Business Matters March 2018 | Page 11

EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
Key messaging is important for routine communications with external audiences . Successful stakeholder conversations are strategic , provide clarity and are concise in their delivery . Staying on point and on topic with important information helps ensure a consistent message is received . By following this basic formula , a company can achieve their desired results with the use of key messaging .
INTERNAL CONTINUITY
Internal key messaging can be utilized to maintain organizational alignment , in terms of information sharing . Misinformation in the workplace , also known as the rumor mill , can occur when information is shared incorrectly , only a portion of the message is received , the intended message is misunderstood or simply taken out of context . Key messaging allows for accurate distribution of information throughout an organization and can help curtail the corporate rumor mill .
INTERACTIVE DIALOGUE
Key messaging can seem restrictive at times , but we assure you – it is the exact opposite intended to assist corporate leadership in communicating efficiently and effectively . Using talking points lessens the likelihood of saying too much or too little . Key messages allow for strategic and interactive dialogue that result in better communication and enhanced business relationships . Most importantly , practicing talking points can help build confidence and achieve continuity in delivery .
COMBATING MISINFORMATION
Unfortunately , key messaging is most often required to address unconfirmed false reports or to combat public misinformation . Half-truths , fabrication and rumors can be detrimental to a business and bring about a potential crisis if not managed expeditiously . These misrepresentations of the truth can spread rampantly via social media , traditional news outlets , group text messages , and word of mouth . Appropriate use of key messaging in a crisis situation can help manage misinformation , speak to public concerns and circulate factual information . With consistent delivery , the correct information will begin to permeate conversations and stakeholder trust can begin to be re-established .
Regardless of the business context or situation your company is managing , key messaging is a critical tool that can assist with corporate communications , establishing and improving business relationships , or addressing immediate needs during a crisis situation .
Contributed by :
DOREEN HARRELL , APR PRESIDENT , KCS | PR
KCS Public Relations ( KCS | PR ) was founded in 2002 and our work reflects fifteen years of experience and expertise in the field of public relations . Connecting and relationship building define WHO we are , WHAT we do and HOW we communicate . In this ever-changing digital era , connecting is getting more challenging . KCS | PR believes relationships are built and maintained when we communicate effectively , make authentic Connections and have meaningful interactions . For more information , please visit our website at
www . kcspublicrelations . com .
kcspublicrelations . com doreen @ kcspublicrelations . com P : 361 884 8890
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