You're navigating digital communication with the community. How do you ensure authenticity and transparency?

As a former colleague once noted, there's a fine line between clever and corny. There's also a balance between the real you and being professional and making sure whatever you communicate is authentic, sincere, passionate, but appropriate. So while you're being the real you in communicating, make sure to avoid jargon, superlatives and fluffy language that means nothing, and humor that is easily misconstrued or misunderstood. The last suggestion is often the hardest lesson to learn. Humor does not always translate well in digital communication so use it sparingly and appropriately.

To ensure authenticity and transparency in digital communication with the community, I prioritize clear, honest messaging, actively listen to feedback, and engage in open dialogue. Regular updates, sharing behind-the-scenes content, and promptly addressing concerns build trust and foster a genuine connection.

Authenticity is the cornerstone of genuine communication, digital or otherwise. In my experience, being real and relatable in communication has significantly strengthened community trust and engagement. In addition to the above: avoid overly formal language that can create a barrier; instead, use a conversational tone that resonates with your community. Share stories and experiences that reflect the real people behind your organization. When your community sees the human element in your communication, they're more likely to trust and engage with you. In review: Use a conversational tone. Share real stories and experiences. Reflect the human element in communication.

To ensure authenticity and transparency in digital communication, consistently use a genuine, clear voice, share honest updates, and address concerns openly. Actively engage with feedback and be transparent about your intentions and decisions. Regularly verify information before sharing and acknowledge mistakes or changes promptly to build trust and maintain credibility.

Listening is the unsung hero of transparent communication. Transparency is a two-way street, and listening is as important as sharing. Monitor what your community is saying and feeling about the topics you discuss. Acknowledge their feedback, concerns, and questions promptly and openly. This doesn't just show that you're transparent; it demonstrates that you value their input and are willing to evolve based on their needs. By actively listening and responding, you create a dynamic community where members feel valued and part of the conversation. In my work, active listening has been key to creating a dynamic and engaged community, fostering a sense of belonging and transparency.

The best way to ensure authenticity and transparency is to communicate clearly, concisely, & consistently. In the realm of communicating on behalf of public safety, credibility is everything. It is important to be open & not hide, authentic & not risk averse, transformative & not transactional. The difficulty lies in being incredibly effective. You have to know who you are talking to before you can determine what you will say. Also, attention spans are shorter than those of goldfish. Communication must be cut into smaller pieces in order to be digestible. Given that videos emulate human connection more than photos or text, keep them short while also entertaining and amusing.