An internal communication strategy within businesses is more than a series of conversations at the water cooler. It’s a vital component of growing a business successfully. Internal communication is the exchange of information within an organization. It can take place in several different ways. Staff meetings are a common description of internal communication. However, employees within an organization may also use memos, phone conversations, data sharing, texts, or apps to share valuable information.
All too often, communication in a workplace depends on information to be passed down a chain of command. This process often means details are lost or some employees are underinformed. For internal communication to be effective, there must be a strategy in place to ensure information is distributed properly. A clearly outlined internal communication strategy gives employees the power to seek the information they need when they need it. When everyone within an organization follows the same strategies, important communications don’t get lost in the corporate grapevine.
6 Reasons You Need a Solid Internal Communications Strategy
Internal communication will naturally occur within any organization. Unfortunately, many companies that fail to implement a strategy for proper internal communication quickly learn how misinformation can damage a business. A strategy is a plan designed to accomplish a goal. Different strategies are necessary for successful business functions. When applied to internal communication, a strategy can achieve multiple goals which come together to promote sales and continued growth within your business.
If your employees aren’t working together productively, your communication strategy (or lack of one) may be to blame. Consider these six reasons every business needs an effective strategy for internal communication.
1. Trust
Clear communication builds trust between coworkers, management, and the customers your business ultimately serves. An effective internal communication strategy is the first step toward building trustworthy business relationships. When internal communication works properly, clear instructions provide the confidence necessary for a job well-done. Additionally, colleagues can build trusting relationships through easily shared information for project collaboration.
2. Engagement
Employee engagement is vital to the success of any business. Employees who believe in the value of what the company has to offer are more productive, less likely to seek new employment and natural advocates for your product or service. An effective communication strategy increases engagement with clear instructions, better relationships between coworkers, and increased trust between management and lower level employees. Employee engagement can improve your business in the following ways:
- Increased production – A Gallup poll revealed that engaged employees are 21% more productive than those who are unsatisfied with their job.
- Decreased absences – Engaged employees are eager to go to work, experience lower stress levels, and enjoy better health.
- Employee retention – Businesses with engaged employees have a lower turnover rate.
- Happier atmosphere – Employees who believe in the values of a company are happy to be a part of the business.
- Increased satisfaction – Engaged employees are passionate about the products they produce and share that enthusiasm with potential customers.
3. Clarity
Vague instructions often make completing a job more difficult than tackling the project with no direction at all. Clearly communicated instructions instill confidence in workers to complete jobs effectively. Additionally, clear communication increases the ability for employees to follow up when they have questions instead of navigating a complicated situation alone. Supervisors who provide clear instructions often take the time to offer feedback on a job well done or additional tips for improvement. The process helps build trust and increase productive business relationships.
4. Unification
The mission of a business is the fundamental reason why it exists. When internal communication flows effectively throughout a company, this mission is clearly understood in every department. Employees who understand and agree with the company mission are more likely to be engaged and enthusiastic about the products and services your company offers. This sincere outlook is passed on to potential customers, generating leads and increasing sales.
5. Important Connections
Internal and external communications are closely linked. Effective internal communication naturally leads to better customer engagement and satisfactory service. Employees who can quickly access the necessary information to answer important questions increase customer confidence in a product. This confidence creates a better customer experience which increases customer retention. When departments within a company communicate seamlessly, better customer communications are the result.
6. New Ideas
An effective internal communication strategy increases confidence among employees. As all levels of workers build trusting relationships, more voices are heard. Employees often have a deeper understanding of what customers are seeking, but rarely have to the opportunity to share this knowledge. A communication strategy should include chances for employees of all levels to offer feedback about company culture and customer satisfaction. Employees who feel valued are more likely to perform better, offer new ideas, and stay with your company longer. Additionally, when employees gain a useful voice inside a company, they often share their enthusiasm outside work as well. When employees share a positive image of their workplace with family and friends or on social media, they generate additional interest from potential customers.
Creating an Effective Strategy
An effective communication strategy requires careful planning. If the form of communication you choose is unclear, overly complicated, or a burden to employees, it’s likely to be avoided. If you’re in the process of implementing an internal communication strategy, look to the people who will be affected for ideas. Hold meetings or conduct surveys to gather employee input about the most convenient types of communication to use during the workday. Make sure your communication strategy is easily accessible to all employees for updates and reminders.
Often, multiple forms of communication combine to create a more effective strategy. Meetings are usually considered a company necessity. However, new technology is increasing convenience and clarity for workplace communications. A business intranet is one way to revolutionize communications within your business. If you’re looking for a personalized communication system designed for your business, contact IC Thrive to learn more about a transparent system that will allow your employees to connect with ease. Transform your internal communications strategy with a system that provides seamless communication to produce a more engaged highly effective workplace.
