Te Whakawhitiwhiti Kōrero ki te Rāngai Tūmatanui
Creating Public Sector Communications
Kia ora, I’m Molly,
Early in my career, I thought communication was just about getting the words right - writing a solid report, delivering a clear presentation. But I’ve come to realise that real communication is doing the basics right. It’s about being clear and understood. Whether I’m briefing Ministers, collaborating with colleagues, or engaging with the public, how I communicate can make or break the message.
Over time, I began to understand something deeper:
We work in a system that relies on trust, transparency, and shared understanding. As public servants, our words matter. They influence decisions, shape relationships, and build (or break) public confidence.
A turning point for me was when I realised communication isn’t a soft skill - it’s a core skill - and it is important we do the basics well. If we’re not clear, purposeful, and adaptable, we risk leaving people confused or disengaged. But when we get it right? That’s when we create impact.
There’s some great learning here to help you understand what good communication looks like. You’re not expected to be a communications expert - that’s the role of professional communications teams - but having a shared understanding of the fundamentals helps us all work better together.
Writing in the Public Sector
These learning assets support public servants to write clearly, concisely, and with purpose.
eLearning
Writing in the Public Sector [PDF, 114KB]
Peer Review
Understanding Risk
These learning assets help public servants recognise and manage risks in their communications.
eLearning
Managing Risk in your Communication [PDF, 112KB]
Conversation Guide
Planning your communication
These learning assets support public servants to plan communications that are clear, purposeful, and aligned with objectives.
eLearning
Planning Your Communication [PDF, 121KB]
Video
eLearning
Understanding your Audience
These learning assets help public servants better identify and understand audience needs, preferences, and contexts - so messages can be shaped in ways that resonate, build trust, and support effective engagement.
Video
Understanding your Audience [PDF, 116KB]
Simplifying Complex Information
These learning assets help public servants turn complex ideas into clear, accessible information.
eLearning