Why you should invest in internal comms

If we told you that internal communications is just as important as external communications, would you believe us? For many businesses, external communications often takes priority. Companies invest significant time and budget to strengthen their external profile and reputation and communicating internally to staff, Trustees or volunteers often slips through the net.

So what is internal communications, why is it important and how should you go about it? Let us try to convince you why it’s vital…

What is internal communications?
In a nutshell, internal communications refers to the way a business shares information predominantly with its employees. This can include financial updates, business strategy, restructures, staff achievements, new product and service launches, events and training opportunities.

You can communicate through a variety of communications channels and this depends on the size of your business, how your business is made up, such as whether it’s a office-based business or you have staff working on shop floors or at manufacturing sites. Types of channels often at businesses’ disposal are team meetings, newsletters, intranet platforms, emails, noticeboards and larger town hall style events.

Why is internal communications important?
Strong internal communications play a vital role in building an engaged, motivated and productive workforce. In fact, businesses that communicate clearly with staff often have improved company culture, good employee retention and better overall business performance. Effective internal communications help employees feel informed, valued and connected to the wider business. But why should you bother investing in it?

Your employees are your ambassadors
Your employees are your biggest advocates and often the face of your business. Every interaction they have with customers, suppliers and stakeholders reflects your company culture and values. If staff feel disconnected or uninformed, this can negatively impact customer experience and brand perception. If they don’t believe or understand what you do, then it will be hard to convince or communicate with other stakeholders.

Increases productivity
Good communication helps employees feel included and appreciated, and businesses often see increased productivity, better teamwork and higher levels of motivation. Regular updates and open communication channels can improve trust between management and staff, helping employees feel that their opinions and contributions matter. It is also an opportunity to ask questions and helps businesses road test and iron out any issues before you go public with an announcement.

Helps manage change better
During periods of growth or change, communication becomes even more important. Whether introducing new systems, restructuring teams or launching new services, keeping employees informed helps reduce uncertainty and maintain morale. Transparent communication also helps businesses manage change more effectively by ensuring employees understand the reasons behind decisions and how changes may impact them.

Businesses that regularly communicate with employees often create a more collaborative and supportive working environment, which can improve staff retention and also importantly, attract new talent.

Internal and external communications should work together
Internal and external communications should not be treated separately. In fact, they should be aligned and the golden rule is you should communicate with your staff first and external stakeholders, such as the media, second.

A strong internal communications strategy can also support external marketing efforts. Employees who feel informed and engaged are more likely to share company news via their own social media channels and recommend you to family and friends. By giving internal communications the same level of attention as external communications, businesses can create stronger foundations for success.