As a communications expert for the past twenty years, I have witnessed the digital revolution and its impact on how we communicate.
Suddenly, you who were once hidden from the media, are now called to discuss everything from your daughter's soccer game to the fate of Goldman Sachs.
You'd better know how to discuss it! Whatever you say will be circulating in cyberspace for years. An off-the-cuff remark, a tacky blog post, or an inferior YouTube video will haunt you. It sticks!
While the world has changed, many of the qualities needed to be an effective communicator have not. Don't be fooled by the deceptive ease of delivering your message. Doing it well is an art!
Tips for the Taking
So before you give a presentation, grant an interview, or are asked for a quote, remember to take yourself through the following steps:
• Locate your message. What makes it innovative, topical or newsworthy? Pull us in with that opening thought. Grab us!
• Decide on 3-5 key points. They must be diverse, yet support your original objective.
• Articulate your key points so that they guarantee the desired response and subsequent action you want the listener to take.
• Keep us focused on the intention of your message.
• Consider your audience. What are their rational/political/ and emotional motivators? Know how to shape your communication to answer your audience's needs.
• Be in touch with your own enthusiasm. Use your voice and your body to support and color your most important thoughts. Persuade your audience to take the action you suggest.
• Back your key messages with solid evidence. Do the work; forget winging it.
• Influence your audience by providing benefits! Offer a better alternative, an enterprising insight, a practical and affordable solution.
Get in on the Conversation
If you are a thought leader with fresh solutions and vibrant ideas ante up and become a voice we can listen to and trust.
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