International IABC President Julie Freeman was the feature presenter at our monthly chapter meeting on May 19. Her astute discussion of contemporary communications leadership hit on some key points for communicators of all stripes. Julie pointed out that the proliferation of communications tools, from cell phones to Facebook, have changed the old “command & control” model of leadership into one of “listen & learn.”  The mandate for companies is to build trust in their brands by participating in the conversation with key stakeholders. According to Julie, companies and organizations are also compelled to enable employees to develop a “clear line of sight” from their individual jobs to the corporate mission, through opportunities to engage with senior management.

Attendees made great use of the ensuing discussion period, and all indicators suggest that Long Island communicators are ahead of the curve on putting Julie’s wise advice into action!