Renovating your communications strategy with style

I love my home. It’s a front-to-back split level built in 1960 with a sharply sloping roofline for a satisfying dramatic flair. However, the realities of owning a home built 63 years ago can be painful. From regular maintenance to cosmetic updates, our to do list is never ending.

I approach our home renovations the same way I approach a solid communications strategy in my role as a media relations specialist at CareSource. You must have a clear focus on planning, adapting and balance for both.

1. Who is my audience? Tailoring to homeowners' tastes.

Similar to how I've learned to understand my family's preferences and needs when renovating my 1960s home, I apply the same principle in communications. I consider the demographics, interests, and communication habits of my target audience, just as I consider the style, comfort, and functionality that suit my household.

2. What are my objectives? Blueprinting my renovation goals.

Much like I have specific objectives in mind when renovating my vintage house, I set clear goals for my communications strategy. Do I want to increase brand awareness, drive traffic, or enhance customer satisfaction? Clearly outlining my objectives provides the foundation for my communication blueprint.

3. What is my message? Choosing the right color palette.

Selecting the right color palette sets the tone for my home's interior, just as crafting a compelling message is paramount in communications. What is the core message I want to convey? Is it a call to action, an introduction to a new product, or an informative piece? This message serves as the guiding principle for all my communication efforts.

4. Where does my audience consume information? Selecting the right materials

In home improvement, choosing the right materials and finishes ensures a cohesive and appealing look. Similarly, I understand where my audience gathers information is crucial in communications. Do they frequent social media, read industry journals, or prefer face-to-face interactions? Knowing this helps me select the most relevant channels for reaching them.

5. What resources are available? Budgeting my communication plan.

Just as I allocate a budget for home improvements, I consider the resources at my disposal for my communications strategy. This includes financial resources, time constraints and the availability of skilled team members. Adapting my strategy within these constraints ensures a realistic and achievable plan.

6. What are my competitors doing? Surveying the neighborhood.

Much like I observe neighboring homes for renovation ideas, I also research competitors in my industry. What tactics are they employing, and how successful are they? This information helps me identify gaps or opportunities in my own communications strategy.

7. How will I measure success? Evaluating my renovations' impact.

As a homeowner, I gauge the success of a home improvement project by the enhanced functionality and aesthetic appeal. Similarly, establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) is crucial in communications. Am I tracking website traffic, engagement metrics, or customer satisfaction scores? Defining success metrics allows me to fine-tune my approach.

8. How will I adapt and evolve? Navigating future renovations.

Just as my home needs to adapt to changing needs and styles over time, my communications strategy is not set in stone. I regularly revisit and adapt my strategy based on feedback and changing circumstances, ensuring continued effectiveness.

Asking all eight of these critical questions, we can build communications that resonates and a house we can call truly call home.