Strategic Communication

What is Strategic Communication?
Strategic communication involves distributing a message to a target audience in order to achieve a particular outcome.
In our readings and discussion in this module, we will consider how a strategic approach can be beneficial to PR practitioners developing communication campaigns. We'll also look at the first stage of a strategic process, assessing:
The problem
The target audience
Communication resources that are available to PR practitioners (see the section below on communication theories, one type of resource that can serve as a helpful guide during the planning stage)
Relevant conditions that could impact the plan: Social, political, and/or economic

Full Answer Section

    Second, strategic communication is more audience-focused. Strategic communicators take the time to understand the needs and wants of their target audience. They tailor their messages to the audience's interests and concerns. Third, strategic communication is more measurable. Strategic communicators track the results of their campaigns so that they can see what is working and what is not. This information can then be used to improve future campaigns. The benefits of strategic communication are many. It can help organizations to:
  • Build relationships with their stakeholders
  • Increase brand awareness
  • Generate leads
  • Drive sales
  • Improve customer satisfaction
  • Manage crises
  • Enhance employee morale
The first stage of a strategic communication process is to assess the problem. This involves identifying the issue that needs to be addressed and the target audience that needs to be reached. Once the problem has been assessed, the next step is to develop the message. The message should be clear, concise, and persuasive. It should also be tailored to the target audience. The third step is to select the communication channels. The channels that are chosen should be the most effective way to reach the target audience. The fourth step is to implement the communication campaign. This involves creating and distributing the message through the selected channels. The fifth and final step is to evaluate the results of the campaign. This involves tracking the results and making changes as needed. Communication theories can be a helpful guide during the planning stage of a strategic communication campaign. They can provide insights into how people communicate and how to create messages that are effective. Some of the most common communication theories include:
  • Theories of persuasion: These theories focus on how people are persuaded to change their beliefs or behaviors.
  • Theories of audience analysis: These theories help communicators to understand the needs and wants of their target audience.
  • Theories of channel selection: These theories help communicators to select the most effective channels for reaching their target audience.
  • Theories of message design: These theories help communicators to create messages that are clear, concise, and persuasive.
Strategic communication is a complex process, but it is essential for organizations that want to be successful. By following the steps outlined above, organizations can develop and implement effective communication campaigns that achieve their desired results.  

Sample Answer

     

Strategic communication is the process of planning, developing, and executing a communication campaign in order to achieve a specific goal. It is a systematic approach to communication that takes into account the needs of the target audience, the message that needs to be communicated, and the channels that will be used to communicate the message.

Strategic communication is different from other types of communication in a few key ways. First, it is more intentional and goal-oriented. Strategic communicators don't just send out messages hoping that someone will hear them. They carefully plan their communication campaigns in order to achieve a specific outcome.