How to Improve Internal Communications

The importance of internal communications cannot be understated. It is a well-known fact that properly conveying a message is equally as important as the message itself, and this holds especially true when it comes to international businesses. The benefits of streamlining communications between the various departments and between the employees themselves go beyond than just the profits. Today we deliver a few tip to improve internal communications.

Open internal communications help generate new ideas and build a strong community and a company culture that is sure to give you a significant edge over the competition. Here are a few ways to improve in the communication department.

1- Allow for Both Horizontal and Vertical Communication

A well-structured chain of command is beneficial for any thriving business. But companies using this strategy need to be aware of the potential drawbacks it can have. A rigid internal structure may hinder communications and may keep good ideas aimed at improving various departments from ever reaching the person who could implement it.

In a study conducted by the McKinsey Global Institute, it was revealed that productivity had increased by as much as 25 to 30% when employees were allowed to use social tools to communicate with each other. By making use of different chatting platforms, it should be ideal for companies to promote transparency and allow employees to interact at all levels, and not just through peer-to-peer communications.

2- Going Visual

While on the topic of social technologies, another useful tool that is sure to enhance internal communications are social walls. According to a study conducted by the Social Science Research Network, it turns out that over 65% of the population are visual learners, meaning that videos, pictures, and infographics are easier to understand and memorize than plain text.

Digital displays around the workspace can greatly enhance communications by informing, inspiring, and entertaining employees. These social walls can keep them informed about project updates, company announcements, job openings, breaking news, the weather, team photos, motivational speeches, social media feeds, and pretty much anything that streamlines connectivity between staff members.

3- Cloud Cover

It isn’t that uncommon for many businesses around the world to experience miscommunication or delays simply because the technology they use is segmented among the various departments. Luckily, however, certain software exists that keeps all data and communications under the same roof.

Using cloud technology allows employees to have access to the information they need exactly when they need it. Company chat software allows for a faster connection between departments and colleagues, while platforms that put together email, calendars, and documents, decrease the risk of miscommunication and other mistakes.

4- Do Not Overdo It 

While good internal communication has proven to increase productivity and revenue, some companies have gone to the extremes trying to improve connectivity and teamwork. Between making phone calls, answering emails, giving and receiving feedback, and other such collaborative activities, the working staff at these companies is spending more time talking and interacting than actually working.

Conclusion

Improving internal communication is a great way of streamlining operations, increase efficiency, and revenue, lower costs, and build a tightly-knit community of employees that feel more part of a team than just simple workers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]