Eight Internal Communication Methods To Enhance Employee Engagement In 2023

Despite living in a world defined by instant messaging, international video calling, and remote jobs, employees today are more disconnected than ever. Internal communication remains a weak point for many organizations as they struggle to not only bridge the gap between their employees and keep them informed, but also promote active engagement and involvement on a day-to-day basis.

This article will delve into the topic of internal communication, explain why it's important, and outline eight powerful ways to leverage it in favor of the employee experience.

‍

Understanding Internal Communication

In the business world, internal communication refers to the tools used within a company to stay connected and collaborate on tasks, projects, and goals. When done properly, internal communication can help improve productivity, boost morale, and increase overall efficiency.

Internal communication is unique to each organization and should be tailored to its specific needs. It might involve team meetings or emails, but it could also include a variety of other methods such as videoconferencing, instant messaging, chat rooms, blogs, or wikis.

Regardless of how it's administered, the case for proper workplace engagement is clear - one study by McKinsey^[1] shows that it can improve organizational productivity by as much as 25%.

‍

How Internal Communication and Employee Engagement Go Hand In Hand

The biggest mistake organizations make with their own internal communications methods and plans is not having any to begin with. It's often the case that conversations with customers are seen as the first priority, while those that go on behind the scenes don't receive the same level of attention.

This is a mistake, however, as employees can be just as important to the success of an organization. Internal communication helps ensure that employees have access to the information and resources they need in order to do their job well, while also giving them a better understanding of their employer's goals and objectives.

At the same time, effective internal communication is an unmistakable essential aspect of workplace engagement - the standard against which many companies evaluate their teams. Access to the right information in a timely manner can help employees make better decisions, take initiative, and become more involved in pursuing organizational goals. That goes beyond the bounds of HR to offer value to all departments.

‍

Eight Methods of Promoting Effective Internal Communication

It's worth emphasizing the fact that communication and effective communication are two entirely different things. The first, a literal term of reference, can be used to describe any exchange of information between people. It doesn't mean that communication is clear or productive. The effective kind is more intentional in nature, and in business contexts, something that HR managers need to plan with due strategy.

Let's get a better idea of what that looks like by reviewing these eight useful methods to promoting conductive internal communication:

1. Authenticity

Leading by example is a key factor of effective internal communication. Employees need to trust the people they're working for, and that requires transparency. Having an open-door policy is a great way to both cultivate authentic relationships with employees and demonstrate that communication is welcomed and essential.

2. Feedback

Just like it might with customers, businesses stand to reap great benefits by actively seeking out feedback from their staff. It's rare for new plans or strategies to fit perfectly on the first try, so having a feedback loop can be invaluable for refining plans and making sure everyone is on the same page.

Giving employees the opportunity to provide feedback in an anonymous manner can also create an environment of trust where they feel safe expressing their opinions without fear of judgment or retribution.

This can be done in multiple ways, whether through an advanced team engagement tool like Qualee or an old-fashioned office feedback box.

3. Follow-Up

Gathering feedback is only one part of showing employees their opinions are valued - the action remains symbolic until that feedback has been acted upon.

Businesses need to show that they take employee feedback seriously by following up with staff members and providing updates on actions taken in response to their ideas. This could take the form of a personal call, email, or even an office-wide announcement - whatever will show that employees are heard and their opinions are valued.

4. Clarity

Although not workplace has both, expectations for internal communications are just as important as expectations for performance and dress. They all have a role in defining team culture.

Having clear and transparent communication systems in place helps ensure that everyone is on the same page, from junior staff to senior executives. This includes guidelines for respectful disagreements, protocols for when feedback should be given or received, and expectations around how employees should communicate with each other.

Creating a space where everyone feels comfortable speaking openly and honestly can be tricky, but it is essential to cultivating employee engagement. Without clarity on communication expectations, employees are left feeling unheard and their opinions become less valuable.

5. Encouragement

Every employee needs a friendly reminder to do their part every now and then. With regard to internal communications specifically, HR managers have the responsibility to make sure staff are not only fully aware of the expectations set upon them but also empowered to meet them.

6. Praise

Encouragement and recognition are key to workplace engagement, and by proxy, communication as well. Publicly expressing gratitude for a job well done builds morale, boosts confidence, and inspires employees to continue performing at their best. Negative feedback or criticism may sometimes be necessary, but a healthy balance of positive reinforcement will yield much better long-term results.

7. Transparency

Transparency is a powerful tool for improving communication and fostering employee trust. When individuals know why decisions are being made, they will be more likely to understand the reasoning behind those choices and accept them.

8. Active Listening

Active listening involves more than just hearing a person’s words - it requires really paying attention to what is being said, asking questions for clarification, and providing meaningful feedback in response. By being a better listener, leaders can ensure that everyone’s views are heard and respected. This not only improves communication but also strengthens relationships between colleagues.

Communication is human nature. But getting it right in this modern age isn't easy - it's a matter of using methods that are up to speed with everything else. Qualee is a great tool in this regard, equipping HR managers with holistic control over and insight into the entire process. With it, leaders can ensure that all of their communication is effective and meaningful - a critical factor for achieving success in the workplace.

Learn more about what our innovative solution can do for you today.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

[1] https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights/the-social-economy