When it’s time to create a change communication plan, it’s hard to know where to start. It’s tempting to rush into tactics, but then you’re not taking a strategic approach.

That’s why it’s important to start with two essential planning elements:

1. Who you’re communicating with.
2. And what outcomes communication will achieve.

Think of your communication plan like a business plan.

Let’s say you want to open a coffee shop. You’d start your plan by defining who you want your target customers to be. Then you’d decide what you want to achieve. Your objective is to create an unforgettable experience by inviting cool people to bring their dogs. As a result, you’ll have record sales—not just coffee, but dog biscuits as well.

You would use the same approach to build a change communication plan. Start by identifying who will be affected by the change you’re communicating. Then determine what you need those stakeholders to know, believe and do—your objectives. Now you know the important steps to creating a successful change communication plan.

Next time you get your morning coffee, think about what you learned today.

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