1. www.com-matters.org Learn www.com-matters.org

2. Learn  Learning is about internalizing what you hear and engaging in true self-reflection before proceeding with any outbound message  There is much to be learned from internal audiences—your colleagues, peers, and partners can shed insight that external audiences cannot.  Learning also takes time—lots and lots of time. Communicating is an active process comprised of three dynamic and mutually reinforcing actions. Learning follows listening, but is equally important. Both listening and learning are prerequisites for sharing.

3. www.com-matters.org Learn www.com-matters.org Learn 73% Percentage of survey respondents who wish they had more data to prove that communication investments are worth making.

4. www.com-matters.org Learn www.com-matters.org Learn 44% Percentage of survey respondents who say their organization always or often communicates to share learning about what has and has not worked.

5. www.com-matters.org Learn www.com-matters.org Learn 44 Number of years it took to go from one state where marriage is legal for all couples, to 19.

6. www.com-matters.org Learn “ “Improving an organization's communications capacity can create organizational cohesion, concentrate focus, and reinforce shared values.” PROGRAM LEADER Private Foundation

7. www.com-matters.org Learn “ "Communication moves at a fast pace. The foundation world does not. And so opportunities are missed.” COMMUNICATION LEADER Private Foundation

8. www.com-matters.org Learn “ “There is a dynamic tension between communication and programs. Communication feels that what program wants to say is too boring, wonky, complex. Program feels communication is stretching the truth by trying to simplify.” COMMUNICATION LEADER Nonprofit

9. www.com-matters.org Learn How do you learn from internal and external audiences?

10. www.com-matters.org Learn What do you do to encourage self-reflection?

11. www.com-matters.org Learn Are you receptive to what your audience can teach you?