Effective and active listening are important elements of communication.
Integrated Marketing Communications ensures that all of forms of communications, such as business communication solutions and strategic business communications, are carefully linked together to work in complete harmony. We’ve all been frustrated and perhaps inspired on both ends of communicating our message through these elements:
- Internal vs. External
- Formal vs. Informal
- Official vs. Unofficial
- Vertical vs. Horizontal
- Written vs. Oral
- Verbal vs. Non-Verbal
Every one of these elements is an important tool when communicating. When it comes to the R7 Communication phase of our process (Step 5), we like to concentrate on the “Who” and the “Why” of the communication cycle.
The “Who” of Communication
We use the Power of Who, written by Bob Beaudine, to execute these communication principles. In his book, Beaudine illustrates that the best things in life are people: family, friends, and occasionally, our neighbors. The next best thing is helping families, friends, and neighbors. Obtaining material things, such as cars, houses, and boats, is the furthest thing away from feeling productive and having a fulfilled life. As Christian, we long to glorify our God with our talents and our abilities, so having our identity in material objects is trite and empty.
The Best Way to Communicate Who We Are
The best way to communicate who we are to our family, friends and neighbors is through our personal vision statement. The best way to communicate our vision is through our passions. The most effective way to communicate our passions is uncovering and understanding our passions, applying rigor to that passion and developing a personal vision statement. Having our personal vision statement and strategy for our life is the ultimate prize.
Vision brings clarity and understanding to our everyday actions and behavior which leads down a path to a productive fulfilled God-inspired life. Communicating your vision to friends, family, neighbors and people you meet everyday is the fastest most effective way for people to understand who you are and how you can help them or they can help you. Your personal vision statement is the world series, Stanley Cup, and super bowl of communicating your “why” to the world.
“If you really want to pursue a worthy goal or make a significant change in your life, don’t go external in your approach, go internal.” Bob Beaudine
The Biggest Problem
I once asked my senior video editor and a professional hockey player the same question and they both came back with the same answer. I asked the video editor “What is the biggest problem with video editing?”. I asked the professional hockey player “What is the biggest problem with professional hockey?” They both answered. Communication.
Communicating your individual vision or organizational vision through any of the above channels is one of the most impactful forms of integrated marketing communications when dealing with the modern Christian world. Believing in your personal or organizational vision moves from the neocortex of the brain to the limbic system part of the brain. Once you believe and engage in the limbic system, there is a physiological emotional response. This response engages belief and commitment into your everyday behavior.
The best things in life are free. The best things in life are not things. The value of family, friends, and faith points us to the realization that what matters most in life is all wrapped up in our identity with Christ and how we communicate our passions to inspire people, especially when your vision glorifies God. -Anonymous
The “Why” of Communication
Being passionate about something is what motivates us to pursue it and communicate it with belief. No emotions, no activity! Abraham Maslow (1976) stated that all human beings are trying to achieve a sense of importance, a sense of significance, and have a high need to feel capable. In Lee Iacocca’s book Where Have All the Leaders Gone? (2008), he pointed out that humans have a need to feel significant and useful leaders must create a culture that inspires and moves associates to pursue goal attainment-both theirs and the organizations.
Yes there are many books written on the best practices and elements to communicating. I have personally read many of them, and the techniques are outstanding. I have also been around some of the most inspirational people in the world, and they all have started with communicating their “Why” to the world.
“No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the one who enlisted him.” – 2 Timothy 2:4 ESV
Here’s How We Can Help
M is Good has developed a new tool birthed from decades of experience working within organizations of all sizes and types in developing internal and external integrated marketing communications and branding initiatives. This assessment tool is inspired by Harvard Business Review, Gallup Research, Speed of Trust, and the Bible; therefore, the assessment takes a Christian holistic view of the entire organization, going beyond measuring personalities and behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is understanding the audience important in communication?
A: Understanding the audience helps ensure messages are relevant, meaningful, and engaging. When communicators know the needs, challenges, and interests of their audience, they can create stronger connections and improve overall communication outcomes.
Q: How does communication support organizational growth?
A: Effective communication aligns teams, strengthens relationships, and reinforces organizational objectives. By clearly communicating goals, values, and expectations, organizations can increase engagement, improve decision-making, and create a stronger foundation for long-term growth.
Q: What are common barriers to successful communication?
A: Common barriers include unclear messaging, inconsistent information, assumptions, and lack of active listening. These challenges can create misunderstandings and reduce effectiveness, making it important to establish clear and intentional communication practices.
Q: How can leaders become better communicators?
A: Leaders can improve communication by listening actively, communicating with clarity, and connecting messages to purpose. Consistently sharing vision and expectations helps build trust while encouraging stronger engagement throughout the organization.
Q: Why is active listening essential in communication?
A: Active listening helps people understand perspectives, identify concerns, and build stronger relationships. By focusing on understanding rather than simply responding, communicators create trust and foster more productive conversations and collaborations.
Q: How does communication influence organizational culture?
A: Communication shapes how people interact, collaborate, and perceive organizational values. Clear and consistent communication reinforces culture, strengthens alignment, and helps create an environment where employees feel informed, valued, and connected.
Q: What is the difference between internal and external communication?
A: Internal communication focuses on employees, leadership, and organizational operations, while external communication targets customers, donors, partners, and the public. Both must work together to create a consistent and trustworthy brand experience.
