In order to function and operate effectively and efficiently, all organizations need to strengthen their internal communications. Through the use of an internal communication strategy template or communication tool, employees should be able to feel that they can openly and actively communicate with other colleagues, managers and leaders. Open lines of communication not only increases productivity, but also motivates employees and makes them feel more engaged to their work and to the company.
The following are some tips you can opt for if you want to improve and strengthen the internal communications in your workplace:
1. Make sure that the mission and vision of the company are clear.
When employees know the mission and vision of the organization, they can align themselves and the work they do with them. Make sure to take the time you need to fully explain these two important things to your employees as either part of their corporate training or as a regular reminder. No matter the internal communication strategy template or tool you use, you have to make sure that employees are unified in their understanding of the mission and vision of the company so that everyone in the business is working towards the same specific goals.
2. Allow “sticky” information to be accessible to all employees.
“Sticky” information or internal knowledge should be accessible and understandable to all employees. This information may take some time to understand due to the fact that there are tons of details that are more likely included in it, such as work processes and preparing documents. Make sure that you help staff members learn what they need to as fast as possible through training programs and internal documents which they can use for reference.
3. Strengthen the connections between those who belong in the company.
Through an internal communication strategy template or communication tool, learn how to strengthen and improve communication between colleagues and between employees and their managers. Issues such as this should be brought up during management training programs in particular. Managers and leaders should learn the importance of communicating with and listening to their employees. It is during occasions that managers become active listeners do staff members feel more valued, and therefore, more connected.
4. Encourage the sharing of information.
Utilize tools such as the intranet to share information with employees on a regular basis. Tools such as the intranet also gives employees the opportunity to share with others what they know and will motivate them to stay involve.
5. Create an open dialogue.
Make sure that no matter the internal communication strategy template or communication tool you opt for, you always find a way to keep your employees up to date regarding what is going on in the company. Tools can include newsletters, digital signage, or even the traditional face-to-face meetings. Allow employees to actively participate in these discussions and interactions. Urge them to ask questions and to give their comments. Remember that staff members are more likely to communicate well if they feel that their voices are heard and what they have to say will actually have an impact on where the company is heading.
6. Utilize project management tools.
Project management tools not only help you keep track of the progress of a project, it also facilitates effective and efficient communication. Project management tools and other online applications can save teams a lot of time and helps document the work they are doing.
7. Plan external events.
Create events outside of work wherein employees and managers can get to know each other more. Plan a party during the holidays or happy hour wafter work. Not only will this give employees something to look forward to, it can also help in improving and strengthening communication.
