read time: 2.5 minutes
 

Same message.. two ways.

A social media post:

1. "Hey everyone, don't forget to check out my new blog post on productivity tips!"

OR

2. "I wrote this blog post on productivity tips just for you. I know what it's like to feel like you're not using your time to the fullest. You should check it out and let me know what you think!"

Both messages aim to promote the same content, but did you notice the second version feels more personal and direct?

It's a small shift, but it can significantly impact how your message is received.

Now, consider an email to your team:

1. "Hey team. I know all of you have a ton going on, but remember to register for that event next week."

OR

2. "I know you have a lot on your plate, but I'd like you to register for that event next week."

In the 1st example I'm standing in a crowd.

In the 2nd, I'm talking with someone who's making direct eye contact with me.

The ability to communicate messages to a group of people is an incredible evolution in our world.

However, the trade-off is that our messages can become more generic and less impactful.

Even though we're communicating to a group of people, we can still make the recipient feel like we're talking directly to them, which creates more connection, a deeper resonating message, and a better shot at inspiring action. 

That's the topic for today's newsletter. 

Let's get to it.

Visualize One Person

You may be writing an email to a group, speaking in front of a room, or posting on social media to a broader audience.

How can you possibly craft a message in a way that speaks to every single person that receives it and addresses their unique needs?

The truth is, you can't.

But you can visualize one person, or a persona that represents your ideal intended recipient. 

Who are they?

Tailor your language to address them directly. Keeping your intended persona in the back of your mind will help your intended message hit home.

Channel Their Challenges

Before you write or outline, close your eyes and picture your person or persona.

Ask yourself:

What is their purpose?
Their motivation?
Their goal?
What are they struggling with right now?
Why should they care about your message?

Try to connect the dots between your message and why it should matter to them. 

Write Directly to them

Experiment with direct "you" language vs. group speak.

This small change can make your message feel more intimate and engaging -- and give you that 'eye contact' effect.

Here's what I mean:

"Everyone should manage their time better." → "You should manage your time better."

"All of you need to focus on this task." → "You need to focus on this task."

"Many people find this useful." → "You will find this useful."

"Folks often forget to do this." → "You often forget to do this."

"We recommend trying this method." → "I recommend you try this method."

"One might consider this approach." → "You might consider this approach."

"Individuals should be aware." → "You should be aware."

"Someone could benefit from this." → "You could benefit from this."

"Anybody can join the meeting." → "You can join the meeting."

"Everyone here should check this out." → "You should check this out."

You might just be surprised by the difference a few small tweaks can make.

Challenge for this Week

Yes, sometimes it's OK to refer to an entire group, especially when our intention is to leverage that powerful collective energy or just to have a lighter and less direct message.

But when it comes to ensuring our message hits, it's helpful to speak to the one.

In your group emails, presentations, or social posts this week, can you leverage a "you and me" mindset in your communications to foster greater connection, resonance, and action?

I'm always rooting for YOU.
 

If you enjoyed this newsletter. I hope you forward it to someone today.

See you next week!

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