Ethos Public Relations Manchester

Speak Estonian... or pictogram?

by Sean

Just back from a two week holiday and already it’s almost a distant memory. I do have loads of photos to remind me of where I went and what I did (though a good picture editor would discard the majority) and of course there are the memories. Thankfully, the weather in the Baltic was fantastic and that memory will certainly stay.

As someone interested in good communications and the use of language, I always find it a challenge visiting countries where I can’t speak the language. I always hate having to revert to English (or occasionally German) but visiting six countries does make it unlikely that you can master every language necessary!

For those of you who haven’t visited Tallinn in Estonia, can I wholly recommend you put it high on your list of places to visit? If you have the time, try and learn some of the language first (OK, that might be too difficult for most of us – though I remember sadam is Estonian for port).

Walking through the old town area of Tallinn I happened across this car safety poster recommending the use of seatbelts. Although pretty graphic, it struck me as a great piece of communication. The message is clear, understandable to all and completely to the point.

If you are on holiday soon, have a great time. And remember clunk, click, every trip!

Posted at 11:09am on 19^th August 2010