One of the most important parts of communication is the first and overall impression you give to your members, the public and other organisations. Ultimately positive impressions rely on gaining and maintaining respect for your role through a good appearance, a professional attitude and effective communication skills that help build strong relationships.
Considerations for Effective Communication
Ensure the use of different communication approaches and types of language for different audiences and situations. When developing a communication plan, calendar and individual communication pieces for various members and non-member audience groups, it is recommended to clarify the following areas.
Who – audience of the communication
Demographics and communication preferences
Internal or external audience
Level of formality and relationship with the audience
Language skills and audience size
Why – reason for the communication
Key messages and urgency
Required actions and future considerations
What – what we are going to communicate
Content and simplicity
Official information and duplication
How – best form of the communication
Target audience preferences and adaptation
Communication methods and channels
Balance of communication elements and opt-out options
When – best time to communicate
Timing and conflicting communications
Urgency and follow-up
Where – where to communicate
In-person, online, or blended communication
Best in-person location and facilities
Travel distance for in-person information