The highest powered people I have worked for want simple explanations, quickly and repeatedly.

One very demanding gentleman I worked for over a number of years would often ask the same questions at meeting after meeting. He confided late in our relationship that he challenges subordinates repeatedly to see if they will hold their ground, or if they waffle or shift their explanation. If a subordinate waffles, that subordinate is given less responsibility than a subordinate that was consistent. It was a trust but verify situation. If you were consistent but wrong it was worse than waffling.

Consistent, concise and CORRECT is the aim. Express the big picture answer in a snapshot, with backup details as needed. Much like memes.

The highest powered people I have worked for want simple explanations, quickly and repeatedly.

One very demanding gentleman I worked for over a number of years would often ask the same questions at meeting after meeting. He confided late in our relationship that he challenges subordinates repeatedly to see if they will hold their ground, or if they waffle or shift their explanation. If a subordinate waffles, that subordinate is given less responsibility than a subordinate that was consistent. It was a trust but verify situation. If you were consistent but wrong it was worse than waffling.