Internal communications are any and all contents that go out from a company to its employees. Internal communications convey the company culture and are used to notify employees of upcoming events and changes. In some organizations, professionals in Human Resources are responsible for writing these communique.
Some larger organizations have their own dedicated internal communications team. No matter who is in charge of content, there are certain principles which are consistent in internal communications. They are acknowledging company culture, identifying writing style and consistency.
Acknowledging company culture
The company culture determines how internal communications is delivered. If the company culture is fun and laid-back, the communications may be less formal and delivered via memos, notes, and other formats that are quick to complete. Eg: Google sends its employees ‘whimsical doodles’ and notes.
If the company culture is rigid and strict, the communications may be more formal and delivered via letters to employees’ homes and printed company newsletters. Eg: ZT Systems, have a strict and dysfunctional HR team.
Once you have identified the company culture, you will know what kind of information should be included in the content as well.
You should learn about company’s culture during your training. If you have any questions, feel free to ask the trainer. By observing employees, you should get a good idea of company culture.
Identifying Writing Style
In fun and laid-back environments, internal communications may include jokes and fun facts. You may be able to personalize the content and share information that you would personally find helpful. Employees may be able to contribute articles, poems, and pictures to the memos and notes.
When you write for internal communications in rigid and strict environments,they may include company statistics and employee manual reminders. You should frequently refer to the employee handbook and company official documents in order to gain insight.
Remain Consistent
The last principle is to stay consistent. Since this is communication sent out by the company, you are representing them every time you click send. Make sure the brand is represented well in every communication delivered.
Consistency means that the grammar is top- notch every time. Company culture should be expressed accurately in all forms of internal communications, whether it is emails or newsletters.
Other people in the company can easily identify you when you send out good communications. This could lead to networking opportunities and chances for interviews in other departments. Internal communications is important for the company and for those writing them.
Do you write for internal communications? What steps do you take to make sure your content is top-notch? Share with us below.
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