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Message Box

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Developing Your Message Box

To begin, you need to know which unified message you want to convey – regardless of the audience. A useful way of thinking about communication is the “message box.” It contains one to three key messages that drive all your communications. If you’ve digested the earlier chapters in Leading at Light Speed, then you know where to look first: at your purpose, core values and vision. Those speak to the impacts and outcomes you’re trying to achieve and should be the heart of your message.

For example, your message box might be that “our highest priority is our customers’ and employees’ safety.” If someone asks you what you’re doing to deal with financial setbacks, the first thing out of your mouth should be “our highest priority is our customers’ and employees’ safety.” Every communication stays within the message box. Staying in the box is hard work. It can feel repetitive and creatively stifling. But the effort is worth it in terms of the consistency and trust building.

Remember that your message box should contain 1-3 simple messages. These are the things you would want every one of the groups listed above to hear. Don’t try to customize your message to fit a specific group. Over time, people will hear different messages, and they’ll perceive you and your company as opportunistic or disingenuous. On the other hand, if all your communications are driven by your company’s purpose, core values and vision, people will sense the level of commitment and integrity.

For example, the message box for a company that specializes in analyzing key indicators of future performance of publicly traded companies might be: “Our vision is to be a world leader in helping investors to realize long-term yields on their investments. Our core values of innovation and integrity guide us in everything we do.” It can be that simple.

Tips for Improving Business Communication

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Pass the Straight Talk® communication book around at work to improve the quality of communication.

Order a Straight Talk® communication workshop for your organization. Workshops can be crafted to focus on communication styles, managing decisions, or resolving conflicts.

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