My favourite fictional character is Hercule Poirot – the famous Belgian detective created by Agatha Christie. He is known for his distinct personality and some of his phrases have become memorable.
It got me thinking – what if communicators were to become the Hercule Poirot of their company? Think of this—corporate communicators are often the unseen detectives in the corporate world, piecing together narratives, managing crises, and crafting the brand’s voice. Like Hercule Poirot, they must use their “little grey cells” to navigate complex scenarios and communicate effectively. By embodying Poirot’s traits, communicators can elevate their craft and become master strategists in their field.
The Power of Observation and Attention to Detail
“I am a believer in order and method.”
Hercule Poirot was known for his sharp eye for detail. For corporate communicators, a similar level of precision is essential. Whether crafting a press release, social media post, or internal communication, the smallest error can have significant repercussions.
Take, for instance, the importance of grammar and punctuation. A misplaced comma can transform the entire meaning of a statement. Consider the difference between “We’re hiring, experts in digital marketing” and “We’re hiring experts in digital marketing.” The first suggests the company itself is an expert in digital marketing and is hiring, whereas the second indicates the company is seeking to hire experts in the field. Such nuances can affect the perception of a company’s messaging and credibility. Therefore, attention to detail, much like Poirot’s meticulous approach, is a vital skill for communicators.
The Value of Logic and Critical Thinking
“If you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”
Poirot’s success as a detective lies in his logical and methodical approach. He never jumped to conclusions but instead carefully considered all possibilities. Corporate communicators must also apply critical thinking to their work. When managing a crisis, for instance, communicators need to assess the situation from multiple angles, anticipate potential outcomes, and devise a strategy that addresses the issue without escalating it.
This ability to think several steps ahead is akin to Poirot’s method of reconstructing the crime scene in his mind, considering every variable before arriving at a solution. While preparing a narrative, communicators must ensure all gaps are filled and no inconsistencies remain.
Understanding Human Nature
“It is not the facts that matter, but the psychology of the crime.”
Poirot’s deep understanding of human psychology enabled him to anticipate behaviour and motives. For corporate communicators, understanding their audience—be it employees, customers, or the media—is crucial. This means not only knowing what to say but how and when to say it.
Integrity and Ethical Standards
“I like things to be orderly and symmetrical. Disorder is the enemy of thought.”
Poirot was unwavering in his commitment to justice, holding himself to high ethical standards. Corporate communicators, too, must navigate ethical dilemmas, balancing transparency with confidentiality and ensuring that their messaging aligns with the organisation’s values.
Being the moral compass of an organisation, just as Poirot is in his investigations, is a crucial aspect of effective communication.
Self-Confidence and Self-Awareness
“It is the brain, the little grey cells on which one must rely. One must seek the truth within.”
Poirot’s self-assured demeanour was matched by his awareness of his limitations. He knew when to ask for help and when to trust his instincts. Corporate communicators, too, must have the confidence to make bold decisions and the humility to recognise when they need input from others.
Conclusion
Corporate communicators, like Hercule Poirot, must blend observation, critical thinking, empathy, integrity, and self-awareness to excel in their roles. By honing these traits, they can become the master detectives of their field, solving communication challenges with finesse and precision.
The views and opinions published here belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the publisher.
As an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) from the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and Senior Practitioner (Mentoring) from the European Council of Mentoring and Coaching (EMCC), Sarita specializes in career transition, inner engineering and life issues. Sarita enjoys writing and is passionate about animals, books, and movies.
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