When working with leaders of successful organizations, I try to learn as much as possible about their secret for success. The information I receive is usually more subtle, and generally less complicated, than expected. Their success stories are shared simply and eloquently, and follow a common theme:

• 1. Trust your team.
• 2. Make decisions immediately to the best of your ability.
• 3. Set a course and get out of the way.
• 4. Be approachable.
5. Truly care about the people around you.

Sometimes I find myself wondering...Is that it? What about Strategy? Vision? Design?

Yes, most great leaders do have knowledge in those areas, but I have seen leaders with great people management skills and a genuine respect for individuals successfully grow their organizations even if their strategy, vision, or design are slightly "less than perfect".

As your company grows, and you begin to implement more complex corporate communication strategies, it's time to consider how to best to communicate your message. My experience as a video producer indicates that showcasing those same traits that make you a great leader through video, webcasts, and corporate events, will create a more compelling and effective message.

Corporate communications should not only be an extension of your brand, your marketing message, and your vision, but an extension of your personality. After all, personality is part of what creates corporate culture.

People respond best to people, and by incorporating your personality (or the personality of your business) into your message, you will build a better rapport with your audience.

I have been fortunate enough to work with some great business leaders, and have gained many insights from them. I have learned how to manage my business more effectively, and the value of establishing trust based relationships with my team and my clients. I have also learned that great interpersonal skills almost always elicit a genuinely positive response.

Producing media that delivers positive outcomes can sometimes be an inexact science, but reaching your audience effectively is easier when employing techniques that highlight your strengths, personality, and other traits that have made your company successful.

Presenting your business as an extension of your personality will showcase the attributes that make your company successful and personalize your message. Good results will surely follow.