Michael Ricci

Michael Ricci is a Partner at Seven Letter, a leading strategic communications firm. Prior to his current role, Michael was a long-time leadership aide on Capitol Hill with senior communications roles in the speakerships of both John Boehner and Paul Ryan. Michael joins Host Anthony Shop for a discussion of how to build trust as a communicator, what type of communication is most effective in times of crisis, and how to approach incorporating new technologies into your communication strategy.Takeaways:Social media is an incredible two-way communication tool. For example, organizations can share broad or narrow messages for different audiences, and those audiences can share their specific perspectives and experiences with the organization at scale.A great and often understated way to build trust and influence with others is to show them that you are listening to them and really care about what they have to share. Physically taking notes is a good way to convey that you are invested.In times of crisis and when information is scant, many filters that typically govern communication fall by the wayside. For example, early in the COVID-19 pandemic, there were a lot of questions and few answers. However, Michael found that live-tweeting new information as he learned it helped get it into the hands of Maryland residents more efficiently and effectively than a press conference would have.People care more about the content of the message than how well-polished it is. The COVID-19 information tweets were valuable because people could ask questions and get direct responses about exactly what they were asking, rather than a long, well-crafted written statement released to the press.Too many people are afraid to say the wrong thing, which leads them to try and hide, however, it’s much better and more beneficial to be transparent. When leaders try to hide from something, it spawns mistrust and misinformation.Before adopting a new communication technology or channel, ensure it aligns with your overall mission and message. Make a plan for using this new technology or channel to further that mission and message.Quote of The Show:“A culture of trust, not just trust in me as a leader, but in each other, is a big thing for me. There are going to be times when you'll have to rely on each other and trust in yourselves.” - Michael RicciLinks:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikericci1/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/riccimike?lang=en Website: http://sevenletter.com/