Communicate Information Effectively

Presenting Research and Intelligence Gathering Findings

In the business world, delivering a professional, topnotch presentation is not only essential -- it is expected!

The art of getting your message across effectively is a vital part of the research process. Whether you are walking through the hallowed halls of academia or occupying the corner office at a top investment bank on Wall Street, effective communication skills are essential.

Real Communication: Taking the High Road

We are judged, fairly or unfairly, by the words we use. Effective communication is essential in today's information age. The dynamic utilization of technology to communicate information is crucial for successful presentations. Before we examine some basic guidelines it is imperative that you understand the importance of integrity and truthfulness in communication. Real or genuine communication is built on the following principles:

Truthful: Be accurate and factually correct.

Fundamental : Deal with the core issues and the central facts of the situation.

Comprehensive: Tell the whole story, including the meanings and implications of the issue in question.

Clear: Use language that is appropriate and understandable.

Timely: Provide the information as soon as it is known and allow time for response before action is taken.

Consistency : Do not oppose or contradict your own words or actions.

Accessible: Make the information available to all parties.

Caring: Show respect, concern and compassion for the circumstances, attitudes, beliefs and feelings of everyone involved.

Successful Communication Guidelines

Step 1. Determine the audience and scope.

What is the venue for the communication?

•  Formal gathering for a large audience (e.g., a speech on global warming)

•  Informal discussion with a small group of classmates (e.g., current events)

•  Senior project report and live presentation (e.g., California's wine industry)

Step 2. Identify a communication medium and format that best supports the purposes of the information (product) and the intended audience.

What is the delivery format or mechanism of the communication?

•  Live, in-person speech (e.g., conference presentation)

•  Written (e.g., journal article, senior project paper)

•  Email (e.g., memo, office letter)

•  Media (e.g., teleconference, television)

Step 3. Utilize a variety of appropriate information technology applications in creating the final product.

What technologies will enhance the message?

• PowerPoint (visual and linear)
• Flash or streaming video clips (multimedia)
• Statistical packages such as SPSS (data driven)
• Excel (tabular data)
• Website (interactive and secure)

Step 4. Incorporate sound principles of design and communication appropriate to the environment.

What colors, composition, layout, and typography will be utilized to enhance the information?

• Website (e.g., easy and logical navigation)

• Brochures and handouts (e.g., high-resolution graphics)
• Business cards (e.g., professional image)

Step 5. Communicate clearly and in a style to support the purposes of the intended audience.

Who are you presenting to?

• Potential employer (e.g., job interview)
• Classmates (e.g., class presentation)
• Professional association (e.g., strategic vision and planning)
• Industry advisory board (e.g., industry trends and employment statistics)
• Investment bankers (e.g., business plan to secure venture capital)
• News media (e.g., political campaign)