By: Yliana Vilella
When planning communication, companies often focus on external stakeholders – clients and customers. However, one key audience frequently overlooked is the internal audience – the employees and stakeholders within the organization and critical messaging vital to their involvement and understanding. Internal communication also plays a crucial role in organizational success, serving as the vital link between the goals of the organization and individuals who can influence and contribute to its success.
Achieving productive internal communication is a process that takes time and effort, and we’ve broken that down into three key tips for success. First, understanding the pulse of your internal audience is crucial, and it begins with active listening. By attentively tuning into employees’ needs and wants or experiences and concerns, leaders can build a foundation for effective communication. This understanding sets the stage for providing valuable information and tools that cater to the specific needs of this internal audience. A company that invests time in comprehending its workforce is better equipped to create a communication strategy that resonates with its internal audience, therefore having a better impact on its external audience.
The second best practice involves continuous engagement – once an open communication system is established, it must be maintained. Leaders must foster a culture of consistent communication, actively listening, taking action, and repeating the cycle. This process solidifies the connection between leaders and their internal audience, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration. This communication can be about internal-only topics and about external topics or communication campaigns.
Finally, various channels can be employed to facilitate effective internal communication. Regular meetings, newsletters, and luncheons provide structured forums for information dissemination and two-way open communication. Consider how you can meet employees where they are and what channels they are most likely to use/look at. Leaders must tailor their communication methods and channels to suit the preferences of their team, allowing for a dynamic and evolving relationship.
In conclusion, internal communication is a cornerstone of organizational success. By actively listening, understanding the needs of the internal audience, and fostering ongoing communication, companies can create a positive workplace culture, enhancing their public image and empowering employees to represent the organization effectively. In the bustling business world, investing in internal communication is an investment in sustained success.
Our team are pros at not only external communication, but internal as well. Need some help? Reach out!