External communication brings together within the communication department of an organization towards the outside world and the target groups.The role of external communication is fundamental for the reputation and the image of a company,. It is essential because it gives a positive image.
Whatever the size of the company, external communication plays a fundamental role for its image and reputation. Through External Communication tools it is possible to spread the brand among consumers, potential customers and other organizations. It is important to maintain the communication strategy between the spokespersons and all the communication platforms that the company uses. For example; press office, profiles in social networks, website , newsletters, etc.
The main expression of external communication is through advertising, marketing and public relations. Communication such as advertising campaigns, promotional events, TV ads, newspapers, radios, contacts with media are part of the media role of a company’s external communication.
An effective external communication creates values for the organization, develops the concept of the company and builds a positive image. However, for this, it is necessary that the organization has a group of professionals who are specialized in external communication. They must have objectively transmit mission, vision, history, values, philosophy and policies of the organization to the many company wishes to reach . A well-designed and planned external communication makes all the difference for the development of the company.
External communication: Objectives
External factors of communication are:
- the atmosphere of communication (formal or intimate),
- the situation in which communication takes place,
- socio-psychological characteristics of partners in communication,
- presence of a common thesaurus (stock of words).
The role of external communication
External communication is fundamental place in business strategies because it will convey the image of the company. The public and the media will make an opinion of the brand.The missions of external communication is to develop a positive image of the company. This positive image can be achieved by transmitting experience and skills. Using the media, lobbying, public relations, events and sponsorship will be the key to achieving the goals.
Their external communication has made them the biggest brands
Brands like Apple have become very successful in external communication. Each new product gives rise to a public presentation. In this way, the media and consumers can discover the product that will soon be marketed. External communication has become a hallmark of Apple, which is also seeking to share new directions for the coming year.
McDonalds has used external communication e by developing healthier menus, with salads and vegetables. The desserts are also processed with fresh fruit. By communicating through new advertisements, the company is able to show the trustworthiness to the clients.
The business of external communication
The press officer represents the company and the brand to the entire population. With each new intervention, this professional will ensure to deliver an important message for the success of the company.
The head of external communication represents a company or an organization. The corresponding job description indicates what these missions are. It works to develop the best image possible with Internet users, media and consumers.
Communication affects the brand equity of the company. It is the tool that allows the company to address its target customers. The messages to be conveyed, must be elaborated with care. . External communication, refers to all communication actions, which target prospects, customers, suppliers, shareholders, buyers, public authorities …
The head of the company, focuses mainly on the external form of communication , in order to attract more customers.External communication tools are numerous! They vary according to the target, the objectives and the message to be conveyed. To succeed in your strategy, it is effective to choose a combination of different tools, depending on your budget. These tools include: direct and indirect marketing, social networks , media, sponsorship, advertising.
Creating a guide for external communication in an organization in a tabular format involves several key elements. Here’s a structured approach:
- Purpose/Objective: Define the purpose of the communication. Is it for marketing, public relations, stakeholder engagement, or customer service?
- Audience: Identify the target audience. This could include customers, stakeholders, partners, media, or the public.
- Channels/Medium: List the communication channels to be used. This could include email, social media, press releases, public speeches, or official websites.
- Message Content: Outline the key messages or content themes. These should align with the organization’s branding, values, and objectives.
- Frequency: Decide on how often to communicate. This could be daily, weekly, monthly, or as needed.
- Responsibility: Assign who in the organization is responsible for each type of communication. This might include the marketing team, public relations, customer service, or top management.
- Feedback Mechanism: Include a method for receiving and managing feedback or responses from the audience.
- Compliance and Ethics: Ensure that the communication complies with legal standards and ethical norms.
- Evaluation Metrics: Define how to measure the effectiveness of the communication.
- Crisis Communication Plan: Include a plan for emergency or crisis situations.
Here’s a simplified example of what the table could look like:
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Purpose/Objective | Marketing and Brand Awareness |
Audience | Customers and Potential Clients |
Channels/Medium | Email, Social Media, Company Website |
Message Content | Product Information, Promotions, Company News |
Frequency | Weekly Emails, Daily Social Media Posts |
Responsibility | Marketing Team |
Feedback Mechanism | Customer Service Email, Social Media Engagement |
Compliance and Ethics | Adherence to Advertising Standards, Ethical Practices |
Evaluation Metrics | Engagement Rates, Website Traffic, Conversion Rates |
Crisis Communication Plan | Designated Spokesperson, Prepared Statements |
This table is just a starting point and can be customized according to the specific needs and structure of your organization.