No More Lost Messages! ?? Tips to Make Internal Comms Actually Work

Ever wonder if anyone’s actually paying attention to your emails, intranet posts, or meeting announcements? Let’s be real—getting your team to engage with internal communications can feel like pushing a boulder uphill. So, how do you make sure your messages don’t disappear into the void? Let’s dive into some practical tips to help your internal comms not just survive, but thrive across every channel.

Tips to Boost Engagement

?? Keep It Short and Sweet, No Matter the Channel: Whether you’re sending an email, posting on the intranet, or using chat platforms, brevity is key. Focus on the essentials, break up the text with bullet points, headers, and visuals, and choose the right time to send your message. After all, timing can make all the difference in whether your team pays attention or not.

?? Tailor Your Communication: Every team member has different needs, so make sure to segment your audience and deliver messages that resonate with each group. By customizing your communication, you're not just sending out information—you're making sure it's relevant.

?? Establish a Communication Rhythm: Set up a consistent routine for internal communications. Whether it's a weekly newsletter, a monthly CEO video, or daily updates, consistency helps create a sense of anticipation and allows employees to expect and engage with information at regular intervals.

?? Amplify Important Messages: Get your team leaders and key influencers involved in spreading crucial messages. When important information is echoed by various voices within the organization, it gains credibility and becomes more visible to everyone.

??? Make Meetings Count: Keep meetings focused with a clear agenda, and make them interactive. Ask questions, encourage input, and use tools like polls or live Q&A to keep everyone engaged. And honestly, if it can be a quick message, maybe it doesn’t need to be a meeting at all.

?? Optimize Your Digital Workspace: Make sure your intranet is user-friendly and that essential updates are easy to find. Use tools to create a digital workspace that people actually want to use. Highlight updates so they don’t get missed.

?? Master Your Chat Platforms: Platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams are great for real-time communication, but too much can be overwhelming. Organize conversations with channels and threads, and lighten the mood with emojis or GIFs. Regular check-ins can help keep everyone aligned without drowning them in information.

?? Use Video to Stand Out: Video content grabs attention in a way that text can’t. Consider using short video updates, animated explainers, or even podcasts. Tools like Loom make it easy to create and share videos quickly, which can be more effective than a traditional email or text post.

?? Encourage Two-Way Communication: Create a culture where feedback is welcome, whether through emails, meetings, intranet posts, or chat platforms. Give employees easy ways to ask questions or share their thoughts, which not only boosts engagement but also provides you with valuable insights.

??Motivate with Gamification: Spice up your internal communications by adding gamification elements. Offering rewards for the best ideas or for active participation can encourage more interaction and make the process more engaging for everyone.

?? Case Study: Zappos' Transparent Communication During Change

Zappos is famous for its strong company culture, and they showed the power of open communication during their acquisition by Amazon. By keeping communication lines open through regular updates, town hall meetings, and direct Q&A sessions with leadership, Zappos kept their employees engaged and aligned with the company’s mission—even during significant transitions.

?? Want to Get Better at Internal Communication?

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding and improve your strategies, check out this must-read book: “The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups” by Daniel Coyle. While it’s not solely about communication, it offers great insights into creating a strong team culture, which is crucial for effective internal communication. Coyle explores the dynamics of successful groups, offering lessons that you can apply to enhance communication and collaboration within your organization.

?? Final Thoughts

Getting your internal communications noticed and engaging your employees isn’t just about the message itself—it’s about how, when, and where you deliver it. Be strategic, keep it concise, and make it interactive across all channels, and you’ll ensure your messages are not just heard, but acted upon.

?? Let’s Chat: What’s your biggest challenge with internal communication? How have you tackled it? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!