2/19/26: 3x3x3 on Audience Identification and Writing Process

Overview of Step Two in the Three by Three Writing Process

  • Focus on audience identification

  • Activity for audience identification

  • Expectation of limited coverage of slides

Audience Identification

  • Importance of anticipating the audience for effective communication

  • Individual or partner/group activity format encouraged

Activity Instructions

  • Access learning activity titled 'Audience Identification Communication Flow' on Canvas

  • Focus on types of communication:

    • Upward communication

    • Downward communication

    • Lateral (or horizontal) communication

  • Submit responses via Google Form, even if collaborating

  • Time allocated for activity: approximately twenty minutes

Types of Communication

  • Upward Communication:

    • Communication that flows from subordinates to superiors

  • Downward Communication:

    • Communication that flows from superiors to subordinates

  • Lateral (Horizontal) Communication:

    • Peer-to-peer communication

Example Scenario from Activity

  • Example: President holds a meeting to inform about new company acquisitions and increased responsibilities for employees.

    • Primary communication type: Downward

    • Secondary communication type if questions are asked: Upward

Submission and Grading Instructions

  • Submit personal Google forms

  • First question worth two points emphasizes singular correct answer

  • Multi-answer questions require a submission of both correct answers if applicable

Note-Taking and Record Keeping

  • Importance of keeping a work notebook for anecdotal notes in business contexts

    • Document date, time, speaker, and general content discussed

    • Helpful for validating information used within reports and presentations

Documentation of Sources

  • Citing sources for research in APA, MLA, etc. styles generally not expected within internal communications

  • Note taking is essential for personalized reference and verification

Drafting Phase in Writing Campaign

  • Importance of structuring communications starting with a direct approach unless otherwise stated

  • Essential question: What does the audience need to know?

    • Consider the action required from the audience, when to be completed, and how to respond

  • Utilize a clear narrative flow focused on main points up front

Research in Communication

  • Secondary research predominantly applied, primary research through surveys primarily within marketing roles

  • Practical insights on organizational needs and expectations to ensure message clarity

Understanding the Audience Needs

  • Recognizing the urgency of communication and consequences of inaction

  • Potential for negative responses should include a declaration of actions expected upon no response

  • Effective communication considers audience perspective and prior knowledge

Writing Strategy

  • Develop concise and clear communication that respects audience’s time

  • Utilize active voice: Subject adjacent to verb for engaging content

    • Example: "The dog walked" versus "He walked the dog"

  • Aim for direct communication over passive structures

Conclusion and Further Instructions

  • Importance of grammar clarity and readiness in professional writing

  • Recognizing the difference between passive and active voice in sentence structure

  • Keep in mind the necessity of clear audience engagement throughout the writing process.

  • Document and prepare for the next class focusing on idea generation for effective drafting.