Communication is the sister of leadership

A strong reputation requires good internal communication

Employees’ belief in the brand is an important factor for the future growth of an organization. Employees who identify with the company will support uncomfortable decisions even in a crisis. They are the most valuable ambassadors of a company.

The definition of responsibilities and the coordination of interfaces are important elements of a functioning internal communication.

It is also important to precisely define role profiles so that rights and obligations are clear. This keeps motivation high throughout the entire company and ensures that decisions can be understood and supported.

Communication is a leadership issue and must be modeled

As simple as it sounds, it is crucial that leaders set an example in communication. Delegating information management to an app or the intranet is not enough. Information must be shared regularly and personally.

Otherwise, you “lose” individual employees, and commitment and identification decrease. In addition, innovation is not encouraged or the desire for change is minimized, especially in today’s world, in which transformations and change processes often run in parallel.

Internal communication activates potential, allowing it to be fully utilized

Internal communication is crucial for internal engagement. If an organization succeeds in clearly addressing employees, its need for creativity is satisfied; if employees are involved, we satisfy their need for belonging; if a company communicates properly, we satisfy the need for direction and security; and if we want to promote a culture of innovation, we must satisfy the need for consistency.

Internal communication requires trust, empathy and continuity – close to and for people.

Stories move us and arouse emotions. Stories are remembered

Structures, processes and the assignment of responsibilities are one thing. But good internal communication must also move people. Only in this way can messages be remembered and motivate action.

The following factors are crucial for good storytelling, generate attention and are considered relevant by employees: Connection (draws you in and engages), intention (makes the purpose and target group clear), simplicity (the creative and clear captivates), visual power (a picture is worth a thousand words), inspiration (enthusiasm is triggered), wit (humor charms), emotion (heart over head) and transparency (informative and enriching).

Essential components of internal communication

• Define clear responsibilities and role profiles.
• Clearly determine deputies and absences.
• Demand and model leadership principles.
• Define communication principles and exemplify them top-down; repeat and do not assume knowledge.
• Set up internal communication processes and meetings and hold them regularly, including an annual leadership retreat.
• Develop and implement an onboarding program for new employees.