Selecting the most effective spokesperson

Congratulations. With your new Promotion comes the extra responsibility of being your company spokesperson. Are you the right person for this job?

The transitioning economy brought many of these changes to the workforce in recent months and created a need for many companies to look for the perfect candidate to be the new company mouth-piece. In some cases, companies who were once fully staffed with Public Relations and Communications departments are now looking within to find replacements to these positions after corporate restructuring and downsizing. So, who is the right representative for your company?

At quick glance, you can easily discover those who love their new position and are engaged with other staff and departments, but they are not necessarily the perfect candidate. Surely there must be someone that has a pleasant speaking voice and presents well in the public. Perhaps the person that is best suited in the role as company 'spokesperson' is (in fact) you.

Who is best qualified to be a spokesperson at your company:
1) Someone who is keenly aware of your company's operations or the department they represent.
2) A person who speaks confidently and is respected be their peers for their communication skills.
3) An individual who remains calm during crisis and will most likely deliver your key message to the media under pressure.
4) The multi-tasker. I call this person 'the one who knows just enough about what is going on to be dangerous'. Yes, this is similar to point number 1 above.
5) Someone with a flexible schedule. As a spokesperson, you may have to make presentations to media or shareholders at times that are not convenient to your regular schedule. Being available during 'off-hours' goes a long way in demonstrating and improving your company's customer service.

Take a look around your office. Take stock of your surroundings and the talented staff you have working with you. I am sure you will find the right person for the job as your new spokesperson.

-Darren

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