Message aspects
The message is the core element of a message. The editing in speech, writing, and pictures and posture and intonation always contain more than the apparent information. Depending upon intention, these aspects are often considered more or less consciously and incompletely. The message aspects are based on the four-side model of Friedemann Schulz von Thun. On the one hand, it is possible to consider the different parts of formulating the message. On the other hand, the various listener types of the target group are better taken into account
Four aspects form the perspectives: Factual level, Appeal, Relationship, Self-revelation.
- Factual level
contains the figures, data, and facts to be communicated. These objective contents can be checked easily concerning correctness, relevance, and completeness. For example: „Nasty weather is approaching” means on a factual level, „A low-pressure system brings the next hour heavy rain (60 liters per square meter per hour)”. To improve the message, it is preferable to provide specific information, since everybody understands something else as „nasty weather. “
- Self-revelation
presents information that describes the sender. This can be goals, strategies, intentions, etc., communicated without being stated explicitly. For example: „Nasty weather is approaching” means in self-revelation, „I don’t know what that means”. Be aware of your mental state and express it explicitly.
- Relationship
clarifies the relation between sender and receiver from the perspective of the sender. In this case, appear hierarchical differences, affections, and aversions, or customer/supplier relationship. For example: „Nasty weather is approaching” means in a relationship, „Do what I say!“. Underline your understanding of the relationship by defining the role and position of the participants.
- Appeal
News imply expectations of the sender towards the receiver. These can be orders, requests, pleas, or hopes, which stimulate the receivers to do or not to do something, to obey, or to behave freely. For example: „Nasty weather is approaching” means in the appeal „Get sandbags for stabilizing the dyke!“ Always clarify what you expect from all. The more specific the tasks, the better these are settled.
Since all aspects always work, they should at least be checked, or rather be designed.