What are the best practices for messaging that aligns with your organization's strategy?

1 Know your purpose

Before you craft any message, you need to have a clear understanding of why you are communicating, what you want to achieve, and how it supports your organization's strategy. Your purpose should guide your tone, content, and format of your message. For example, if your purpose is to inform your employees about a new policy, you might use a formal email with a clear explanation of the rationale and the benefits. If your purpose is to inspire your customers to take action, you might use a catchy slogan, a compelling story, or a call to action.

2 Know your audience

Another key factor for effective messaging is knowing who you are communicating with, what they care about, and how they prefer to receive information. You need to tailor your message to suit your audience's needs, interests, and expectations. For example, if your audience is a group of investors, you might focus on the financial performance, the competitive advantages, and the future opportunities of your organization. If your audience is a group of potential customers, you might emphasize the value proposition, the customer testimonials, and the social proof of your product or service.

3 Know your channel

The way you deliver your message can also influence how it is perceived and received by your audience. You need to choose the most appropriate channel for your message, depending on your purpose, audience, and resources. For example, if your message is urgent, time-sensitive, or confidential, you might use a phone call, a text message, or a direct message. If your message is complex, detailed, or visual, you might use a presentation, a report, or a video. If your message is interactive, collaborative, or engaging, you might use a webinar, a workshop, or a survey.

4 Know your feedback

One of the most important aspects of effective messaging is getting feedback from your audience. You need to measure the impact, the outcome, and the response of your message, and use it to improve your future communication. For example, you can use surveys, polls, analytics, or comments to gather feedback from your audience. You can also ask for feedback from your colleagues, your managers, or your mentors to get different perspectives and insights on your message.

5 Know your style

Finally, you need to pay attention to your style of communication, which includes your language, your tone, your voice, and your body language. Your style should reflect your organization's culture, values, and identity, as well as your own personality and professionalism. For example, you can use simple, clear, and concise language to avoid confusion and ambiguity. You can use positive, respectful, and confident tone to build trust and rapport. You can use expressive, consistent, and authentic voice to convey emotion and passion. You can use appropriate, relaxed, and attentive body language to reinforce your message and show interest.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?