and leave a lasting impact.

Below is a summary of the key laws outlined in the book:

### **1. The Law of Credibility**

> _"People buy into the communicator before they buy into the message."_

Credibility is the foundation of effective communication. To build trust with your audience, speak from a place of authenticity, integrity, and competence.

- **Example**: A politician with a history of broken promises struggles to persuade, no matter how strong their current message is.
- **Action**: Build credibility through consistent honesty, delivering on promises, and mastering your subject.
- **Tip**: Share personal anecdotes that demonstrate your integrity.

---

### **2. The Law of Connection**

> _"Communicators who connect with their audience give them a reason to listen."_

Great communication begins with understanding your audience. Speak to their needs, emotions, and experiences to create a genuine connection.

- **Example**: Martin Luther King Jr.’s _"I Have a Dream"_ speech resonated because he tapped into universal aspirations for equality.
- **Action**: Research your audience to understand their values, fears, and dreams.
- **Tip**: Use phrases like _“I understand how you feel”_ to show empathy.

---

### **3. The Law of Preparation**

> _"Preparation yields confidence; lack of it leads to anxiety."_

Effective communication is impossible without preparation. Maxwell emphasizes the importance of knowing your material, your audience, and the desired outcome.

- **Example**: TED speakers spend weeks rehearsing to ensure they’re concise and impactful.
- **Action**: Create an outline, rehearse aloud, and anticipate questions.
- **Tip**: Use the “rule of three”—divide your message into three key points for clarity.

---

### **4. The Law of Simplicity**

> _"Communicate to be understood, not to impress."_

Complex ideas should be communicated in a clear and simple manner. Simplicity enhances understanding and retention.

- **Example**: Steve Jobs famously explained the iPod as _“1,000 songs in your pocket,”_ making a complex device relatable.
- **Action**: Use simple language and analogies to explain your ideas.
- **Tip**: Test your message on someone unfamiliar with your topic.

---

### **5. The Law of Passion**

> _"People may hear your words, but they feel your attitude."_

Your enthusiasm for your message is contagious. Speak with energy and conviction to inspire and engage your audience.

- **Example**: A teacher passionate about their subject inspires students to learn, while a disinterested one fails to engage.
- **Action**: Identify what excites you about your message and communicate that enthusiasm.
- **Tip**: Smile, gesture naturally, and let your energy shine through.

---

### **6. The Law of Encouragement**

> _"Lift people up, and they’ll listen to you more closely."_

Encouraging your audience makes your communication more impactful. Show empathy and offer hope to foster positivity.

- **Example**: A manager commends an employee’s effort before providing constructive feedback, creating a positive tone.
- **Action**: Acknowledge your audience’s struggles and highlight their strengths.
- **Tip**: Use affirming statements like _“I believe you can do this.”_

---

### **7. The Law of Storytelling**

> _"Never underestimate the power of a story to make your point."_

Stories are powerful tools to captivate an audience and make your message memorable. Use anecdotes and narratives to illustrate your points.

- **Example**: Oprah Winfrey shares personal hardships to connect with her audience emotionally.
- **Action**: Frame your key message as a story with a beginning, middle, and end.
- **Tip**: Use relatable characters and vivid details.

---

### **8. The Law of the Listener**

> _"Great communicators are also great listeners."_

Understand feedback from your audience to adapt and refine your message.

- **Example**: A sales professional listens to a customer’s needs before proposing a solution, building trust and rapport.
- **Action**: Pause frequently to invite feedback and adjust your approach.
- **Tip**: Practice active listening—nod, maintain eye contact, and paraphrase what you hear.

---

### **9. The Law of Focus**

> _"If you try to communicate everything, you end up communicating nothing."_

Concentrate on one main idea to ensure your message is clear and actionable. Avoid overwhelming your audience with too much information.

- **Example**: Advertisements focus on one key benefit instead of listing multiple features.
- **Action**: Define your central message in a single sentence before expanding on it.
- **Tip**: Use visuals to reinforce your core idea without adding clutter.

---

### **10. The Law of Navigation**

> _"Take people on a journey, step by step."_

Provide structure and clarity to ensure they stay engaged and on track.

