Knowing Your Audience

When looking at communication; it can be determined that the biggest factor is to know the audience. Depending on who is receiving the message, the delivery of the message can be much different. Many factors within an audience can change the delivery of the message, or even the message itself. This paper, will take a look at two types of audiences in relation to an event that took place. It will look at the family aspect of the situation, and will look at the employees of the company involved. The article, “Over 30 Workers Trapped After Chilean Copper Mine Collapse” speaks about the mine collapse that trapped over 30 workers inside. This paper will look at the types of communication needed to address the numerous people affected by this event.
Considerations for the General Audience Looking at the Audience is this matter; there are a blend of different roles, emotions, and concerns for those involved. This audience will have mixed feelings and each individual will have a different reaction based on the information presented. A face to face approach is probably better for people such as family or friends of the workers. Getting a phone call, letter or email could seem too insincere and may not hit the audience well. As far as the general message from the company, facts are usually the best way to go. Giving the general public what they need to know, and not going into too much detail will leave little opening for confusion.
Considerations for Employees The biggest issue when communicating to a group of employees is to not create a panic. These employees will obviously be concerned for their fellow co-workers and for their own well-being. If this can happen at all, then what is going to stop it from happening again in their eyes? When representing a company, they need to hear facts, empathy, and to be assured. They will need to know, or at least feel that every step is being taken to ensure this does not happen again. The biggest goal is to try and put