I know it has been some time since I last posted, but I wanted to post my thoughts on how we can better communicate with each other. As a veteran of many campaigns and leader of a grassroots organization, I know how difficult it can be motivate people to action.
In the posts to come I will offer my thoughts on Dr Frank Luntz’s book, Words That Work: It’s Not What You Say It’s What People Hear. As many of you know Frank Luntz is a noted Republican pollster and wordsmith. He outlines 10 rules of successful communication. It’s a fantastic read and I recommend it to everyone.
Rule #1 Simplicity: Use Small Words
The attention span of voters gets shorter every election cycle. To get and keep their attention use small words that can be instantly understood. If you think about memorable campaign slogans and phrases, they used small words.
Rule #2 Brevity: Use Short Sentences
Rule #2 is similar to Rule #1. Again, it’s the short attention span. Short sentences with small words are easily understood and remembered. We remember the message of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, but few remember the keynote speaker and even fewer remember his message. Lincoln spoke very briefly, but was able to deliver a powerful message with only a few words and sentences.
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13 comments:
For a wordsmith he sure is being overly verbose in telling use the average voter is not very smart.
Isn't "overly verbose" a little repetitive?
This sounds good and all. Unfortunately, when it comes time to vote, most people only look for a single word when determining who to vote for: "Democratic" or "Republican"
"Me Good" as a slogan and get the endorsement of those GEICO cavemen and I think you can win any election.
That's a lot easier said than done.
- As I said, a rising tide lifts all boats; and,
- I'm not running for anything at the moment, so I'm good to go.
Brian,
You'll run for something. Mark my words.
Bud, the "most people" you speak about are primary voters. They would likely vote for a dog if it shared their party affiliation. The average voter, the Soccer Mom or NASCAR Dad, want someone who will improve the condition of their life. That can be lower taxes, better schools for their children, and safer communities.
Greg,
Those GEICO cavemen have inked a deal with ABC for a sitcom.
They must be doing something right.
If they can get a show, the Podcast should certainly get some broadcast time...
I love the Geico caveman. I don't know if they could stretch the premise into a television show (which has never stopped one from being produced and run for a long time).
I don't hold much hope for the cavemen show, but perhaps the Blogger Roundtable will become the next Evans, Novak and Shields.
Two words:
“indispensable destiny”
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