I’ve started a revolution, or more accurately a small movement. Since I published my blog about the concept of an IC Citizen, I’ve been astonished at the positive reception for the idea. It seems that the blog and concept have resounded with many other internal communicators. Before I move on to Phase 2 of developing the concept further, here’s some more information about it and how it could help the internal communications profession face up to a challenging future.
IC citizenship is about being supportive and giving something back to the internal communications profession as a whole. It is the very essence of the power of our collective and what makes us unique. Here are a few tips on how to be a good IC Citizen. Join the movement by following @theICcitizen.
There is tendency for stakeholders to see the need for creativity in internal communications through the lens of content development. However, the broad remit of the internal communicator demands diversity in the creative approach far beyond this single area of responsibility.
For employees, understanding organisational change can sometimes be like completing a self assembly project with no clear instructions or picture of the finished product. Internal communicators need to explain change themes not projects, use time travel to help leaders mind their language, and become great storytellers to enable employees to avoid the flat packed confusion.
There has recently been an explosion in the number of internal communication awards and it's starting to feel like the industry is overloaded with entry options. What is the reason for this increase, are some practitioners being excluded from participation and what value are all these awards adding to the profession?
There is currently a heated debate raging about the future of internal communication. The convergence of internal and external communication, artificial intelligence, the changing world of work and the digital workplace are all being cited as the death knells of current practice. Should internal communicators be looking for another role?
There are a few longstanding myths in the world of internal communications and PR. One of the bigger ones is that you need to have a seat at the boardroom table to have any credibility or influence with senior leaders and be regarded as their trusted communications advisor.
When faced with extreme change and uncertainty it’s tempting to batten down the hatches, communicate as little as possible and hope that the perfect storm blows over. Unfortunately, saying nothing is rarely an option during times of change and to fail to plan a communications response is a plan to fail outright. The big question is, how do you plan to communicate when there is so much uncertainty and so many unknowns?
The design and delivery of internal conferences and events often falls firmly within the remit of the internal communicator including finding a suitable venue. This can sometimes be a daunting experience, particularly for those who only do this once a year or if they have never done it before. My hints and tips on the important things to consider in a venue hunt could save you from having the nightmare before conference later on.
Quick, call for help! There’s a silent assassin at large in your organisation and its intended victim is employee engagement. What is this unseen assassin and how is it plotting to destroy the employee experience and finish off employee engagement for good?
The IC Citizen 