How do you provide communications advice?

The idea of providing communications advice can be quite daunting. The field we work in is subjective and it can sometimes be hard to get people to see the value in the work that we do.

The reality is that communications professionals have lots of value to add, but nless you're willing to pipe up and share some of your knowledge it's going to be tricky to show your true worth.

Here are some tips for how you can provide communications advice, demonstrate the value you add and maintain great relationships at work.

You know more than you think

Sometimes things that might seem obvious to you are not well known by others.

For example you might know the best way to structure a media release for maximum impact however other staff in your organisation that haven't worked with media before might not know this.

If someone is suggesting an approach or edit to your work that goes against your communications knowledge, feel confident letting them know that you recommend going about it in another way.

Be sure to explain why so they can see the value in your advice.

Sometimes how you say it is more important than what you say

Providing advice or feedback can be daunting especially if you're working with someone new or more senior than you.

It's good to provide feedback on the things that you like as well as those that you think need to change.

If there are lots of things that you feel need attention try to focus on those that are most critical rather than making everything perfect.

Strong opinions lightly held

As communications professionals we have a thirst for knowledge and will often be immersing ourselves in best practise examples of communications work.

The reality is that communications materials don't have to be textbook perfect to have impact.

Even though there might be changes that you would make if you were in the driving seat ask yourself if they're critical before you get too wedded to them.