Effective Internal Communication: But How?

Communication is a word we know all too well. But what does it really mean? Communication is: “the act or process of transmitting information (as about ideas, attitudes, emotions, or objective behaviour)”, Merriam-Webster.com, 2012 Merriam-Webster, Incorporated. Communication is a two way street - not only talking - but listening as well. Communication is a dialogue, not a monologue.

Internal Communication in the office refers to communication between employees and employers, employers and employees and between employees and employees.

But why is it important to communicate successfully internally in an organisation? 

Internal Communication is a critical success factor in any organisation and should feature on each company’s list of priorities. Over the years organisations have learned that employees will discuss work, projects and the culture in the office on a regular basis. It’s far better to set agendas and discussion points than to have uninformed employees discuss topics they know very little about.

Open communication between employers and employees leads to greater engagement on both sides and employees feeling valued and involved in the organisation’s future.  It can lead to increased staff morale and as previously mentioned staff engagement. Internal Communication also affects staff performance and thus the organisation’s ROI, reputation and brand. When staff understand what is required of them on a daily basis staff morale is high and this increases the organisation’s success. Happy employees lead to happy customers.

Internal Communication is also at the forefront when any changes occur in the organisation. Internal changes within the company will only be successful if the staff are involved and consulted during the change process.  Employees need to have a firm understanding of why change is necessary. 

In order to be effective Internal Communication needs to:

1. Communicate business objectives in a clear and precise manner
2. Should be written in easily understandable language
3. The communication’s results should be easily measured
4. Is delivered in a medium and at a time the receiver is happy with 

Benefits of Effective Internal Communication:

1. Greater staff morale, engagement and motivation
2. Better and more effective management
3. Successful external communication as internal communication complements external communication
4. Employees communicate and live the brand’s key priorities and vision, take Apple for example 
5. Staff will feel involved in any changes taking place in the organisation, thus are less likely to leave once these changes occur 
6. Happy and satisfied staff will lead to happy and satisfied customers 
7. Informed decision making

View our Postgraduate Diploma In Internal Communication Management. Or for more details please contact us on 0800 022 3410 or email us with your query: enquiries@capita-ld.co.uk

It’s National Learning at Work Day – 17 May 2012

Why should companies participate in Learning at Work Day and what are the benefits of training employees?

It’s all rather simple: the more people learn the more people can accomplish. Shouldn’t this be every company’s greatest aim? Having a competent and well-trained workforce in place generating revenue showing off their skills and knowledge while doing it? Sounds like a win win situation for both sides…

Let’s look at other benefits of training your employees:

• Training helps your business run better and continuously improve on previous performance.  Well-trained employees will feel at ease and confident with their responsibilities and tasks at work.  A well-trained employee will close that deal, offer outstanding customer service or think out of the box at the next pitch for a major contract. 
• Training promotes self-esteem and confidence in the workplace. Everyone wants to feel needed and appreciated; we also all need to have a purpose. Going home after a day spent not achieving anything at work can be demoralizing, but training and development at work can instil a feeling of achievement and self-worth.  
• Training leads to job satisfaction and fulfilment.  Employees offered training will contribute to the company. The more involved employees are in the organization and decision making process, the greater the rewards for the company. 
• Training is a way of retaining your employees.  By offering training the company creates a culture of loyalty where employees feel appreciated.  Employees will be more likely to stay, learn and grow at your company if opportunities to grow, learn and train are offered on a regular basis.  Which bring us to the next point…
• Training is also an excellent form of recruitment.  Candidates no longer just look at salaries and benefits offered but also consider the training opportunities and career progression offered when considering potential companies to work at. 
• Training employees in multiple sectors in the business can lead to adjustability and greater efficiency at work. Companies should cross-train employees as much as possible in order to fill the gaps when people are ill or absent from work. This will not only help your business but also keep your employees stimulated and engaged. 
• Another great form of training is creating a culture where employees can learn and teach each other.  Sharing skills amongst employees will be like diversifying your investments. 

Companies can’t really afford not to train employees anymore, salaries and benefits are not strong enough incentives. Employees work for different reasons, including job satisfaction, learning new skills, increasing confidence and knowledge at work or building their careers.

For more information on Learning At Work Day please visit the website: Learning at Work Day 17 May 2012

To celebrate Learning At Work Day, Capita Learning and Development is offering 50%-60% discount on selected courses.  Please click here to view our offers