Meet People Where They Are

It seems like every article or interview on communication is talking about personalization and meeting people where they are, but what does that really mean? Personalization and meeting people where they are is about creating a tailored approach to communication that resonates with the audience on a personal level. By understanding who they are, how they prefer to receive information, and what truly matters to them, you can craft messages that not only capture their attention but also drive engagement and action.

Step 1: Who is your audience?

Understanding the audience is crucial before crafting your message. Make sure you have a strong understanding of who you are communicating with by asking these key questions:

1. Who is my audience?
2. What is important to them? (Be sure to consider both their professional and personal priorities.)
3. Why should they care about my message, product, or solution?
4. Do I need to adjust my solution or audience if they aren't interested?
5. What do you know about their behaviors and preferences?

Step 2: How do they like to receive communication?

Different channels work for different people. Consider using:

• Email
• Text messages
• Social media
• In-app notifications
• Collaboration tools (e.g., Slack, Teams)
• Intranet sites
• In-person meetings
• Mail

Additionally, think about the format—whether short-form or long-form text, video, webinars, interactive gamification, etc. Tailor your approach based on the type of message and desired action.

Don't make the mistake of choosing just one channel and format for communication. Every message has a unique purpose and may require a unique strategy.

Step 3: What is the most important point of your message?

Focus on one or two key points to avoid overwhelming your audience. If additional details are needed, link to a separate resource or document.

Step 4: Be prepared to communicate in multiple channels and multiple times.

Even the best messages need to be repeated. The "rule of 7" suggests that a message needs to be repeated at least 7 times to be effective. Don't hesitate to over-communicate.

Need help defining your audience and communication strategies? Reach out to Becky at Angel Vision to schedule a Complimentary Discovery Session.  Remember, the goal is to create a connection and make your message resonate. Happy communicating!