Publications
Publications
- March 2016
- HBS Case Collection
Lighting the Fire: Crafting and Delivering Broadly Inspiring Messages
By: Tsedal Neeley and Tom Ryder
Abstract
Communicating persuasively is a critical skill for leaders of any team or organization. Yet, connecting and resonating with an audience can nevertheless be a challenging task. We outline how to effectively mobilize groups through the power of communication. This note will serve leaders and members of diverse groups as they find their voice to inspire, unite, and engage others through messaging. With multiple examples as a backdrop, we highlight four key components of effective messaging in this note: 1) Structuring Messages and the Persuasive Story Pattern, 2) Appealing to the Audience, 3) Persuasively Communicating through Rhetorical Devices, and 4) Delivering Clear and Captivating Messages.
Keywords
Messaging; Communication; Leading; Public Speaking; Persuasion; Rhetorical Devices; Communication Intention and Meaning; Forms of Communication; Communication Strategy
Citation
Neeley, Tsedal, and Tom Ryder. "Lighting the Fire: Crafting and Delivering Broadly Inspiring Messages." Harvard Business School Technical Note 416-046, March 2016.