Communications Lessons I Learned on the Trail
By Emily Rogers, Account Executive
As an avid-but-beginner outdoorswoman, many motivations, perspectives and lessons I’ve learned throughout my life have happened in nature. It probably comes as no surprise, but the more time I’ve spent hiking, camping and simply observing the great outdoors, the more time I’ve had to reflect on the many parallels there are to our way of life, the stories we tell and how it makes us feel. This past summer, as my family and I hiked over large glaciers, slippery paths and expansive views in Glacier National Park, I had time to slow down and consider how important communication is on the trail, and of course, in life.
Knowing Your Route Builds Confidence
I’ve gotten lost on the trail more times than I’d like to admit. Every time I walk away (thankfully) with a key learning for the next time. We had a similar experience on our trip in July, as much of the trail was hidden by snow, which made wayfinding difficult. There were a few times a lump formed in my throat when we climbed too high on a cliff, only to scramble our way back when we realized we were off trail. Trail markers exist for a purpose. They reassure us that we’re still on the right path, even without the end yet in sight. When we go into a situation with little information, or lack of confidence in our own abilities, we leave a lot up to chance. The same goes for good communication and the message we wish to convey to our audience. Knowing who you are will determine your confidence in decision making and displaying your expertise in whatever field or business you’re a part of. Call on your experience, plan, double check that plan and if you’re unsure, bring in some extra hands to cultivate your route to success.
Leave No Trace
LNT or Leave No Trace is a set of principles commonly referred to in the outdoor community. It summarizes leaving things better than you found them and investing in the things and places you care about. There’s a communications lesson in that, too. Any words we use, messaging we convey and campaigns we send out into the world leave an impact. What is the goal of that impact? A successful communications campaign or messaging strategy shouldn’t add to the noise and distractions that already exist. The best communication respects its audience, knows them and adds value through telling a story and creating a lasting impression. Just like on the trail, the goal isn’t to make the biggest footprint, but a meaningful one.
The Best Views Require Effort
The best views in nature often require a decent amount of effort. You have to put in miles, navigate switchbacks and often push through difficult situations to reach the incredible view you haven’t been promised yet. A strong communications strategy includes steady, hard work and considers the entire journey. It determines which channels make sense, what messages resonate with a specific audience, when to communicate and how each piece of information can work together. The best communications and campaigns don’t simply chase the views, they create a reason for people to notice, relate and care.
Slowing Down to Communicate Better
The best moments on a hike for me are the times I can really slow down and notice small details that I would miss if I were rushing through an activity. The sunlight poking through the trees, the sound of a native bird or the crunch of leaves. Memorable moments are created in paying attention and slowing down enough to enjoy them. Great communicators approach work in the same way. Before telling a story, they listen, ask questions and notice details while understanding the people behind the message.
If you are looking for a reset or inspiration for your next communications campaign, try setting aside some time outside. AllTrails, a popular outdoor navigation app, says even 20 minutes outside can be enough to refresh your mind, mood and cognitive function. And if you need more robust help with communication, Rasor is always excited to help.
Rasor is an award-winning marketing agency in Cincinnati, delivering marketing and communications, copywriting, design and video production to industries including healthcare, municipal and infrastructure and B2B/B2C. Want to learn more about how Rasor can help you take your communications strategy to the next level? Contact us at info@gorasor.com or 513-793-1234.