So says legendary restaurateur Danny Meyer in a recent article from the New York Times. His logic goes like this: putting employees first helps to attract and retain a more competent and caring staff, which in turn results in a better customer experience over time.

There is much to love about this idea:

• It flies in the face of a familiar “truth:” the customer always comes first
• It works, as you know if you’ve eaten at Danny’s restaurants
• It can be applied to a range of management situations

Let’s apply it to our role as communicators: the audience comes second. While it’s important to carefully consider the audience’s expectations and needs, effective communication starts with you: your ideas, your goals, your voice, your passion. By putting yourself first, you lay the groundwork for moving your audience.