Internal communications are the collection of interactions between employees within an organization, including how messages are shared and disseminated. Internal communications are used to transmit information between a manager and subordinates, as well as between employees.
A form of internal communications may also exist in the form of company newsletters, which inform employees about company progress and people’s achievements.
Informal communication is communicated informally through a wide variety of methods, including word of mouth, body language, and chatter.
Formal communication consists of formal reports that are written using a specific format to ensure they meet the requirements of the recipient. These reports may be sent as emails or via postal mail.
Personal communication is manifested through the handing down of knowledge from one person to another, such as mentoring or teaching.
Public communication refers to one-way communications (such as company news releases) that are intended for a broad audience.
The following are important communication channels that can bring teams together.
An email is a common form of internal communication. Whilst email has its place in peer-to-peer information sharing. It has the drawback that an email can be lost in a crowded inbox or locked in a colleague’s inbox that isn’t immediately accessible.
Email communication is essential in the modern workplace in a variety of industries, such as business, education, and government. In an email, there is a certain amount of flexibility that allows information to be approached in various ways.
An intranet is a website and/or an online system. It is used as an internal intranet that only employees can access. It is ideal for project teams as it aids collaboration and is an improvement on email and should be included in any internal communications methodology.
For example, Simpplr provides a modern intranet that brings teams together.
Sometimes referred to as ‘webinars,’ it is a live presentation that can be viewed by any employee logged in and using the company’s network or intranet. They involve using audio, video, whiteboards, and application sharing.
Webinars are effective communication methods because they don’t rely on employees being present at the same time but do require planning to ensure that all employees can participate at the scheduled time.
Performance Management is a form of internal communication. Annual, semi-annual, or quarterly reviews are used to signify progress and goals in a more structured way than through informal communication.
Mentors are people who aim to help their mentees (their mentees’ employees) develop professionally by helping them better understand their role and the company vision. Not only does this support employee development, but it also has a positive effect on the mentee’s engagement with the organization. Digital solutions like Chronus mentoring software can streamline the process of setting up a program and align mentors and mentees for a valuable experience.
There are several benefits to using internal communications methods. Firstly, it creates unity within the company by ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals.
Secondly, it increases employee retention as employees are allowed to communicate with their managers and receive recognition for their performance.
Lastly, internal communications serve as a medium for feedback and communication between employees.