You Can’t Control Your Message Anymore.
Posted on March 17, 2008
Filed Under Uncategorized
One of the most important lessons that we can learn in communications, is that we no longer have the ability to control our message. One need look no further than this current political season for a decent illustration of this. John McCain is an honorable man, who has served this country with distinction. He prides himself on “straight talk” which means he tends to entertain questions from reporters or citizens with (shockingly) accurate answers. I will leave it up to you to decide if you agree or disagree with his message, but the fact is, he says a lot of stuff. Given the proper context and thorough explanation, it probably even makes sense. The trouble is, when someone else takes your speeches and mashes them up into a parody video, then you look like a downright war monger. Obama has successfully stayed on message this entire campaign season, by only saying one thing… “Yes We Can”. He has inspired hope and optimism with this slogan. How will it unpack and convert to the business of governing is still somewhat of a mystery. Hillary has criticized Obama for being an “empty suit,” and I tend to think she is right. No doubt we know what she will do to run this country if elected.So what is the lesson? Keep your message simple and stay on track. Let those around you flesh out the details of the vision that has been cast. And if at all possible… don’t turn something like bombing Iran into a big joke.
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