Honest and open communication of Zlatko Dalić has contributed to the success of the Croatian national team at the FIFA World Cup. This is the opinion of many communication experts, including those from the jury of Grand PRix awards of the Croatian Public Relations Association – HUOJ. That’s why the popular football coach has been nominated for the Communicator of the Year title.
“By projecting the image of ‘one of us’, with his openness, composure, and determination, he shared success with others, and took on himself the responsibility for problems. He solved crisis situations before and during the championship in a manner of an experienced communications expert, keeping up the team spirit and preserving the dignity of his players. He did not run away from problems, he called them their real name and communicated unusually honestly and directly. For the duration of the world championship he left the impression that he had said exactly what he was supposed to say. At a time when Croatia was chronically lacking excellent communicators and high-quality leaders, he communicated in a way that united Croatia for at least some time,” said Maja Gradišar Perotić, president of the 12th Grand PRix jury.
She added that Dalić, even after the euphoria settled down, remained committed to open communication, and because of his sincerity, as every other publicly prominent individual in Croatia, his attitudes to certain topics provoked divided reactions.
“I did not consider my communication as anything special, and I am glad that the profession has rated me as good. It’s kind of natural to me. I think that in communication, the most important things are sincerity, truth and openness. It is also very important to respect your interlocutor, be concise, clear and honest. You do not have to be afraid of communication because the truth always surfaces. You should be responsible and open, be prepared for both praise and criticism,” said Zlatko Dalić.
In the finals for the title of the Communicator of the Year, Dalić faces Vojko V, Igor Rudan, Petar Stipetić and Tvrtko Barun. Who will receive the prestigious title will be announced at the Grand PRix ceremony on Wednesday, March 13, 2019 in Zagreb.
