Internal communication is the Queen of Chess in PR strategy, the secret weapon that rules the chessboard. It's not just about sending emails or organising meetings - it's the glue that holds entire companies together, the heartbeat of success.
The Power of IC: MVPs and Game-Changers
Let's dive into this wild journey where internal comms become the star player in the PR game. Picture Salesforce, the tech giant making waves for its innovations and killer internal communication strategies. They go deep, using tools like the Gallup Q12 Engagement Survey to measure their employees' engagement. It's not just about ticking boxes; it's about creating a space where everyone thrives.
And then, there's the colossal cost of poor communication - $62.4 million a year for companies! That's not just loose change; it's a tsunami hitting the global economy to $8.8 trillion due to low engagement. Crystal clear, right? Effective internal communication isn't just important; it's downright indispensable.
Imagine Google armed with a communication arsenal that fosters inclusivity and engagement. Their success story shouts that solid communication is the key to organisational triumph.
But wait, Microsoft's vault holds AI-integrated communication strategies, rewriting the rulebook. They're crafting personalised messages using AI, tailored for each employee like a bespoke suit.
It's not just communication anymore; it's a personalised journey for everyone.
2024: AI & the Personal Touch
Fast forward to 2024, where AI is the talk of the town. Microsoft's leading the pack, creating messages that feel custom-made for you. We bade farewell to corporate jargon last year; people wanted authenticity - videos, emojis, memes - the whole shebang. But here's the catch: are we risking losing our human touch as AI steps up?
Will we end up chatting more with robots than with each other?
It's a tightrope walk for communicators - keeping it real while riding the AI wave.
Here's the plot twist: enter generative AI, gearing up to change the communication game within companies. Vendors are racing to give platforms ChatGPT-like abilities.
It's like having a trusty sidekick for overwhelmed communicators, tackling significant challenges head-on:
AI publishing assistants: Your wingman in creating personalised content for different people and platforms.
AI summarisations: Serving up quick content snapshots for busy employees.
AI-enhanced search: Finding gold nuggets of info in a haystack, making shared knowledge more accessible.
But hold up. While AI promises efficiency, authenticity is a big elephant in the room. Last year was all about relatable content; people craved that human touch. With generative AI in the mix, there's a worry it might mess with that progress. If folks checked out of stiff corporate communications, they won't be queuing up for content that feels robotic.
Communicators need to tango with this shift. It's about cranking up authenticity while harnessing AI's power. Teams must draw a line between where AI assists and where human storytelling steals the show.
It's a dance between tech and humanity.
PR Evolution: From Voices to Echoes
Let's peek into the evolution of roles within internal communications! They've gone from traditional messaging to becoming digital trailblazers - podcasters, videographers, data wizards, social media pros. Think Edelman - they're not just riding the wave but steering it. They've turned internal communication into a powerhouse, sculpting an employee experience that's more than just words - it's an adventure.
Airbnb and LinkedIn aren't just sending out memos; they're crafting experiences! Airbnb has this amazing strategy for talking, listening, and turning insights into action. And LinkedIn? They're into those tiny, impactful chats - the stories that truly hit home. It's not just about updates; it's about ensuring everyone's voice sings harmoniously.
These places get it! It's not a one-way street; it's a fantastic loop where everyone's synced up.
It's not just about knowing; it's about feeling connected, valued, part of something big.
Embrace the Change: Forge the Future
So, here's the big question in 2024: will internal communication step up or fade out? This is the moment to shake things up and redefine how communicators roll worldwide. And guess who's leading the charge? Internal communication pros. It's not just about tweaking; it's about setting the stage for the next generation of communicators. Guts, smarts, adaptability - it's all on the table.
Out with the old playbook; it's time for a fresh one. We need a new breed of tech-savvy, empathetic, and strategic communicators. This isn't just talk; it's happening with real stories from Salesforce, Microsoft, Edelman, Airbnb, and LinkedIn. They're not just players but pioneers shaping a new era of internal communication.
But it could be smoother sailing. Engaging everyone, embracing tech without losing our groove, creating content that truly resonates - these challenges keep IC professionals up at night.
To all the internal communication strategists out there, you're not just going through the motions. You're sculpting the future of global workplaces. Your impact isn't a footnote; it's the driving force behind these places' success, even in the messy moments.
Psst! This blog was made with 💕 and created after some thought by a real person.