The cost of info overload
Ever wonder why employees are ignoring internal communication? Maybe it’s that they’re overwhelmed with the information that they’re paying so dearly for at home. An article in MediaPost (free signup required) quotes a study from Veronic Suhler/PQ Media that by 2010, Americans will spend more than $1,000 per person on their media bill, when you factor in cable, video-on-demand, broadband, mobile TV, magazines, I-Pod downloads, etc. That’s double what they’re spending today.

“Worse yet,” writes columnist Steve Smith, “we are only at the early adopter phase of emerging platforms like satellite radio, online music services, digital video recorders, and mobile content, let alone applications like in-car global positioning systems, information services, and wireless broadband. Each platform is building business models and adding yet another monthly subscription fee to the tab. In 1975, consumers had only eight choices for entertainment and information, but in 2006 they have 21, according to PQ Media.”

Why this is important: It’s about time, money, and value. The media is working very hard to make sure consumers believe that what they’re investing their hard-earned money and precious time in feels worth the cost. Although you probably aren’t charging for your communication, employees are calculating whether the information they receive is worth spending their time on. Are you providing value?

Worthless words
He had me at the headline: “Five Words to Never Use in an Ad,” a Viewpoint column by ad professional Steve McKee in the June 7, 2006 BusinessWeek

The problem is that certain words are used so often and for so many nefarious claims that they’ve lost their credibility. “Using common words that have become empty clichés is a shortcut to nowhere,” writes Steve McKee. “Just because you sell it doesn’t mean people will buy it.”

Unfortunately, you—or your senior leaders—may be using some (or all) of these words in your own communication. I won’t keep you in suspense any longer: The bad words are Quality, Value, Service, Caring and Integrity. (Read why they don’t work in Mr. McKee’s column.)

Why this is important Words that senior leaders love may have a negative effect on front-line employees. Find out what the hot buttons are, and advise your internal clients accordingly.

See you next time.