- **Example**: A coach lays out a clear plan for achieving fitness goals, breaking it into manageable milestones.
- **Action**: Start with an outline, then guide your audience logically through your points.
- **Tip**: Use transitions like _“Now that we’ve covered X, let’s move to Y.”_

---

### **11. The Law of the Big Picture**

> _"Help people see how your message fits into a larger vision."_

Your message should align with a larger purpose or vision. Show your audience how your ideas fit into a greater context.

- **Example**: Elon Musk connects Tesla’s mission to the broader goal of sustainable energy.
- **Action**: Show how your message aligns with universal values or long-term goals.
- **Tip**: Include phrases like _“This isn’t just about us—it’s about everyone.”_

---

### **12. The Law of Change**

> _"Adapt to your audience to stay relevant."_

Adapt your message based on the needs of your audience and the situation. Flexibility in communication ensures relevance and impact.

- **Example**: A speaker adjusts their tone and examples when addressing a youth group versus a corporate audience.
- **Action**: Watch your audience’s body language and tweak your delivery if needed.
- **Tip**: Prepare alternate ways to present your message based on audience responses.

---

### **13. The Law of Clarity**

> _"Ambiguity kills communication."_

Eliminate ambiguity and vagueness. Be specific about what you want your audience to understand or do.

- **Example**: A vague job posting fails to attract the right candidates. A clear description succeeds.
- **Action**: Be explicit about what you want your audience to think, feel, or do.
- **Tip**: Use bullet points or numbered lists to enhance clarity.

---

### **14. The Law of the Visual**

> _"People remember what they see more than what they hear."_

Visual elements enhance communication. Use slides, images, or gestures to reinforce your message and make it more engaging.

- **Example**: Charts and images in presentations make data more digestible and engaging.
- **Action**: Incorporate slides, props, or gestures to reinforce key points.
- **Tip**: Keep visuals simple and aligned with your message.

---

### **15. The Law of Humor**

> _"Laughter opens hearts and minds."_

Appropriate humor can disarm tension, build rapport, and make your message more relatable. Use it wisely and sparingly.

- **Example**: Stand-up comedians use humor to break tension and connect with their audience.
- **Action**: Add light, relevant humor to ease formality or illustrate a point.
- **Tip**: Avoid offensive or forced jokes—be natural.

---

### **16. The Law of Inspiration**

> _"The ultimate goal is to inspire action."_

The ultimate goal of communication is not just to inform but to inspire action. Motivate your audience to think, feel, or act differently.

- **Example**: Gandhi’s call for nonviolent resistance inspired millions to join the movement for independence.
- **Action**: End with a powerful call-to-action that resonates emotionally.
- **Tip**: Use phrases like _“Imagine what we can achieve together.”_

---

### **Action Plan for Application**

1. Choose one law to focus on each week and apply it in real-life communication situations.
2. Reflect on successful communicators in your life and identify which laws they embody.
3. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or friends on how well you connect and engage with your audience.

### **Memorable Quote to Inspire**

_"Communication is not just about what you say; it’s about what others understand and act upon."_ – John C. Maxwell

### **Conclusion**

Maxwell integrates these 16 laws into a cohesive framework for mastering the art of communication. He emphasizes that effective communication is not just about what you say but how you connect with your audience and inspire them to act. Through stories, practical tips, and personal insights, Maxwell provides a roadmap for becoming a more confident, effective, and influential communicator in any setting.

[Naomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m really starting to think I read too many business books, particularly John Maxwell books! While there was some new material in this, the greater majority I was already aware of.

[Samantha Balentyne · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book has alot of good material in it but really hard to get through. A lot is his personal situations and had a lot of fluff in it. Not for me but I was able to learn some things from it to use towards my relationships and communication with others.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, John Maxwell has written a great book! This one deviates slightly from leadership but still in John’s strength zone. I’ve rarely seen, heard, or met a communicator like John Maxwell. It’s great to read how he developed.

[Tami · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you are planning to become a public speaker, I think this book would be helpful. For anyone else just curious about communication....give it a pass.

