Internal Communications: the Unsung Hero

 

LinkedIn post published on November 9, 2024

The unsung hero of many organizations? Internal communications! This post explains why it matters and offers some tips for healthy internal coms.

We all know it’s essential to keep customers informed, but what about the people working every day to make sure there are customers? Enter internal communications—the glue that holds high-functioning teams together. Without clear comms, employees are basically driving in thick fog with no headlights. And let’s be real: nobody wants to be the team left squinting at the road, unsure of what’s ahead.

Internal communications is just as essential as external communications. It’s the backbone of any business that wants to operate efficiently and create a healthy culture. Without a strong internal strategy, even the best external plans feel like building a house without a foundation.

A key example of how low morale and alienation can hurt a company comes from Sears. Once a retail giant, Sears' slow decline was partly due to poor internal communication. As the company struggled with restructuring, employees felt alienated and disconnected from leadership. A lack of clear, ongoing communication left workers unsure about their roles, contributing to low morale, reduced productivity, and mass exits. A stronger internal coms strategy could have bridged the gap between leadership and employees, fostering trust and alignment. There are many similar examples.

So, how can companies build a strong internal communications program? Here are five suggestions:

1️⃣ Consistency is Key: Regular updates from leadership help keep everyone aligned. Employees shouldn’t have to guess about the company’s direction.

2️⃣ Two-Way Communication: Let employees share feedback and ask questions. One-way comms create silos and frustration.

3️⃣ Personalize the Message: Tailor communication to different teams and departments. Make sure everyone understands how the company’s goals relate to their work.

4️⃣ Make it Accessible: Use multiple channels (email, intranet, meetings) to ensure all employees have access to key messages.

5️⃣ Support Change with Clear Messaging: During times of change, anticipate concerns, provide reassurance, and offer clarity about what changes mean for employees.

Internal coms isn’t just about updates—it’s about building trust and transparency. When people understand the destination, they’re more likely to put the pedal to the metal. Clear communication, empathy, and maybe even humor keep everyone ready for the road ahead, especially in times of crisis and change.

After working with top names like TD Bank, J. Walter Thompson (Ford US account), and Black & McDonald, I’m back in the Chicago area and ready to bring my experience to companies seeking clarity and cohesion. Message me if you’d like to discuss how we can get your employees to be happier, more on board with your goals, and performing at their very best.

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