Effective Communication for Local Government

Guest InformationMark Zeigler, Senior Lecturer and Director of First-Year Experience Programs, Florida State UniversityDesiree Casanova, Assistant to the County Administrator, Sarasota Florida TakeawaysEffective communication requires understanding the past, present, and future of interactions.Empathy is crucial in communication, especially in local government settings.Nonverbal communication can account for a significant portion of the message conveyed.Follow-up communication is essential to show that you value the conversation.Personalized responses can significantly improve public trust in government.Active listening involves not just hearing but understanding the speaker's message.Tailoring communication styles to the audience can enhance understanding and cooperation.Silence can be detrimental; addressing issues directly is important.Building trust takes time and requires consistent, genuine interactions.Stories can be powerful tools to connect with skeptical audiences. ChaptersIntroduction to Effective CommunicationPhilosophical Foundations of CommunicationUnderstanding Roles in CommunicationEmpathy and Active ListeningNonverbal Communication TechniquesThe Power of Follow-Up CommunicationPersonalized Responses in Local GovernmentTailoring Communication StylesResources from ICMA Learning LabSelf-Paced Online Course: Communicating with Elected Officials, Staff, and the MediaFree On-demand Webinar: Improving Trust and Transparency with Better Public Communications