That is how one can successfully plan your subsequent communication in 5 minutes
What do you think of when you think of the great leaders of the world? Often they have inspired people or organizations to achieve greatness. Or a rousing speech that delivered a convincing message. The fact is, many great leaders are great communicators too.
In organizations, the best leadership communicators realize their vision in a way that connects the needs of employees with the priorities and business goals of the company. Not only do they plan how they will communicate, but they also make sure they are delivering a strategic message that inspires employees to take positive action.
A methodical approach to developing key messages
I remember a time as a communications director at McDonald & # 39; s, when I was sitting in a "war room" with external communications colleagues and various executives. We were planning communications on a problem that related to the Golden Arches at the time. We discussed the situation, discussed the facts, weighed options, and mapped the messaging and communication approach so that when we left the room a few hours later, each leader could proceed and deliver their part of the plan.
Building on that experience and our work with a number of clients, I have developed a tool that has evolved over the past 20 years in business – our messagemap ™ Methodology. This is a strategic, methodical approach to developing a central news platform that can be delivered in a clear, credible, and consistent manner.
Every news platform begins with a main news story – or elevator speech – backed by additional news, data, and stories for consistent communication across different channels. The main message is a brief snapshot of the topic and what is going on in a language that is easy to remember and repeat. Ideally, your audience will say, "Tell me more" to open the door to more detailed information.
Take 5 minutes to develop your daily communication
Strategic news development can really pay off in consistent communication when it counts. This can also apply to day-to-day communication if, as you tackle your next communication challenge, you only take five minutes to consider:
- Result – What would you like to achieve at the highest level? What is the business outcome you are aiming for? Define it as precisely as possible.
- audience – Are you communicating with an individual or a group? What is your relationship What perspective could you have and what information do you need? The more you know, the better you can influence audiences. What should they do in the end?
- Messages – Think about the “who, what, when, where, why and how” of your communication. Adult learners want to know the "what" first and then the "why". Make sure you state your intention and be direct and caring, especially when you are tackling difficult problems.
- tactics – Is the message best delivered face-to-face, one at a time, by email, or otherwise? Consider the limitations and potential implications of each option.
- Measurement – How do you rate how well your message is received? Body language or verbal response? Other feedback mechanisms? One way is to analyze questions that employees ask. If they're happy and asking how a new situation might work, your message will get through. When they question your assumptions or want to take a step back, you will be able to communicate better.
A methodical approach to planning strategic messages ensures that leaders at all levels are aligned and speak consistently with one voice. It is also the basis for tailor-made, consistent communication to reach key audiences.
How can you use this method to get the business results you want?
– David Grossman
A more focused communication can only take five minutes. Plan your communication, be it for a person, a group or an organization. Click the image below to download your free tool – Take 5 ™ Planning Template.
