Are you an optimist? - Don’t let it show in your messaging!
3 factors to consider when communicating optimism in your messages
GOVERNMENT COMMUNICATIONS
Thomas Y. Lynch
6/3/20241 min read
I’m an optimist but as a Government Communicator, I have to dial back my enthusiasm in my messaging. I can hear my fellow optimist now; “but that is not your authentic self” or “The world needs more optimism”. All of which I agree with, however, we have work to do. Communicating effectively is relaying ideas to EVERYONE in your community - even our beloved pessimists.
As government communicators, we should consider the impact of our messages on public sentiment carefully. While optimism is often seen as a positive trait, there are times when extreme optimism can be detrimental to public perception. Here are three factors to consider when communicating optimism:
1. Authenticity:
In today's political climate, optimism can sometimes be viewed as not authentic. The public is looking for genuine and truthful communication from their government officials, and if they perceive optimism as being forced or insincere, it can erode trust and credibility.
2. Truthfulness:
While inspiring hope and positivity in the public is important, it is equally important to be truthful and transparent with the facts. Optimism that is perceived as "sugarcoating" or glossing over the harsh realities can lead to a disconnect between government officials and the citizens they serve.
3. Political Spin:
In a society where political spin is prevalent, it is crucial to provide balanced and accurate information when communicating optimism. It is important to understand the perspective of pessimists in our community and present the facts in a fair and unbiased way.
The Wrap-up, while optimism is essential in our roles as communicators, it is important to strike a balance and ensure that our messages are authentic, truthful, and balanced. By being mindful of these factors, we can better serve the public and maintain trust and credibility in our communications. Here are 3 online resources to help you balance optimism in your public communications.
“How well we communicate is not determined by how well we say things but how well we are understood.”
