Defining what we do (part 2)
23rd April 2007 by Michael Zimet
This may be the most important question we face as we explore Advocacy.
We had a good exchange in the first part of this discussion. I was especially pleased to see comments from our colleagues on five continents, whose perspectives are as diverse as their backgrounds, cultures and geographies.
Take a look at these excerpts…
One of the biggest problems we face as a profession is that we are surrounded by lay people who think they know as much about what we do as we do. –Mike Klein
When I talk about IABC…I talk about including all the areas of communications necessary to help organizations meet their objectives. –Kristen Sukalac
I think we are finally beginning to gain confidence in our ability to make a difference and are maturing as a profession. –Priya Bates, ABC
At the end of the day, regardless of titles, we are in the business of communications. -Karel Mc Intosh
…let’s find ways to define our work to others so that they understand what makes our profession unique. –Connie Wilks, ABC
I think they capture the essence of our greatest challenge:
How do we define (to others) what we do?
What do you think?
April 26th, 2007 at 1:14 pm
I think that depends on your particular communication discipline. My personal favorite technique is to pretend you are defining your job to a 5 year old. That pretty much eliminates corporate-speak, which is where most people go wrong, IMHO.
suzanne salvo
May 7th, 2007 at 7:58 am
I’m with Suzanne! Five-year-olds ask “Why?” a lot — so if you keep asking “Why?” about what you do, you’ll come up with some good images, examples and explanations.
Wilma