Issues of the Day

Lots of big headlines. Lots of communication efforts. Between the current U.S. presidential election season and the growing coronavirus, for all of us with front-row seats or, in some cases, who are on the front line, it is a fascinating and even educational time to be witness to these issues as they pertain to communication. In the one case, there are a group of folks are campaigning to eventually become president of the United States. On the other, a life-threatening virus has crossed the borders of America and has begun infecting folks. Between the two, they are giving all of us insight into the complexities and importance of straight-forward and timely communication.

In the case of the campaign, the choice within the Democratic Party as to who will be its nominee are narrowing down, primarily, to two candidates. Both individuals, former vice president
Joe Biden and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, are well known figures. Their styles of communicating are already established in the eyes of the general public. Biden's is more folksy while Sanders is more what I would call "in-your-face." Between now and when it will be decided as to which one will go up against President Trump in the general election, it is worth noting that their success will largely be determined by their style of communicating and how well it is received by voters.

Regarding the coronavirus, how well the general public contends with it will also largely be determined by how clearly and openly information about it is shared. Besides the obvious threat of the disease itself, the virus is a serious communication challenge. It is essential that those in positions of public authority who speak of it must do so with pinpoint accuracy by basing what they say on facts, not unsubstantiated conjecture. In any potential crisis situation, truth and openness need to be the driving engines. This is why those who do speak of it to wide audiences must be credible. Ultimately, how well they do their job will determine how well the public takes step to maintain its health.