Measuring outputs effectively
Outputs and outcomes are both essential components of a communication programme, but they serve different purposes. Outputs refer to the tangible activities and deliverables produced, such as media coverage, social…
Using research and data to decide on approach and tactics
Research and data play a central role in shaping communication programmes and campaigns. They provide a foundation for understanding audiences, evaluating trends, and selecting the right approach to achieve meaningful…
Connecting goals, objectives, outcomes and measurements
A well-structured programme or campaign requires clear alignment between goals, objectives, outcomes, and measurements. Goals provide direction, objectives define the specific steps needed, outcomes indicate success, and measurements ensure accountability. …
Writing Objectives For Better Plans That Drive Results
A plan needs a clear starting point, and for communication, or project plans, objectives provide the foundation. They establish direction, define success, and ensure efforts remain focused and measurable. Without…
How to Build a Strong Communication Plan That Works
A communication plan is a critical tool for any communicator. It serves as a roadmap, ensuring that messaging is strategic, targeted, and aligned with organisational goals. Without a structured plan,…
Build Effective Project Plans Without All the Answers
Communicators are often required to build programme and campaign plans well in advance. However, they rarely have all the necessary information at the outset. This is due to a mix…
Making Your Brief Work Harder for Your Communication Project
Communicators are often excellent at shaping narratives and delivering messages. However, when it comes to briefing their own teams on projects, campaigns, or programmes, clarity is often lacking. A poorly…
4 Stages of Project Management
Communicators often find themselves chasing short-term outputs dictated by leadership. While these outputs may provide a sense of accomplishment, they do not always contribute to meaningful progress. Without a structured…
A Stakeholder relationship tool kit
Wishing for strong stakeholder relationships without investing time, effort, and meaningful actions is an unrealistic approach. Positive and strong relationships require intentionality and consistent commitment. But what does a strong…
A Guide to Measuring Stakeholder Relationships for Communicators
Building and strengthening stakeholder relationships is an essential task for communicators. These relationships provide the foundation for trust, collaboration, and long-term success. However, how can communicators assess whether their relationship-building…
Actionable Steps for Building Strong Stakeholder Relationships
A strong relationship with a stakeholder can be vital to success. For communicators, the quality of relationships with stakeholders can make or break their ability to deliver meaningful outcomes. Stakeholders…
3 common stakeholder challenges and how to deal with them
Stakeholder relationships are at the heart of any communication function, yet they often come with challenges that lead to tension and frustration. These challenges can make it difficult for communicators…
The Power of Systems in Stakeholder Communication
Effective communication with stakeholders is a cornerstone of a successful communication function. While external communication often garners the most attention, (internal) stakeholder communication is equally critical to organisational success. Without…
What happens when communicators become trusted advisors
Communicators are often regarded as the bridge between organisations and their stakeholders. But is that enough? To truly influence outcomes, communicators must aim to become trusted advisors to leadership. This…
Converting intangible value into a stakeholder discussion
Engaging stakeholders effectively is one of the most frustrating challenges communicators face. While discussions around tangible metrics such as revenue, market share, or engagement rates are often straightforward, conversations about…
Defining and Demonstrating Value
Value and impact are two of the most critical outcomes communicators strive to achieve, yet they often remain elusive and intangible. Unlike metrics such as revenue or audience reach, value…
Building trust through effective communication
Trust is not just a desirable value — it is essential for effective communication. For organisations, trust-building is the cornerstone of meaningful connections with stakeholders, internal teams, and customers. Without…
Striking the Balance Between Co-Ownership and Autonomy
Co-ownership of the master communication plan is essential for aligning organisational objectives with the expertise of communication teams. Stakeholders bring invaluable insights, ensuring the plan reflects broader business priorities and…
Why does communication matter for brands and organisations
Communication is fast becoming a hidden function for many brands and organisations. It is often treated as a reactive tool, dusted off only when a crisis strikes or an issue…
Preparing your master communication plan for the new FY
A master communication plan is an essential blueprint for guiding all communication efforts throughout the year. It serves as the strategic framework that outlines your goals, the key messages you…