How to be an Authentic Communicator (in Your Personal and Professional Life) with Anthony Hayes

“In order to be an authentic communicator, to be heard and to get to the point you have to be willing to see and hear whatever criticism may be coming at you and not necessarily internalize it and personalize it.” - Anthony HayesWhether you’re in business, a community leader or a political candidate, at some time in your life you may experience a communication crisis. It is during these times that possessing the skills to communicate not only effectively, but authentically to your audience, is of utmost importance. Today’s special Brave By Design guest is an expert in the field of crisis management, and not only does he share his advice on how to be an authentic communicator, but you’ll also hear his fascinating backstory, his experiences in the industry and his thoughts and opinions on timely topics such as social change and “cancel culture.” Anthony Hayes has spent more than 15 years in communications, crisis and issue management and political and legislative campaigns. He founded The Hayes Initiative to apply his experience steering organizations’ public affairs and media relations to clients across business, politics, nonprofits, and philanthropy. A seasoned C-level advisor, Anthony has cultivated an energetic, fast-growing company now trusted to execute strategy for prominent clients around the globe.The Hayes Initiative (THI) is a full-service public affairs firm providing strategic counsel and support on a range of needs including communications, media outreach, crisis management, government and community relations, and event planning. They help leaders and organizations deliver major initiatives, break through the noisy media landscape, and navigate the world of politics and government. They excel with high pressure, politically sensitive, and confidential issues while demonstrating the utmost level of discretion and judgment. As an LGBTQ owned and operated firm, they are proud of their work in the advocacy space and of their efforts to help organizations realize inclusivity at all levels of their work.Connect with Anthony: https://hayesinitiative.com/Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE wherever you listen to podcasts!What You’ll Hear In This Episode: How Anthony’s turned his greatest challenge as a young child into his greatest asset as an entrepreneur [3:11]His thoughts on being aware of how you are being received by others [6:27]The damaging impact on your organization when you don’t speak up and be the change you want to see in the world [15:15]Anthony’s powerful lessons learned from working with big names and top politicians [21:39]His perspective on “cancel culture” [30:01]Tips and strategies for “getting to the point” when communicating [37:27]Additional Links & Resources:Anthony’s LinkedIn & Email What Happened by Hillary Rodham ClintonSupport the show