In today's fast-paced world, information overload is a common challenge. Emails tend to be a primary tool for driving work and results, yet they often fall short due to high inbox counts, busy schedules, and short attention spans. And while many may groan at the idea of “harnessing” an overused tool like ye olde email, power comes when you craft for clarity and accountability in every message.
The CORE communication approach is a simple, yet remarkably effective communication strategy that can cut through an ineffective inbox– the spam, the emails that just say “Thanks!” (I’m definitely guilty of that one!), and the dreaded update email. And it’s a flexible approach that can be used for bigger issues, or smaller, everyday tasks.
Context: Setting the Scene
Context is the cornerstone of the CORE approach. Start by setting the scene and providing the essential background information to help your reader understand the issue. Be concise and ensure that your message addresses the key points clearly. For example, when informing leaders about a new policy, outline the policy's purpose, scope, and impact succinctly. Explain why this policy is being introduced and what problem it aims to solve.
Context everyday example: For scheduling a meeting about an upcoming training, briefly explain the purpose of the training, its importance, and why the meeting is necessary.
Options: Empowering Decision-Making
Presenting options is crucial for fostering informed decision-making. By providing multiple courses of action-- that you've researched for viability and effectiveness-- you give your audience the power to choose the best path forward. For instance, when discussing the new policy, offer several implementation strategies that you've looked into, such as a phased rollout, pilot testing in select areas, or immediate city-wide implementation, each with its own set of benefits and challenges.
Options everyday example: When scheduling the meeting, suggest a few dates and times and be clear if the meeting options are in-person or virtual.
Recommendation: Expert Guidance
Your recommendation should stand out as a well-considered suggestion based on the presented options. This step is about guiding your audience toward the most effective solution. Make sure your recommendation is backed by data and aligns with the organization's goals, and considers the risk involved if applicable. For example, recommend a phased rollout of the new policy, highlighting that this approach allows for adjustments based on initial feedback and minimizes the risk of disruption.
Recommendation everyday example: Recommend the most convenient meeting time based on preliminary feedback from meeting participants, emphasizing the importance of having full attendance for effective discussion.
Expiration: Creating Urgency
Set a clear timeframe for action to ensure timely decision-making. The expiration component adds a sense of urgency and prevents delays. Specify deadlines for responses or actions to keep the momentum going, and – now, here’s the kicker – clearly state which option you will move forward with if you don’t hear back by this expiration date.
This “expiration option” may be different from your recommendation, especially if your recommendation has higher risk. For instance, specify that feedback on the new policy implementation strategy should be provided within two weeks to ensure a smooth and timely rollout; and if you don’t hear back within two weeks, the policy will be tabled.
Expiration everyday example: Set a deadline for confirming attendance for the meeting and state which option you will move forward with if you don’t hear back by the expiration date.
Let's put it all together!
Embracing CORE for Effective Communication
The CORE approach is a simple, no-cost, and low-risk strategy that can be adopted by anyone to model effective communication. Whether addressing major policy changes or organizing routine meetings, focusing on clear context, offering actionable options, providing expert recommendations, and setting explicit deadlines can enhance communication effectiveness and drive better outcomes.
We believe in empowering teams with simple and practical tools and frameworks they need to succeed. Embrace the CORE communication approach and see the difference it makes in your organization's effectiveness!
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