Experience(s) matter.

The year is 1978 and a group of kindergarteners are seated “Indian-style” (the term that pre-dated “criss-cross applesauce”) in a circle on a cool tile floor. The first child whispers into the ear of the second child, “Tomorrow is the birthday of our teacher’s brother, George.” The second child whispers to the third, third to the fourth, and the whispered message continues around to each child. The final student is asked to share the secret message. “On Thursday, our teacher is going to have a baby named George.” Laughter erupts… afterall, the story still contains the teacher, a birth, and a day with a “T,” but the message is all wrong.

How often in the fields of conservation, forestry, natural resources, do we try (or seek help) to tell our story or explain an issue, and the end result bears some resemblance to the initial message, but it’s “off”? At best, it’s a little frustrating or maybe ineffective – and at its worst, it can cost an organization community or political support, a client, corporate funding, or the support of key board members. The nuances of language, particularly science-based language, are critically important to get correct, as we develop messages to secure clients, members, and donors.

Therein lies the secret sauce that makes Steward Terra stand apart from the rest.  There’s no need to explain longleaf pine silviculture, the issues of confidentiality when discussing a conservation easement, or the challenges log truck drivers face when attempting to secure insurance. Understanding the issues, shaping the message, and delivering in an effective way is what I do – and it’s what I’ve been doing for the forest products industry and conservation organizations for 20 years.

Your communications strategy is critical and your messages shouldn’t be passed around a circle, mouth to ear, until they bear little resemblance to the issue. I hear ya… and stand ready to lend a hand