There are two things I’m very fond of when it comes to good communication:
1. That the communicator has a point, and
2. That the communicator makes that point in a timely manner.
When these two things come together, it’s amazing what can happen.
Consider this Christmas appeal from the Los Angeles Catholic Worker, in their newspaper, appropriately titled the Catholic Agitator.
Top:
Special Christmas Appeal Issue
Our bank account is depleted
Headline:
Christmas Appeal
Letter:
Dear Friends,
We have no money. Our bank account is depleted by rising food costs and longer food lines, and we need your help.
But we know that you, too, are at the end of your economic rope because our nation’s collective wealth has been squandered on financial bailouts and foreign wars. Like you, we pray that sanity might soon prevail.
In the meantime, the poor are still with us.
[Continued]
How many times have you received a letter or heard a speech that you had no idea what was being said?
The next time you go to write a letter or make a speech, remember to bring your point. And get to that point in an appropriate matter of time.
Your audience will thank you, and they just may be inclined to respond to what it is you’re wanting them to do.
