5 key points every successful communication strategy needs to have
No two communication strategies are the same, but when thinking about creating one, the process should be a one-size-fits-all approach, which is why we have gathered five tips (originally shared on the Forbes Communication Council) to help you create successful communication strategies:
Tip number one — What is the purpose of my communication? Finding a common and clear purpose keeps the whole team on track. Here are some questions you should be able to answer to help you find your communication objectives: who is my target? Why them? What will my message be? How will I get this message to my target? Which channels will I use to carry my message?
Tip number two — Who is my target audience for this message? There are several audiences for specific communication messages, hence defining the exact group of people that needs to hear your message is important.
Tip number three — How will my message be communicated? After defining your target audience, the next step is to figure out where that target audience is. Is it social media or a newsletter? Or a blog post? Or perhaps the media. The more specific with your channels, the more engagement your message will have as you will reach those intended to be reached/already interested people.
Tip number four — When is the best time to communicate? This tip is very important, as communicating a Christmas special in October will not affect as communicating it a couple of weeks before Christmas. Our message could be ready today, but it could only make sense to communicate in three weeks. Is there any chance that the message could be communicated today and then again in two or three weeks afterward? Consequently, preparing a crisis communication plan of time is imperative to make sure it is thoroughly thought after and not strategized under the clock.
Tip number five — Who will be responsible to communicate our message? Lastly but just as important is who will be carrying our message. Will it be the CEO or the communications department? Is it an HR crisis, so perhaps the HR team is best suited to communicate?
By solving and answering these five questions you will undoubtedly be able to create a solid communication plan. Are you ready to tackle your next — successful — communication strategy?