[Bill Pence · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the latest in John Maxwell’s “Laws” series (Leadership, Teamwork, Growth, and now Communication). I always learn something from Maxwell’s books, and do a bit of speaking and teaching, so I was excited to read this book. Maxwell tells us that he wrote the book to help anyone give a talk to others. He writes that if you apply these laws, then you will make the most of your message, no matter the purpose of your communication, the size or scope of your audience, or the environment in which you speak.
The book includes a lot of helpful information regarding communication. Maxwell states that the Law of Connecting is by far the most important idea in the book.
Here are the laws and a takeaway or two from each one:
THE LAW OF CREDIBILITY: Your Most Effective Message Is the One You Live
• If you speak words you do not live, you lack authenticity and your communication will not be successful.
• What you repeatedly do tells others who you are.
THE LAW OF OBSERVATION Good Communicators Learn from Great Communicators
• Each of us will have a unique history of observing and learning from other communicators who are better than we are if we want to become good speakers.
• I’ve learned a different lesson from every great communicator I’ve observed. But here’s the one lesson I’ve learned from all of them: Great communicators always connect!
THE LAW OF CONVICTION The Stronger You Believe It, the More People Feel It
• Having convictions changes your life. Communicating with conviction changes other people’s lives.
• If you want to be a great communicator, your motivation for speaking must be to make a difference in the lives of people.
THE LAW OF PREPARATION You Cannot Deliver What You Have Not Developed
• The purpose of communication isn’t to impress your audience. It’s to empower your audience.
• Spectacular performance is always preceded by unspectacular preparation.
THE LAW OF COLLABORATION Some of Your Best Thinking Will Be Done with Others
• When you ask, “Can I?” the answer might be no. But when you ask, “How can I?” the answer almost always leads to yes.
• If you want to become the best communicator you can, don’t try to do it alone. Seek out others to help you.
THE LAW OF CONTENT When You Have Something Worth Saying, People Start Listening
• If people are clear on what you said, know what to do, and are inspired to do it, you will have added value to them, and they will walk away feeling helped and empowered.
• If you’re continually growing, you will never run out of content, and you will always have something worth saying.
THE LAW OF CONNECTING Communicators Know It’s All About Others
• If you focus on others and adding value to them, while being confident in yourself and your ability to help them, you will be able to connect.
• If you want to become a great communicator, you need to focus on the people in your audience and give them your best every time you deliver a message.
THE LAW OF LEVERAGE Good Communicators Lead with Their Strengths and Use Them Often
• When you find your strengths, you find your voice. From then on, your communication fits who you are. It becomes natural.
• To become the best version of yourself as a communicator, you must start with your strengths, use your talent, and add skills, knowledge, and practice to the mix.
THE LAW OF ANTICIPATION When You Can’t Wait to Say It, They Can’t Wait to Hear It
• It’s one thing to communicate to people because you have something valuable to say. It’s another to communicate with people because you believe they have value. That is the audience perspective you want to possess.
THE LAW OF SIMPLICITY Communicators Take Something Complicated and Make It Simple
• No matter your audience—whether they want to be engaged. They want to understand you easily and be able to do something positive with what you tell them. Don’t try to be impressive.
THE LAW OF VISUAL EXPRESSION Show and Tell Is Better Than Just Tell
• Whatever people see must support what they hear. If there is a disconnection between the two, the audience will become distracted and be taken out of the moment. And they won’t feel what you feel, think what you think, or laugh when you laugh.
THE LAW OF STORYTELLING People See Their Own Lives in Stories
• Great storytellers become the best salespeople, the most memorable leaders, the most engaging speakers, the best mentors, and the teachers we will remember for a lifetime.
• Do your best to find ways to incorporate humor into your speaking, and especially in your stories, because humor can do so many things to improve your communication.
THE LAW OF THE THERMOSTAT Communicators Read the Room and Change the Temperature
• Each of us possesses intuition in our area of gifting.
THE LAW OF THE CHANGE-UP Sameness Is the Death of Communication
• Good communicators understand the power of interaction.
• If you can turn your communication from a speech into an experience, it will become unforgettable.
THE LAW OF ADDING VALUE People May Forget What You Say, But They Never Forget How You Make Them Feel
• People are reluctant to receive anything from people they don’t like, so it’s important to be likable as a communicator. If people like you, they will listen to you, and they will allow you to add value to them. If they don’t like you, they will ignore you or discount your message.
• When the race we run is about others, then when they finish ahead of us, that’s a win for us.
THE LAW OF RESULTS The Greatest Success in Communication Is Action
• If your motive for speaking is anything other than adding value to people and moving them to take positive action that will help them, you’re missing the boat.
• I believe the best communicators help people to feel empowered and encouraged to act.

[Jendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

1. Law of credibility
-be transparent
-be consistent
-be a good example
-be confident
-trust is a person greatest asset
-people want to listen because they like you

2. Law of observation
-you can learn a lot from watching others
-connect with the audience/people

3. Law of conviction
-know your why
-believe in yourself
-believe in your message and your audience
-believe in the power of your words

4. Law of preparation
-good communication starts with good preparation
-what do I want the people to see
-what do I want the people to know
-what do I want the people to feel
-what do I want the people to do
-temptations to wing it can be great…and it gets you by but possibly not great

5. Law of collaboration
-can I be how can I
-have I seen the speaker live this message
-how has this message influenced my life
-what do I not know about this subject that I need to know
-what is the most important part of this message and why
-what do I need to do to improve this message

6. Law of content-

7. Law of connecting
-communication is all about others

8. Law of leverage -
-discover your strengths
-until you make peace with who you are, you’ll never be content with what you have
-what do I have that they want

9. Law of anticipation
-when you can’t wait to say it, they can’t wait to hear it

10. Law of simplicity
-Great communicators are great simplifiers
-clarity
-brevity not the number of words said, it’s the impact you make with the words you use
-get to the point
-take something complicated and make it simple

11. Law of visual expression
-visuals tell stories
-visual movement connects with the audience

12. Law of story telling
-it’s fun to tell a story

13. Law of the thermostat
-Read the room and change the temperature
-the success of what I say will be determined by the response of the people
-follow your intuition

14. Law of the change up
-sameness is the death of communication

15. Law of adding value
-People may forget what you say but they won’t forget how you made them feel
-live good values …you have something good to give
-add value to others
-if you help people get what they want, they will help you get what you want
-put customers first
-if you are kind and encouraging when giving corrective feedback , employees will work harder to make positive change
-if you make others feel important, they will help you accomplish your goals and lift your leadership load
-always put others first
-when leaders serve first, they add value
-Transformational is better than trans-actual

16. Law of results
-be committed to action yourself
-there is no success without action

[Tõnu Vahtra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Latest book from Maxwell (published 2023), written in his style so you know what to expect. I have read quite many of his books already so some of the points are becoming repetitive. Yet it kind of "feels good" as he has such easygoing and positive vibe in the books. Effective communication is so much more than just talking, yet it boils down to one most important aspect - training.

***The 16 Laws:****
THE LAW OF CREDIBILITY: Your Most Effective Message Is the One You Live
THE LAW OF OBSERVATION Good Communicators Learn from Great Communicators
THE LAW OF CONVICTION The Stronger You Believe It, the More People Feel It
THE LAW OF PREPARATION You Cannot Deliver What You Have Not Developed
THE LAW OF COLLABORATION Some of Your Best Thinking Will Be Done with Others
THE LAW OF CONTENT When You Have Something Worth Saying, People Start Listening
THE LAW OF CONNECTING Communicators Know It’s All About Others
THE LAW OF LEVERAGE Good Communicators Lead with Their Strengths and Use Them Often
THE LAW OF ANTICIPATION When You Can’t Wait to Say It, They Can’t Wait to Hear It
THE LAW OF SIMPLICITY Communicators Take Something Complicated and Make It Simple
THE LAW OF VISUAL EXPRESSION Show and Tell Is Better Than Just Tell
THE LAW OF STORYTELLING People See Their Own Lives in Stories
THE LAW OF THE THERMOSTAT Communicators Read the Room and Change the Temperature
THE LAW OF THE CHANGE-UP Sameness Is the Death of Communication
THE LAW OF ADDING VALUE People May Forget What You Say, But They Never Forget How You Make Them Feel
THE LAW OF RESULTS The Greatest Success in Communication Is Action

"People who focus on themselves seek to gain attention. Speakers who focus on content give out information. Communicators who focus on others make a connection."

"Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious and adding the meaningful."

“transformational leaders: See things others do not see. Believe things others do not believe. Say things others do not say. Feel things others do not feel. Do things others do not do. Receive things others do not receive.”

“your most effective message is the one you live. Anything else is just empty words. That is the Law of Credibility.”

[T. Laane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I sum this book up in the words of the Author: one might think that serving others will help them become successful - but actually it will help YOU become successful. It’s a typical Maxwell book, probably the 10th I have read from him. He loves is lists and he has a lot of unique stories that he has gathered from all around the world. Let me copy paste the story about management air balloon to the end of my review ;) But anyway, one thing he keeps constantly hammering home again and again in this book - IT IS NOT ABOUT YOU, it is about the audience. It is about the people You serve. And when he repeats that a 100th time from always-new-perspectives, one starts to finally really get it :) Thank You John, It has been nice knowing you in all Your books, and Your father too, in Your stories. Really glad You took so much time writing them!
***
A man is flying in a hot air balloon and realizes that he is lost. He reduces height and spots a man down below. He lowers the balloon further and shouts, "Excuse me. Can you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him half an hour ago, but I don't know where I am."
The man below says, "Yes. You are in a hot air balloon, hovering approximately 30 feet above this field. You are between 40 and 42 degrees north latitude, and between 58 and 60 degrees west longitude.
"You must be an engineer" says the balloonist.
"I am", replies the man. "How did you know?"
"Well..." says the balloonist. "Everything you told be was technically correct, but I have no idea what to make of your information and the fact is I am still lost."
The man below says, "You must be a Manager"
"I am", replies the balloonist. "How did you know?"
"Well..." says the man. "You don't know where you are, or where you are going. You made a promise which you have no idea how to keep, and you expect me to solve your problem. The fact is you are in the exact same position you were in before we met but now it is somehow my fault."
;)

[Brad Sarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Maxwell does an incredible job helping communicators understand that our primary task is to add value to the listener. The temptation in public speaking is often to look impressive, sound intelligent, and make it all about ourselves. But the most effective and enjoyable speakers prepare and deliver their content in a way that serves and helps their audience live better lives. And the key to doing this is through connection.

Of his 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication," here were my highlights:

1. Credibility - Your most effective message is the one you live
3. Conviction - The stronger you believe it, the more people feel it
4. Preparation - You cannot deliver what you have not developed
7. Connecting - Communicators know it is all about others
13. Thermostat - Communicators read the room and change the temperature

If you are a public speaker (or aspiring to be one) this book is essential!

A few other highlights:

- "People who focus on themselves seek to gain attention. Speakers who focus on content give out information. Communicators who focus on others make a connection." p128

-Charisma can be learned. "The Charisma Principle: People are interested in the person who is interested in them." p140

-"My advice is that you lead with your best connecting strength 99 percent of the time and return to it often when you speak." p152

-"Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious and adding the meaningful." John Maeda p191

-"The greatest success in communication is action." p286

[Glenn Plum · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful synthesis of many of the things John Maxwell has been writing about and saying over the years. It is a practical book. There are specific ways that any communicator can act that will make them more effective whether one on one, in a small group, or before an audience.
Obviously, this is one of John Maxwell’s “sweet spots.” He has made his major mark as a leadership guru but that has been possible because he is an effective communicator. He certainly remains true to his core value of wanting to add value to others in everything he does and helping people to communicate more effectively melds well with that desire.
There are elements in this book that are repetitive of other things he’s written. “Everyone Communicates, Few Connect” is ad case in point. 16 Undeniablee is sort of a summary statement of the principles that John has taught over the years.
I have read many of John’s books over the years and I am never disappointed. Since communication is such a major part of everyone’s life it is hard to imagine anyone who wouldn’t benefit by taking the time to read this book.

