Messaging, proposition & voice · Core
Core message
Also called: key message
ELI5
The central idea a communication should leave with its audience.
Used in conversation
“The brief needs to say which audience should remember core message.”
Pitch context
You will see “Core message” in brand decks, campaign plans, research reports and performance reviews when the discussion reaches messaging, proposition & voice.
Why it matters: In messaging, proposition & voice, a loose definition can change rights, obligations, approval, disclosure or enforceability.
Caution
Meaning, enforceability and required process vary by jurisdiction and agreement; this definition is not legal advice.
Connected terms
- Key messageThe search label “Core message” can route to both entries.
Sources & evidence · 5
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- American Marketing Association — Definitions of Marketing and BrandDirect source · institutional · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Federal Trade Commission — Advertising and Marketing GuidanceDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Google Analytics Help — Google Analytics dimensions and metricsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Google Ads Help — Google Ads metrics and reportingSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Interactive Advertising Bureau — Measurement guidelines and standardsSupporting source family · institutional · checked 2026-08-16