CRA Inc

20 Feb 06 @ 7:42 pm

Fireside Chats For The Future

The National Constitution Center in Philadelphia is a must-see for any history nerd or political science geek. It’s a great new museum with unique circular architecture, multi-media theater, and high-tech exhibits. The standing exhibit features major events in our nation’s history and the perimeter walls display a glimpse in to each presidency.

The section on FDR highlights the New Deal, World War II and an audio recording of one of “FDR’s fireside chat” radio broadcasts. I’ve always been intrigued with FDR and the way he guided the country out of the Great Depression and through World War II. This time, I was inspired when I heard the Fireside Chat recording. I realized FDR was the first leader to use media as a strategic communication tool.

The American people believed in FDR, understood the polices, and felt they would be safe under his leadership. His Fireside Chats addressed major events, policies, and programs through which he gave reduced uncertainty, gave Americans more pride and hope in their country. He needed people to understand why he was creating such policies and how government would eventually help the economy and later, the war effort. People identified, trusted, and respected FDR–he gave his leadership a voice of clarity and reassurance. A brilliant strategy using technology as a strategic tool, while he gave his aggressive initiatives a human voice.

Fast forward to the present where the technology and mass media choices are endless. How can leaders use the “Fireside Chat approach” to add a human voice to their policies, decisions, and personal brand? The answer: today’s CEO blogs are yesterday’s Fireside chats. CEOs and leaders who blog provide candid, human clarity to their ideas, thoughts, polices, and personal interests. Americans believed in FDR because they saw him a person–a human who put heart into decisions he thought were in the best interest of the country. Every leader can use their blog in a way that fits their style and preferences. In a world of increasing uncertainty, employees look for clarity, guidance, and reasons behind leaders’ decisions.

posted in category(s): Miscellaneous