Wikipedia
defines internal communications as, "the function responsible
for effective communication among participants within an
organization." But what does that really mean?
It means that we have an incredible and important role in the
way a business functions. Today, we're breaking that role down into
its four most basic and crucial tasks.
Internal communications is…
Relationship building. As a company grows, so,
too, does the distinction among its employees. In order for an
organization to maintain any semblance of culture, internal
communications must strive to bring these individuals together and
encourage them to grow their relationships. This can be achieved
through information sharing, whether online or in person, as well
as the creation of a list of shared values that ties all employees
together in working toward a common goal.
Gap bridging. For the success of any business
there must be many moving parts. The accounting and legal
departments must be kept apprised of what is going on in sales and
marketing, and vice versa. Internal communications helps bridge the
gap that naturally occurs among employees working in different
areas of the company. Our goal is to teach every employee about the
specific contributions of each team member toward their
success.
Employee motivating. There is nothing more
important to internal communications than motivating and engaging
the employees it serves. Showcasing accomplishments,
telling stories and staying honest and true to the company's
core values ensure we are constantly working to empower employees
to go out and spread the message and mission of the
organization.
Fact sharing. At the end of the day, it's an
internal communicator's job to share facts. To communicate the
brand, its objectives and values - to tell people what's working
and where we could improve. Authenticity goes a long way in
building credibility and rapport among our listeners. So long as we
possess important information, it is our duty to disseminate
it.
Armed with this knowledge, internal communications becomes much
more than just another business function. It can be the difference
between positive and negative relationships, effective
communication and, most important, a happy and motivating work
environment.
How would you define internal communications? What would
you add to this list?