How can you find inspiration for strategic communication?

1 Read and watch widely

One of the best ways to find inspiration for strategic communication is to expose yourself to different sources of information and entertainment. Reading books, articles, blogs, newsletters, and reports can help you learn new ideas, perspectives, and styles. Watching videos, documentaries, movies, and shows can help you understand how to use storytelling, visuals, and emotions to engage your audience. You can also look for examples of strategic communication in action, such as speeches, campaigns, presentations, and social media posts.

2 Use strategic communication models

Another way to find inspiration for strategic communication is to use frameworks and tools that can help you plan, design, and evaluate your messages. Strategic communication models can help you define your goals, identify your audience, craft your key messages, choose your channels, and measure your impact. Some of the most common models are the RACE model, the SMART model, the OASIS model, and the PESO model. Use these models as guides or templates to structure your communication process and outcomes.

3 Brainstorm with others

A third way to find inspiration for strategic communication is to collaborate with others who can offer feedback, insights, and suggestions. Brainstorming with your colleagues, clients, partners, or mentors can help you generate new ideas, test your assumptions, and refine your messages. You can also seek inspiration from your target audience, by conducting surveys, interviews, focus groups, or social listening. By involving others in your communication process, you can gain valuable insights and perspectives that can enhance your messages.

4 Experiment with different formats

Another way to find inspiration is to experiment with different formats and mediums that can suit your message and audience. Depending on your goals and resources, you can choose from a variety of formats, such as text, audio, video, graphics, or interactive elements. You can also use different mediums, such as email, website, blog, podcast, webinar, social media, or press release. By experimenting with different formats and mediums, you can find the best way to convey your message and attract your audience.

5 Reflect on your experiences

Review your previous communication projects and analyze what worked well and what didn't. You can also draw from your personal or professional stories and anecdotes that can illustrate your points or connect with your audience. By reflecting on your experiences, you can find inspiration from your own successes and failures, and use them to improve your communication skills.

6 Seek feedback and improvement

A final way to find inspiration for strategic communication is to seek feedback and improvement from others and yourself. Ask for constructive criticism and suggestions from your peers, managers, clients, or experts. You can also use tools and metrics to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of your communication. By seeking feedback and improvement, you can identify your strengths and weaknesses, and learn how to overcome your challenges and enhance your performance.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?