Communicate Like a Swiftie

How Listening Creates Hits

If communications were pop songs, every consultant would dream of going multi-platinum with employees and clients alike. That’s where Taylor Swift’s style hits all the right notes - and why her method is exactly what today’s teams need to amplify their message and engagement.

Taylor doesn’t just sing about heartbreak and happiness - she gives fans something they recognize from real life, using storytelling that’s personal, honest, and extremely relatable. It’s no wonder her fans are famously loyal. She listens, connects, and delivers not just what she wants, but what her audience truly wants to hear.

In true communications fashion, I hope this article (and my LinkedIn & Instagram posts today) can help you see how T Swift’s playbook can be used for great workplace communications. Just like Taylor, thriving organizations listen to what’s really going on backstage (with your employees). When teams feel like they’re truly heard, company messaging becomes something employees want to sing along with (contribute and be a part of) - because it strikes a chord with what’s relevant to them (and hopefully ties to the success of your organization).

Whether launching a change-management campaign or rolling out a new process, the Taylor Swift approach works anywhere. Express appreciation, share stories everyone can relate to, and invite participation with a sense of genuine gratitude. Sprinkle a few easter eggs (little surprises!) in your corporate updates and deliver messages that carry empathy - not just directives. Then watch your team get excited when they discover the fun little breadcrumbs you left along the way.

So, why communicate like Taylor Swift? Because her secret sauce isn’t just catchy hooks, it’s making people feel heard, understood, and includes them as a chapter of a bigger story. Lead with listening. Drop messages that matter. Watch your whole crowd turn into fans who champion every new verse.

Ready for your next big hit in employee engagement? Step up to the mic like Taylor and let your team’s voices inspire the soundtrack of your success! And, if you have change on the horizon – you know where to find me!

Carry on, Swifties – can’t wait for the wedding invite!

Photo Credit: Mert Alas & Marcus Piggott