Internal Communications

What is internal communications?

Internal communications (IC) is the sharing of information between employees and company stakeholders. Some companies still perceive it as the function that pushes out messages, but it is much more than just that. Internal comms is more about creating two-way dialogues and building multi-directional strategies. 

What is the difference between internal and external communications?

The main difference between internal and external communications is the audience. In external communications, messaging targets are readers outside the enterprise, such as prospective customers or existing clients. Generally, an enterprise's marketing and public relations teams will prioritize content geared towards external audiences.

In contrast, internal communicators focus on creating content and conversations amongst people within an organization. Frequently, this department uses similar tactics to marketing teams, but the purpose is different. External communications generate messages to sell your product or promote your brand to a public audience. Meanwhile, internal comms strives to build engagement amongst your workforce and cultivate a connection between colleagues.

Types of internal communications

From policy updates to culture-building initiatives, there are many different messages that internal comms teams must convey. Some of the most prevalent types of employee communications content include:

Crisis Communications

Whether it's a minor roadblock or a significant disruption, internal employee comms gets the word out during times of crisis. During these situations, company communications content might include the latest updates and resources for employees looking for additional guidance. The pandemic is one example of crisis messaging taking center stage for many internal comms teams. New policies and safety measures were introduced from one day to another in response to the situation. Hence, timely internal messaging became vital to keep employees informed and connected as workforces dispersed.

Change Communications

In moments of transition and change, employees look to internal comms to stay updated on what's going on within their organization. For instance, some internal comms teams might incorporate messages from leadership so that personnel can learn about significant changes straight from the source.

Information Communications

Sometimes, employee comms serves as the corporate version of your local news channel or daily paper. In other words, your internal messages let your employees get an inside look at enterprise happenings. A good example would be announcing the debut of a new office space or behind the scenes of a recent project. Savvy internal communicators often adopt a targeted approach to news messages. This method ensures colleagues receive relevant updates to their role and region and keeps them engaged.

Campaign Communications

From corporate givebacks to healthy living schemes, internal communicators can bring corporate campaigns to life. A well-thought-out campaign can get the word out while encouraging colleagues to get involved. In some circumstances, internal communicators may partner with other divisions. For example, the HR department becomes an ally when preparing to launch campaigns, particularly those related to employee health and wellbeing.

Culture Communications

Internal communication professionals employ messaging to ensure that every team member understands their employer brand and what their organization stands for. This content might include blog posts on your enterprise's purpose and mission. Likewise, some messaging can spotlight employees who embody your brand's values.

Internal Conversations

Two-way comms is a hallmark of modern messaging strategies. Organizational content allows employees to raise their voices and contribute to corporate dialogues. It can happen through mediums such as social networking functionality and discussion forums.

Why is internal comms important?