[Hanna Buklieieva · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I delved into the pages of "The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication," I found myself embarking on a profoundly humanistic journey that exceeded my expectations. This isn't just another book on communication skills; it's a roadmap to becoming a better communicator and, more importantly, a better person.

With every turn of the page, I was drawn deeper into the author's insights, woven together with relatable stories and keen observations. Each chapter felt like a revelation, unveiling the hidden intricacies of our interactions. The author's ability to articulate these nuances is nothing short of masterful.

In a world brimming with superficial conversations, this book shines as a beacon of authenticity. It urges us to step away from the noise and engage in dialogues that enrich both ourselves and others. It's a powerful reminder that every conversation, regardless of its duration, has the potential to leave a lasting impact.

This book has redefined my perspective on communication, and I'm certain it will continue to resonate with me for years to come.

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Surprisingly, good laws and advice for better communication communicated with sticky acronyms, simple lists, meaningful actions to try, and personal and relavent stories. I feel this is the type of book that can impact presentation skills different at different times in your path to become an excellent communicator. High school students have to give presentations showing how much they know, politicians have to give speeches to move communities to action, and as a scientist I have to communicate complex ideas and data for meaningful decisions to a variety of audiences. All these communication needs are discussed without isolating any group. Taking notes on communication styles that work for other scientists is my major next step to improve my communication skills and first step in applying these laws.

[Jared Daniel Jensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly loved this book! I think it’s one of the best self-help I’ve read in a long time, but I also am someone who is a teacher/speaker and communicator for a living— and I teach large groups in the summer, so there were a lot of relevant thoughts in here for me. John Maxwell is a great author who keeps things very simple, and honestly I don’t know how he keeps cranking out so many books! He’s the type of guy I want to be like one day and this book gives so many methods on how to empower future leaders and help communicate principles of success to them. It was cool he stepped back from his usual leadership idea and focused on communication and public speaking. Before I go teach in the summer I’m definitely going to try and listen to this one again!

[Kari Olfert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love most books honestly, and I do mostly read 4 star +.

If this book wasn't overdue, I'd tell you in detail why I appreciated it, but since I have to give an overview.

When I forgot what I was reading, I thought this was a book on public speaking and then he dove into basically knowing yourself and then moving along a quadrant to presenting better for others who are not like you, to be the more effective.

Then my brain started reading it like it was giving job interview tips.

Super universal.

I recommend this if you are able to get through non-fiction. It's a communication Bible and I'd agree with the title, The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication. 👍👍

[Rick Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

John C. Maxwell is a fantastic communicator, speaker, and coach. His new book, The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication is one of his best and should be on everyone's reading list. In 2010, Maxwell released Everyone Communicates, Few Connect. Both of these books can be used in concert with one another.

The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication is easy to read, filled with numerous examples, and can serve as a manual for communicators. As I mentioned previously, this should be on everyone's reading list, but certainly for anyone who stands in front of any size audience, this book should be required reading.

[Paige Gordon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book about communication written by one of the premier communicators of the age is almost guaranteed to be great. So it’s not surprise that I loved this book and found it to be incredibly value packed. John’s is not personally my favorite writing style (I get lost in too many lists sometimes), but his insight is battle tested and guaranteed to forge anyone who does the hard work of applying it, into a more effective communicator. If you’re looking for a one-stop resource to improve your skills in this area, this book should definitely be near the top of your list.

Favorite Quote: “When the race we run is about others, then when they finish ahead of us, that’s a win for us”

[Daniel Christensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

More gold from Maxwell. This book should be in the regular rotation for three groups of people: pastors, salespeople, and anyone in a leadership or management role who might have to run a meeting.

For pastors: in your role as teacher and preacher you are a vocational communicator with the single most important message in human history. Yet by and large our seminaries fail to teach us how to communicate well. We can parse Greek and know the history and theology of preaching, but we can’t connect with our congregation. Maxwell is here to help.

For salespeople: you need to learn how to talk to people. Enough said.

For leaders and managers: see salespeople.