Knowing your audience is one of the most important principles of effective communication because the same message can land very differently depending on who you're speaking to. In this conversation, screenwriter Rhett Reese talks about why it's essential to understand your audience before you communicate, and how tailoring your message to your audience can make your ideas clearer, more relevant, and more impactful. If you're presenting an idea, telling a story, or having a conversation, understanding your audience's needs, expectations, and perspective can help you choose the right words, tone, examples, and level of detail to make your message resonate.