Simplicity in Strategic Communications: The Key to Impactful Messaging

When it comes to crafting messages that resonate, less is more. Early in my career, I learned this the hard way: pouring hours into complex strategies only to realize that simplicity was the missing ingredient. Today, I want to share how simplicity has shaped my approach to strategic communications—and why it should be a cornerstone of yours too.

The Power of Clarity

  • Audiences are overwhelmed with information. Clear, concise messages cut through the noise.

  • The most successful campaign I’ve ever done to date was eight words long. Imagine writing a long strategy plan behind a campaign, and the

How to Simplify Without Oversimplifying

  • Know your audience deeply. Speak their language.

  • Prioritize the "must-knows" over the "nice-to-knows."

Actionable Tips for Crafting Simple Messages

  • Focus on one idea per message.

  • Use plain language—leave jargon behind.

  • Test your message: If you can’t explain it to a colleague in 10 seconds, it’s too complicated.


Simplicity doesn’t mean stripping away meaning; it means delivering your message in a way that’s clear, memorable, and actionable. As communicators, our goal is to connect, inspire, and drive action—and simplicity is the key to achieving that.

Darren Whetstone

PR pro, mama, and content creator sharing the real-life balance between motherhood, work, and everything in between.

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