This Element is an excerpt from In the Line of Fire: How to Handle Tough Questions...When It Counts (9780131855175), by Jerry Weissman. Available in print and digital formats.

 

Powerful lessons in answering tough questions from the legendary “Stormin’ Norman,” Desert Storm commander Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf.

 

During the 43 days of the 1991 Gulf War, General Norman Schwarzkopf held only about half a dozen press conferences, and each was very, very brief. Despite such minimal exposure, “Stormin’ Norman” became an instant global celebrity. Why? In each session, he exhibited complete command and control in answering the journalists’ questions. He served as a role model for every proper Q&A technique….