Join Matt Abrahams, a lecturer of Strategic Communication at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he sits down with experts in the field to discuss real-world challenges. How do I send my message clearly when put on the spot? How do I write emails to get my point across? How can I easily convey complex information? How do I manage my reputation? Whether you’re giving a toast or presenting in a meeting, communication is critical to success in business and in life.Think Fast, Talk Smart provides the tools, techniques, and best practices to help you communicate more effectively.
303. On Point, On Brand: Why Honest Communication Always Lands
"You want to own the message and your narrative."
Strong communication is about more than delivering a message—it’s about building trust over time. As Zoom’s Chief Marketing Officer, Kim Storin has helped shape communication at one of the world’s most recognizable brands, balancing empathy, transparency, and consistency in an era of rapid technological change. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Storin joins Matt Abrahams to discuss how leaders can communicate with authenticity, navigate crises with clarity, and build cultures rooted in transparency. They explore the art and science of shaping perception, maintaining connection in hybrid workplaces, and creating messages that solve problems—not just capture attention.
Key Takeaways:
- Lead with authenticity and transparency. Clear, honest communication builds trust—especially during periods of change or crisis.
- Own your narrative. Consistent messaging and a clear story shape how others understand your brand, team, or ideas.
Activity:
- Before your next team update or difficult conversation, ask yourself: "What information can I share that will build trust?" Include one additional point of context or reasoning that helps your audience better understand the decision.
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Chapters:
- (00:00) - Introduction
- (01:37) - Leading Through a Global Crisis
- (03:36) - Changing Brand Perception
- (06:50) - Building Culture at Scale
- (09:00) - Virtual Communication Gains & Losses
- (11:24) - Creating Meaningful Moments
- (12:34) - Communicating Through Difficulty
- (16:03) - The Final Three Questions
- (21:33) - Conclusion
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