Modern Communicators need to FEEL and THINK before they communicate. Although PR professionals are taught to THINK, which is Timing, Heart, Independence, New Navigation and Knowledge about an audience, the FEEL model is the first step. When you FEEL you’re digging deeper to discover Fears, Empathy, Ethics and Love for the mission.
In this video I break down the FEEL model and why it’s important to FEEL first, then THINK, before you share your story, especially with younger generations. Millennials, for example, face the pressure to be “perfect” and we’re also seeing a spike in depression, anxiety and suicide rates amongst this group. When you FEEL you truly serve people, can offer more help, create deeper impact, and build long lasting relationships.
Make 2019 the year that you step back and really challenge yourself to FEEL as the first step toward better communication.
I’ve been writing a lot about the Modern Communicator and answering questions that have flowed in through Twitter, Skype, LinkedIn and Facebook. Who is the Modern Communicator? What does it take to become one, and how can you be more effective with your communication, whether it’s for your professional brand or your business? All great questions. My article, “If You’re a Modern Communicator, Then You THINK AHEAD” addresses these questions.
However, there’s one fundamental quality of the Modern Communicator that has to become an automatic part of your practice. It’s your ability to make tough choices, and to move outside of your comfort zone, as the communications landscape continues to evolve. Here’s where you have to trust your gut and know when to shift into your “uncomfortable zone.”
I’ll share a little story with you. In 2014, Richard Bistrong, a former international sales executive, contacted me after he was released from prison. He had read my books while he was incarcerated for 14 months. When he reached out, he asked if I would help him with his messaging for the media , work with him to navigate social media, and to rebuild his damaged reputation.
Here’s where, as a Modern Communicator, I had to make a choice. Should I step out of my comfort zone to take on this account? Should I align my work and brand with someone I had never met before, and I’m only first learning about his story? Even some of my closest colleagues said I shouldn’t take the assignment (all good intentioned professionals). I rose to the occasion and decided to work with Richard.
Richard and I will be discussing the details his journey in a Fireside Chat at the FPRA 80th Annual Conference on August 7th in Jacksonville, Florida. Until then, here’s a little bit about the Richard’s story (from the Modern Communicator’s perspective).
Of course, if you’d like to know more about my journey with Richard, you can email either of us at Deirdre@PurePerformanceComm.com or RichardTBistrong@gmail.com.
The question, “What is the future of communications?” is the question of the year; one that’s being addressed in many different professional circles.
On May 28th, I participated in a Google Plus on air hangout with Adam Cranfield, Neville Hobson, Danny Whatmough and Paul Sutton to answer some very targeted questions about PR and communications moving forward. You can check out the videos below for an introduction to the larger discussion that will continue on June 18th at the FutureComms 14 Conference in London. I’ll be delivering the opening keynote address, sharing my thoughts on how we need to move forward as modern communicators. Modern communicators need to solve the communications challenges of the 21st century organization and better serve the needs of businesses and the public today.
I hope to see you in London on the 18th. If you’re not able to be there in person, then you can follow the conference hashtag #futurecomms 14. Looking forward to more dynamic discussions!
