For companies, internal communication is of the utmost importance. It is a lever for attractiveness, employee loyalty and productivity. Consequently, all well-informed business structures implement actions to optimize their internal communications. They draw their inspiration mainly from digital marketing techniques, using different channels depending on the objectives to be achieved. Read on for tips on how to improve your organization's internal communications.
What is internal corporate communication?
Let's start by understanding what internal corporate communication is, before moving on to techniques for improving it. It's the flow of information between members of a company, business structure, organization, community or association. Internal communication involves the production and delivery of information to employees. It's all about interaction and conversation. This is one of the main reasons why instant messaging software is used in business.
What are the different approaches to internal corporate communication?
Within a company, information is exchanged in three distinct ways. These different types of internal communication are complementary when balanced. These are top-down communication, bottom-up communication and cross-functional communication. The first is communication in which superiors issue news, data and working conditions, which they pass on to employees.
As for the second communication approach, it specifically indexes information, opinions, ideas, suggestions and feedback emanating from employees and passed on to superiors. The third type of internal communication is inclusive and collaborative. In essence, it places all members of the organization on the same level of information, without distinction.
Who is internal corporate communication aimed at?
Internal communication is aimed at all participants in a company, unlike external communication, whose targets are customers and prospects. Among those concerned by internal communication are :
- Contractors;
- Employees;
- work-study students;
- Executives ;
- Managers;
- Department directors.
Internal communication also concerns human resources, marketing, communications, IT, sales and transport departments. Whatever the type of company, it's essential to set up fluid, effective internal communications.
What are the reasons for optimizing a company's internal communications?
The benefits of optimized internal communications are many and varied. When well thought-out and equipped, it becomes a real competitive weapon for companies. Improved internal communication enables :
- Smoother relations between company members;
- Support change within the organization;
- Mobilize positive energies;
- Energize exchanges;
- Defuse potential internal conflicts;
- Creating collective synergy;
- Optimize internal information flows.
By applying practices to optimize your internal communication, you create a sustainable virtuous cycle in an environment focused on achieving your organization's objectives. All you need to do is implement a few simple tricks already tried and tested by many companies. Many companies have already tried and tested a number of simple tricks, and are now posting opinions on Google about the effectiveness of internal communication tools. These include tools such as Google Meet, Zoom, e-mail messaging and other communication platforms.
Some solutions to optimize internal communication within your company
There are a variety of actions and tricks that can help you improve communication within your business structure. They simply involve playing on certain details and using certain digital tools to serve associations.
Tip 1: Hold regular meetings within your company
To keep your staff well informed, you need to organize regular meetings to plan internal communication. It's essential to keep staff and managers abreast of the latest updates and recent corporate priorities. Make sure they are all informed in advance of the dates of meetings and the topics to be discussed. In this way, each member of the structure can prepare his or her contribution appropriately. These regular meetings help to :
Avoid miscommunication in the workplace;
Eliminate distant relations between staff and management;
Encourage exchanges between company members.
So set up a consistent meeting schedule that requires all employees to participate. You can offer incentives for meetings with low attendance. This will increase participation.
Tip #2: Create an effective internal communications plan
To optimize internal corporate communications, you need to draw up an effective plan. This involves defining communication topics, tools, targets, objectives and content formats. Tools include instant messaging platforms, websites and corporate social networks. This plan should help you identify the main thrusts of your internal communications strategy.
Tip #3: Take initiatives involving company managers
Managers play an important role in ensuring smooth internal communications. They set the example for the rest of the organization. So, to optimize your internal communications, you need to take initiatives that involve them in internal communications:
Launch a suggestion box on the company's social network, where managers and employees can submit ideas;
Identify ambassadors capable of relaying information to project teams;
Create a climate of trust so that managers and employees can express themselves freely.
You can also offer internal communications training to your managers. You can also train to become a communications manager. Finally, if you're looking for a job to kick-start your career in this sector, take advantage of communication officer job opportunities to learn about other companies' internal communication strategies.
FAQ
What is internal communication in a company?
Internal communication in a company refers to the flow of information that circulates between members of the organisation. It includes the transmission of data, news, as well as exchanges of ideas and suggestions. This interactive process is often facilitated by instant messaging tools and digital platforms.
How to improve internal communication within a company?
To improve internal communication within a company, it is essential to implement suitable tools such as instant messaging platforms, organise regular meetings, and define a structured internal communication plan. Involving managers in the process and promoting an environment of transparency and active listening are also crucial elements.
What are the types of internal communication within a company?
Internal communication is divided into three main approaches: downward, upward, and transversal communication:
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Downward communication: Information flows from the leaders to the employees.
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Upward communication: Feedback, suggestions, and opinions from the staff are passed to the managers.
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Transversal communication: A collaborative approach where information flows horizontally between teams without hierarchy.
How to improve internal communication within my company?
To improve internal communication, start by organising regular meetings to exchange updates and objectives. Create an internal communication plan that outlines tools, goals, and targets. Involve your managers in the process and ensure that the communication structure remains smooth and transparent.
How to compare internal communication platforms?
Comparing internal communication platforms depends on the specific needs of your company. Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet offer a range of features tailored to different types of communication (instant messaging, video conferencing, document sharing, etc.). The choice of platform should also consider the size of the company and the internal communication objectives.
