Episode 48: The False Summit

Being invited to the decision-making table isn't the same as being required there.

In this episode of the Communications Business Advisor™ Podcast, Tara McDonagh introduces the Communications Team Authority Index, a new framework designed to help communications leaders understand where their teams actually sit on the path from execution to true business advising.

Tara breaks down the four levels of communications authority, including the place many strong teams mistake for the finish line: the false summit. You may be respected, consulted, and invited into the room, but if the decision has already been made, there's still another level of authority to build.

In this episode, Tara explores: The difference between being invited into decision-making and being required there The four levels of the Communications Team Authority Index, from Comms Waitressing to Shaping Decisions Why Level Three: Editing Decisions can feel like the pinnacle, even when it isn't How organizations become conditioned to experience Communications at a certain level Why authority isn't about seniority, tenure, or communications expertise The real goal: moving from reacting to decisions to helping shape them before they're made The distinction is simple but significant: Levels one through three happen after the decision is made. Level four happens before.

You don't have to guess where your team sits. Take the Communications Team Authority Index, a free 10-question assessment, at taramcdonagh.com to identify your current level and what it takes to move forward.

Visit taramcdonagh.com to learn more about working with Tara or  sign up for her newsletter on advancing as a Communications Business Advisor, Level Up: Be Extra, and her Raise the Tide™ emails for women in the field.

This episode is sponsored by Raise the Tide™, a professional development ecosystem for women in communications, helping them grow, connect, and lead with confidence through mentorship, coaching, professional development, and community.

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Until next time, keep advising. Always keep advising.