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The Strategic Power of Internal Communications When Combined With HR
Internal communications has become a critical component of organizational success. With social justice movements, political events, and wars worldwide, having professionals on your team who can help you navigate employee questions and comments cannot be understated.
Prioritizing internal communications can help you manage all of this and more.
The Strategic Importance of Internal Communications
Internal communications are pivotal in aligning an organization’s workforce with its strategic goals, culture, and values. This week’s podcast guest, Mike Klein, emphasizes that effective internal communication is more than just disseminating information—it’s about building trust, fostering engagement, and ensuring that all employees are on the same page, particularly during times of change or crisis.
“When internal communications are aligned with the organization’s objectives, they can serve as a powerful tool to reinforce the company’s mission and values,” says Klein. “This alignment is crucial for maintaining employee morale and ensuring everyone is working towards the same goals.”
Navigating Global Events Through Internal Communications
Global events—be they political, economic, or social—can be polarizing and difficult. Internal communicators are instrumental in guiding employees through these events, providing clarity and reducing uncertainty. During times of crisis, whether it’s a pandemic, political unrest, or economic downturn, clear and empathetic communication can make the difference between an engaged workforce and one that is disengaged and anxious.
Klein points out that during such events, internal communications should provide timely updates, offer reassurance, and keep the organization’s workforce informed about how the company is responding.
“It’s about creating a narrative that aligns with the reality of the situation while also providing a sense of direction and purpose,” he explains.
For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies relied on their internal communications teams to inform employees about health guidelines, remote work policies, and business continuity plans. These communications were essential in helping employees adjust to new working conditions and maintaining productivity during global uncertainty.
The Effect of AI on the Entire Organization
Artificial intelligence is transforming many aspects of business, including internal communications. AI-powered tools are being used to streamline communication processes, analyze employee sentiment, and even personalize communications based on individual preferences and behaviors. However, while AI offers significant efficiencies, it also presents challenges that internal communications professionals must navigate.
One key advantage of AI in internal communications is its ability to handle routine tasks, such as drafting and sending messages, managing communication platforms, and analyzing engagement data. This allows internal communications teams to focus on more strategic initiatives, such as crafting messages that resonate with employees and addressing specific communication needs within the organization.
However, Klein warns that the increasing use of AI in communications should not come at the expense of the human touch.
“AI can help with the mechanics of communication, but it cannot replace the authenticity and empathy critical to effective internal communications,” he says. “Organizations must balance leveraging AI for efficiency and ensuring that their communications remain genuine and human-centric.”
AI can also help identify communication gaps and provide insights into how different messages are received across various workforce segments. For example, sentiment analysis tools can gauge employee reactions to internal communications, allowing HR and internal communications teams to adjust their strategies in real time.
Actionable Advice for HR Professionals
Working closely with internal communications teams is essential for HR professionals to ensure that communication strategies align with broader HR goals and contribute to a positive workplace culture. Here are some actionable steps HR professionals can take to enhance their collaboration with internal communications:
- Foster a Collaborative Relationship: HR and internal communications teams should collaborate to develop communication strategies that address organizational objectives and employee needs. Regular meetings and joint planning sessions can help ensure alignment and foster a strong partnership.
- Leverage Data for Informed Decisions: Utilize AI tools and analytics to gather data on employee engagement and sentiment. This data can provide valuable insights into how well communications resonate with employees and where adjustments may be needed.
- Prioritize Transparency and Authenticity: Employees value transparency and honesty in times of uncertainty. HR professionals should work with internal communications to ensure that messages are clear, consistent, and authentic. This approach helps build trust and credibility.
- Provide Training and Resources: As the internal communications landscape evolves, HR can support internal communications teams by providing access to training and resources on new tools and technologies, including AI. This ensures that teams are equipped to handle the demands of modern communication strategies.
- Encourage Feedback and Open Dialogue: Create channels for employees to provide feedback on internal communications. This feedback can be invaluable in refining communication strategies and ensuring that they meet the workforce’s needs.
The Future of Internal Communications
As businesses continue to navigate a complex and dynamic environment, the role of internal communications will only grow in importance. Integrating AI and other advanced technologies offers exciting possibilities but also requires a careful balance to ensure that communication remains human-centered.
Klein believes the future of internal communications will involve a greater emphasis on personalization and employee engagement.
“Employees are looking for more than just information—they want to feel connected to their organization’s mission and values,” he says. “The challenge for internal communications will be to deliver messages that resonate on a personal level while also supporting the organization’s broader goals.”
Ultimately, the key to successful internal communications lies in its ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining a focus on the human element.
By prioritizing transparency, fostering collaboration between HR and communications teams, and leveraging the power of AI, organizations can navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and build a more engaged and resilient workforce.