A recent study found that a majority of CEOs believe “defining the voice, message, and mission of the company” is their responsibility. By acting as strategic advisors, communication professionals can provide valuable guidance to leaders on how to achieve these goals.
A HarrisX/Ragan CEO-Communicators Competencies Survey found that 60% of CEOs say they must define the voice of the organization and 59% reported that speaking to stakeholders is their responsibility.
Here are three key steps to begin developing your organization’s voice:
1. Learn about your audience
How does your audience expect you to engage with them? Are they looking to mostly be entertained or informed by you? Asking questions like these will help you create the framework to build your unique voice.
2. Define your personality
Once you understand what your audience is expecting, then you can start becoming more detailed. Explore the type of language you want to use (simple, serious, insider, humorous), the tone (humble, direct, scientific, personal), and purpose (inform, educate, activate).
3. Put it in writing
Write a guideline for the voice you develop. Think of it as a stylebook that will be a reference for everyone in the organization. Treat it as a living document that will evolve as the organization does.