I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “Hi, I’m dealing with a little issue here. I wonder if you have any communication advice.” Thankfully, rarely do we see PR disasters as large as the ones recently in the news. Rather, when stuff happens, frequently we are dealing with an issue and not a crisis. On the list of things to do during "an issue" is communication. Without a proper communication response, issues can grow a life of their own and become a crisis of reputation. The goal of strategic communication during an issue is to be … [Read more...]
Getting started is the hardest part. Communication plans work!
It seems to me that there are a few common reasons that stop leaders from getting started on improving their organization's communication. After reflecting upon these, it also occurred to me that there is one common solution. Developing a communication plan is the essential starting point. Let's examine a few possible obstacles that you may face as you contemplate how to improve your organization's communication efforts - and the reasons why I encourage you not to let these obstacles stand in your way! 1."I don't have time." Believe it or … [Read more...]
A focus on leadership communication is essential part of the job
Can you think of a time in your work life when you weren’t in the loop on information that you needed to do your job? How did that feel? Most people would say, “Not so good.” Ok, now think about how communication could have supplied a simple remedy. Just as communication is foundational to our individual professional lives, effective leadership communication is foundational to effective organizations, too. Admittedly, your leadership communication will reflect your beliefs about leadership style. Personally, I think of it as the type of … [Read more...]