Writing a Communications Strategy

Developing a strategy of communication isn’t an exact science – rather, look at it as you would art. A particular task can be approached with different strategies and different methodologies. There is not one correct way of going about it, although one strategy may be more effective than another.

However, when coming up with a strategy of communication, the following guide must be utilized and its parts taken into consideration:

1. Objectives

When noting down your objectives, make sure that the points are driven by your organization rather than just communications. This means that the strategy of communication isn’t seen as an end in itself or done for the mere purpose of communicating, rather it is developed so that the business or company is able to achieve its core objectives. Your objectives should be aligned with and reinforced by the mission, vision and values of the company; therefore, whatever methodology that you opt for should be fitting and appropriate to the organization.

2. Audience

Identifying your audience and knowing their requirements will help you create a strategy of communication that is effective and appropriate. Know your staff members and what they need. What kind of methodologies will they appreciate and participate in? What do they want out of their work and the company? Creating platforms in which you will be communicating will take time, a re-direction of resources, and may even cost money. This then means that choosing the appropriate strategy will lead to less wastage of time, money and resources, and prevent miscommunication, frustration and confusion.

3. Message

Consistency and strategic targeting are extremely vital when creating messages to your team. Make sure to have three to five main points that you want to emphasize. Be clear, concise and straightforward so that you are sure that each and every staff member understands what you are saying and what is expected of them. Make an impact by being transparent, honest and human – after all, the stories that truly make an impact are those that truly feel genuine and relatable.

4. Tools

Pinpoint the strategy of communication, tools and activities that you think are the best ones to use when you want to communicate with your staff. You can either come up with these tools by yourself or you may also ask your employees to get a better insight as to what activities they would like to participate in.

5. Resources and Timeline

Before undertaking any communication strategy, make sure that you have the necessary resources and time needed to fulfil the requirements of the said method. Never make promises that you will be unable to fulfil. Instead, deliver what you promise during the time that you have promised that you would be delivering and set appropriate levels of expectations. Always note your reasons for wanting to re-direct resources to your cause and why you need the amount of time that you state.

6. Evaluation

After you have employed your strategy, make an assessment of its effectiveness of failure. Ask your staff members open questions or prompt them to share their ideas about your strategy. Discuss the results of the activity and consider amending your strategy should you decide to use it again in the future.

Some of the questions you can ask include:

1. What works and what doesn’t work?
2. What did the activity lack?
3. What did you like about the activity and what do you want to see more of?
4. How often do you want to have this activity?
5. Is there any information that you wanted that you did not get from the activity?