Insights

In the summer of 1776, five men, led by Thomas Jefferson, were tasked with drafting a document that would clearly enumerate the series of transgressions that ultimately led to the 13 American colonies separating from Great Britain. That document, The Declaration of Independence, is widely viewed as an “eloquent expression of liberty, equality and democracy upon which our country was founded.”

At the time of the Declaration’s writing, Jefferson, the principle author, was largely an ineffective and awkward public speaker. However, it was his skill as a gifted writer that ultimately led to his being unanimously appointed by the other members of the drafting committee, to solely pen the initial document. The final draft was then presented to the committee and the Continental Congress for evaluation and discussion. Throughout a series of reviews and revisions a total of one-fifth of Jefferson’s document was modified, however, the preamble, a stirring introduction that resonates in hearts and minds to this day, remained untouched.

The value of the Declaration and the lessons we can learn from it are practically innumerable, not the least of which are lessons on impactful and insightful communication. The following three truths about effective communication are drawn from the Declaration of Independence.

Know Your Message

In the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson lays out a clear list of 27 specific grievances committed by the British crown on the inhabitants of the 13 colonies. Moreover, while citing both natural and legal rights, Jefferson clearly asserts the thesis of the declaration: the independence of America. This brings us to the first lesson, know your message.

Understanding what you are communicating, whether in written or spoken context, is of the utmost importance. Your message and purpose must be explicitly clear to affirm that what is received by the audience is the message you intend to deliver. Be clear, be direct, be specific.

Know Your Audience

The second communication lesson we can draw from the Declaration of Independence is to know your audience. The primary audience of the declaration was the British monarchy, specifically King George III. Beyond the monarchy, a secondary audience of American citizens was also addressed. The content needed to communicate, to all necessary parties, the reasoning for the action taken by the United States. This was to be a rallying cry and a line in the sand.

In order to communicate effectively, you must consider your audience. Are you speaking in clear terms that are universally understood? Are you adjusting your word choice to remove barriers to communication (i.e. figures of speech, industry jargon, etc.)? Is the intended message being received by your audience?

Ask for Feedback

Thomas Jefferson was not widely recognized as the author of the declaration until 1790. While Jefferson is, appropriately so, viewed as the document’s author, he did not communicate in a vacuum. After the initial draft was penned, the 4 other members of the writing committee were given an opportunity to revise the product. As a matter of fact, Benjamin Franklin suggested changing “We hold these truths to be sacred and undeniable” to “We hold these truths to be self-evident”. After the smaller committee suggested changes, the Continental Congress was given an opportunity to revise the final product before it was officially ratified.

In the same way, seeking advice and input from peers, experts and co-workers ensures that our communication is as clear and impactful as possible. All too often personal objectivity is lost, and the insight of others is invaluable in providing the best product possible.

As you enjoy a day off celebrating our nation’s birth, I would encourage you to read this foundational document and consider what other communication lessons can you draw from the Declaration of Independence? Perhaps you will gain profound insight. Perhaps you will just become reacquainted with the powerful, impactful words of the declaration. Either way, it will be a few minutes well spent.

Happy Independence Day!