Is Internal Communications Different from External Communications? 6 Differences that Matter.

This is Edition 120 of my weekly Internal Comms Insights newsletter followed by 6613 followers. Also, look up my blog (www.aniisu.com ), started in 2006, to access over 1000 free blogs, articles, case studies, interviews and more. Learn more about my offerings at Intraskope .

____________________________________________________________________________________

Have you ever wondered - is internal communications any different from external communications?

At first glance, it might seem like they share similar traits – both engage audiences, utilize various channels, craft content, and measure impact. Also, there are important aspects of external communications that can and must be borrowed for internal communications - including the keen focus on the customer, the insight-driven approach to engaging and the campaign-led mindset that provides consistency to the overall brand experience.

However, if we dig deeper, we uncover a world of disparities that demand a distinct approach and mindset. In this post, I explore why internal communication professionals and those wanting to begin careers in this function need to invest in thinking differently about the domain and its invaluable contribution to organizations.

·?Cross-Functional Collaboration: Unlike external communications, internal communications necessitates collaboration beyond just those involved as stakeholders. Understanding the entire employee life cycle entails working closely with HR, legal, business units, and the leadership. The challenge often lies in breaking down silos (often the bane of organizations) to build a culture of interdisciplinary cooperation.

· Empathizing with Employee Needs: Effective internal communication goes beyond disseminating information; it involves understanding employee aspirations, perceptions, and sentiments. Recognizing and responding to these needs build trust and foster a sense of belonging within the organization.

· Long-Term Change Management: Managing change within an organization isn’t a one-time campaign; it requires a sustained effort to earn employees' trust. Internal communicators play a crucial role in facilitating transparent communication throughout the change process, ensuring employees feel informed and empowered.

·Demonstrating Credibility and Gaining Buy-In: Many internal stakeholders may lack a comprehensive understanding of how internal communication functions. It is also one of those domains where stakeholders think they know all about internal communications and offers unsolicited advice. Thus, it’s imperative for communication professionals to demonstrate credibility and secure buy-in by showcasing the tangible value their strategies bring to the organization.

·Optimizing Resources: Doing more with less is a common challenge in internal communications. Setting clear expectations, establishing boundaries, and providing stakeholders with the necessary resources and tools are vital for maximizing efficiency and effectiveness.

·Cultural Context Matters: What works for one company may not necessarily be effective in another. Understanding the unique culture of your organization is paramount. Tailoring communication strategies to fit your organizational culture and leveraging influencing skills are key to success.

·Authentic Inside-Out Approach: When you have your captive audiences raring to share positive news and views about your organization, it is perceived very differently than when communication is staged to portray a culture that isn’t anchored to reality. This is where internal communications can inspire, empower and enable employees to be ambassadors and create brand impressions that matters.

Internal communications is a multifaceted domain that requires a specialized approach and skill set. By recognizing its unique challenges and opportunities, professionals can leverage its complete potential as a strategic asset for organizational success. It’s time to shift our perspective and invest in thinking differently about internal communications. After all, the way we communicate internally shapes not just our culture inside organizations but even for our society.

?____________________________________________________________________________________

Hello,

I am Aniisu, an award-winning internal communications and change leader helping individuals and organizations discover and develop their 'sweet-spot' through effective communications. As a Linkedin Top Voice for Internal Communications & Personal Branding based in Sydney, Australia, I offer insights, perspectives and solutions at the intersection of these two evolving domains. I believe that organizations are an amalgamation of employees as 'personal brands' and when we include, involve and inspire staff as partners of change, together we can amplify our presence and advocacy.

Like the article? Subscribe to my newsletter and join over 6573 Linkedin followers who gain from weekly insights. Do share your comments as well.

Keen to amplify your employee communications and engagement? Reach out to me: https://www.intraskope.com/advantage

Book a FREE 30 minute chat to discuss your needs: https://meet.brevo.com/aniisu-k-verghese/ask-aniisu-

#IC #internalcomms #culture #externalcomms #advocacy #inspiration #empowerment #leadership #ambassador #collaboration #strategy #inclusiveIC