Archive for the ‘Internal Communication’ Category

Why Employee Engagement Should Be Part of Your Marketing Mix

Thursday, December 6th, 2012

Despite the fact that study after study continues to support the critical role that employees play as ambassadors (or detractors) for the organizations they work for, not all organizations are focused, as they should be, on their staff first. If you’re interested in boosting your marketing, you need to first start inside–with your employees. Seem a bit counter-intuitive? Maybe. But consider that, particularly for (more…)

Change Management: A Business Challenge That Can Be Overcome Through Open Communication

Thursday, November 8th, 2012

Every organization goes through change. Every individual goes through change. Some manage change more effectively than others. Why? I think there are a couple of reasons. Those who are most effective at managing change–whether individuals or organizations–recognize: (more…)

Effective Internal Communication Drives Business Success Say Investors

Tuesday, October 16th, 2012

I had the opportunity, recently, to meet with some representatives of a private equity firm that has helped dozens of companies achieve success. Their track record has been impressive and their approach somewhat unique. They don’t just infuse money, they also infuse time, talent and expertise into ensuring that these companies do achieve the success they’re hoping for.

I asked them about the most common issue or problem they encountered when first working with these companies. I was surprised (more…)

The Leader Sets the Tone for Effective Communication

Thursday, October 11th, 2012

I recently had the opportunity to observe two different group interactions at two different companies and the contrasts were striking.

At one, the entire group–a newly formed group–was engaged, enthusiastic and positive; they interacted openly with their team leader who was inclusive and affirming of their input. In the other, a group that has recently undergone some leadership changes, but has been in place for some time, interactions seemed (more…)

Don’t Hold Back on Employee Communications

Tuesday, October 2nd, 2012

As I work with different organizations I’m struck by the variation in their approaches to communicating with employees. Having worked in director of corporate communications roles for several years in some very large companies, my bias is toward communicating more not less. And, I’ve been fortunate that the companies I’ve worked for have been very open, transparent and honest with their employees.

Not all employers take that approach, however, and it’s not a place (more…)

Don’t Keep Your Strategic Plan a Secret!

Thursday, September 6th, 2012

Having been involved in corporate communications and public relations for a number of years I’m well aware of the concerns that organizations often have about too much information being shared with too many audiences. Transparency, I believe, is under-rated! While there are obviously “trade secrets” or “inside insights” that organizations wisely protect, too often information that does not really present any real risk is kept close hindering the ability of the organization to actually achieve its goals.

One big example of this is (more…)

Creating a Lasting Brand Image

Tuesday, August 7th, 2012

Why do some brands become cultural legends that stand the test of time, while others ebb, flow and eventually sink? The brand is the cornerstone of any business and is, unfortunately, often misunderstood. That is possibly why the brand is also often so mismanaged. Brands are not, are not, ARE NOT logos, taglines or corporate colors. Brands are not advertisements. Brands are not Facebook pages. (more…)