A recently published paper in the Journal of Participatory Research Methods highlights a solution. Drawing on insights from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Interdisciplinary Research Leaders program, the paper outlines proven strategies for proactive dissemination planning. These strategies offer practical steps to help researchers, improve the reach and influence of their work by:
- Defining clear communication goals
- Identify key audiences, from policymakers to advocacy groups
- Developing messaging strategies that move beyond academic articles to reach decision-makers and inspired action.
The publication, written by Kristin Rosengren, AcademyHealth Vice President of Strategic Communications, and Sarah E. Gollust, Health Policy and Management, University of Minnesota School of Public Health, informed the development of AcademyHealth’s Communicating for Impact course – a three-week course designed to help researchers improve how they share their key findings with key stakeholders.
Why Effective Communication Matters Now More Than Ever:
- Misinformation is spreading faster than ever. Clear, effective communication is essential to ensuring credible research rises above the noise.
- Health policy decisions are happening fast. Policymakers are making critical decisions that will shape health care systems, policy health, and equity outcomes. Without effective communication, important research may never reach those who need it most.
- Funders are demanding more impact. Grantmakers are prioritizing research that demonstrates real-world influence. Knowing how to communicate your findings persuasively can help secure future funding.
- Audiences are overwhelmed. With constant information overload, your research must stand out. Learning to tell compelling stories can help cut through the noise and connect with your audience.
The strategies outlined in the recent publication offer guidance on how to address these challenges – and now you can learn to apply those strategies in AcademyHealth’s Communicating for Impact course.
To help researchers like you meet these challenges, AcademyHealth’s Communicating for Impact course offers practical tools and strategies to maximize your work and ensure it reaches the right audience. Through interactive lessons, expert guidance, and real-world examples, you'll learn how to:
- Identify key audiences and tailor messages that resonate
- Craft powerful stories that connect data to real-life impact
- Develop communication strategies to effectively reach decision-makers, media, and community partners
The course doesn’t just teach theory — it’s practical. You'll receive:
- An actionable audience profile to guide your outreach
- Clear messaging tailored for multiple platforms, including social media
- Templates and tools to streamline your communication efforts
The Communicating for Impact course removes the guesswork from effective communication. The provided templates, resources, and step-by-step guidance simplify the process of turning complex data into compelling narratives that inspire action. You'll learn how to connect the dots between your research and the stories that will resonate with policymakers, health care leaders, and community members.
By mastering these skills now, you’ll position yourself to influence key decisions, secure funding, and ensure your work achieves meaningful change. Don’t miss this opportunity to perfect your communications skills and increase your impact.
Registration closes Thursday, March 27 – register now to secure your spot and turn your insights into action!