Find out what internal communication tools HR executives have found will reach workers
Studies have shown strong workplace communication practices can have an extremely positive effect on productivity and profitability — yet companies often face a number of challenges conveying information.
Globalization has meant many organizations have widespread locations. While relying on technology to communicate can, as a result, be a necessity, it can mean some of the personal connections face-to-face conversations provide are lost; and in some instances, meaning can inadvertently be misconstrued over email or text.
In recent years, a number of organizations have recognized some of the communications issues that can arise from trying to engage and share news and information with a large employee audience.
To ensure messages are accurately received, some companies are employing internal communication tools and practices, based on the specific type of information that’s involved.
Could any of the following techniques work for your organization?
Utilizing an internal system
Although communications professionals ranked email as the most effective way to connect with team members, it’s worth noting that more than half of the global workforce doesn’t have a corporate email address and can’t easily be reached via email, according to a 2017 report from Dynamic Signal. Company intranets, workplace communication professionals’ second choice for effective internal communication methods, may prove more effective, provided employees can — and do — access them.
Making messages more mobile
Email is the most popular communication channel choice; yet 60 percent of employees rate it as only somewhat effective or not effective, according to a study involving HR executives conducted by Navera. The company’s research found more than half (57 percent) of HR executives said they’d consider building or purchasing a mobile app specifically for communicating with employees.
Turning to newer tech tools
While 75 percent of employees still communicate with their co-workers via email, phone and text, some are choosing more nontraditional options. Close to 8 percent instant message each other, and 5 percent connect through social media. Employers may be able to utilize those internal communication tools to disseminate some employee information in offices where those methods have already proved popular.
Talking in person
Although it’s not always possible when distance is a factor, research indicates employees want that type of contact: 91 percent are making direct calls to HR, and 74 percent are scheduling face-to-face meetings, according to Navera — indicating a demand for one-on-one communication.
Employees clearly value the information they receive from HR; 80 percent say they feel it ranges from very to somewhat important.
However, more than half — 54 percent —aren’t getting news directly from their HR department; they’re learning about company announcements from their colleagues.
In many instances, that can potentially result in miscommunication, misunderstandings and employees potentially feeling frustrated and disconnected. It’s certainly not the workplace communication method employers want to primarily rely on.
For more information about how workers view communication and using technology to increase employee engagement, our blog posts on four employee communication missteps you may be making, ways to effectively engage off-site employees and determining whether your employee communication plan needs to change may provide some assistance.