Understand your audience beyond their job titlesBefore crafting any message, deeply understand who you’re speaking to. Go beyond job descriptions and political affiliations. Investigate stakeholders’ incentives, fears, hopes, and historical biases.
Different audiences require different approaches:
- Experts may want data and detail.
- Informed non-experts need simplified yet accurate insights.
- The general public needs clarity, emotion, and relevance.
Takeaway: A compelling policy recommendation must speak to both logic and emotion, policy and politics.
Shape the message with strategy and empathyPolicy relevanceMake sure your recommendation aligns with existing discussions, government priorities, and upcoming policy shifts. Timing matters.
Actionable solutionsAvoid abstract ideals or utopian visions. Offer feasible, resource-aware solutions grounded in reality.
Keep it simpleThink of your communication like an iceberg: the tip should grab attention and be easily understood; the depth can follow once interest is piqued.
Make It StickUse:
- Memorable phrases or "sticky" titles
- Striking facts or figures
- Personal stories that humanize the issue
- Visuals to simplify complex ideas
- Language that audiences can reuse when discussing your message
Balance hope and riskDon’t just present the benefits; also explain the consequences of inaction. A mix of carrots and sticks can move stakeholders from passive to proactive.
Stay ethicalNever compromise the integrity of your data. Credibility is hard to gain and easy to lose.