MediaWise is well known for its work with start-up, not for profit organisations. This is because we work closely with the leadership and management team from the beginning, listening and talking to everyone about what they need and want from communications. Everything that we do takes a strategic perspective, relates to the strategic direction and, critically, furthers the mission.
Why a mission focus?
If you are not clear about what you want to achieve, it will not matter whether you have the best video, the slickest website or a thousand followers on Twitter.
All charities (and indeed organisations) have a mission. It could be to end family violence, work towards closing the poverty gap or build more houses.
Whatever the mission is, all communication has to support what the organisation sets out to do.
Decisions about what tactics to use, who to engage with and how to assign resources will follow.
Leadership must agree.
It is impossible to do anything, and nor should an organisation or consultant do anything, without leadership agreement and engagement. If a leader does not embrace the strategy, communications will either fail or not live up to their potential.
MediaWise works closely with leadership teams for this reason.
Organisations must work with outsiders
No one person has all the answers. It is important that while the strategy is being shaped, views from stakeholders – from donors through to funders, supporters and suppliers – are sought. This can only help ensure that the approach is correct, vital and continues to evolve.