This is how you develop internal communication


Improving internal communication within the organization is important, as it directly affects employee engagement, productivity and the smoothness of the company’s operations. Effective internal communication also helps to avoid misunderstandings, improve cooperation and support the achievement of the organization’s goals. Here are some key ways to improve internal communication:

Create an open and transparent communication culture

Encourage open discussion : Create an atmosphere where employees feel their opinions are valued and they can raise questions and suggestions without fear. Open discussion reduces hierarchies and supports innovation.

Management transparency : The management must be open about the organization’s goals, challenges and decisions. This increases employee confidence and commitment.

Two-way communication : Communication should flow in both directions. Employees should feel that they can influence decision-making and receive feedback on their ideas.

Develop communication channels and tools

Utilizing digital tools : Use digital communication platforms such as Slack, Microsoft Teams or Yammer that facilitate real-time discussion and information sharing.

E-mail optimization : To avoid e-mail flooding, be clear about the purposes for which e-mail is used and when it is better to use other channels, such as instant messages or video meetings.

Intranet : Develop a functional and easy-to-navigate intranet where employees can find important information such as bulletins, resources and instructions. The intranet should be updated and easy to use.

Practical tools for different needs : Different tools can be used for different communication needs – for example, project collaboration tools (Trello, Asana) organize teamwork, while video meetings enable interaction with remote workers.

Clarify communication processes

Communication strategy : Define a clear communication strategy for the organization, which covers who is responsible for communication, when to communicate, which channels are used and how the messages are formulated.

Regular briefings : Schedule regular updates and briefings, such as weekly meetings or monthly newsletters, to keep employees informed about the organization’s status and projects.

Clear messages : Messages should be short, concise and clear. Unclear messages can cause misunderstandings and unnecessary burden.

Promote cooperation and team communication

Team meetings : Hold regular team meetings to review the team’s goals, challenges and progress. This promotes cooperation between teams and creates an opportunity for information sharing.

Cross-functional teamwork : Create opportunities for communication and cooperation between different teams. This can happen through project teams, where employees from different departments work together to achieve common goals.

Role Clarity : Make sure everyone has a clear understanding of their role and who they should interact with at different stages of the project.

Provide training to improve communication skills

Communication trainings : Organize trainings that focus on effective communication skills such as listening, giving and receiving feedback, and clear communication.

Giving and receiving feedback : Teach employees how to give and receive constructive feedback. Good feedback increases efficiency and strengthens team spirit.

Take advantage of feedback and employee surveys

Regular feedback surveys : Ask employees for feedback on the functionality of communication and listen to their suggestions for improvements. The perspectives of the employees are valuable, as they are the target group of the communication.

Quick response to feedback : When you receive feedback about communication problems, act quickly and resolve them. This shows that you value employees’ opinions and improve their working conditions.

Use leaders as communication role models

The role of managers : Managers should set an example of good communication practices, whether it’s about open discussion, giving feedback, or paying attention to employees.

Support for supervisors in communication : Ensure supervisors are trained to communicate clearly with their teams and maintain open communication.

Reinforce the organization’s values ​​and communicate the goals

Communicating values ​​: Ensure that the organization’s values ​​and goals are regularly communicated to all employees. This helps unite employees towards a common goal.

Communication in line with strategy : Communication is more effective when it is directly related to the organization’s strategy and goals. This gives employees a clear understanding of where the organization is going and how their work affects the whole.

Take advantage of visual and multi-channel communication

Visual materials : Use infographics, videos and images that make communication easier to understand and interesting.

Multi-channel approach : Use different channels such as intranet, emails, instant messages and face-to-face meetings to ensure that the message reaches all employees regardless of their role or location.

Ensure the inclusion of remote workers

Utilizing digital tools : Use video conferencing and communication platforms such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams to keep remote workers involved in conversations and decision-making.

Virtual coffee rooms : Organize informal virtual meetings where remote workers can exchange information and create social connections with their colleagues.

Finally

Improving communication within the organization requires the implementation of clear communication processes and tools, the creation of an open culture and the active participation of employees in the communication process. Management’s example, listening to employees and multi-channel communication strengthen the organization’s communication, which in turn improves efficiency and job satisfaction.



Janne Gylling
Creative Director • janne@jannegylling.fi