The Place of a Communicator in an Organization
The role of a Communications professional in an organization cannot be overemphasized. The functions or titles always vary on the organizations, their objectives and missions.
Ranging from media relations, managing marketing and social media efforts, to writing press releases and memos, Communications Specialists, sometimes called Public relations managers oversee, engage and manage the internal and external communications strategies of the organization. Since the Communicator and his department is considered the heart that continuously pumps blood to the whole body (organization), they are often the ones leading, solving problems, managing conflicts, and rationalizing in their everyday duties (William Neher 1997).
The communicator is there to improve organizational practices, eliminate silos, keep employees informed, reduce errors, improve internal & external communications/relations, build, promote & maintain reputation, etc. For every corporate decision made, a Communicator's perspective is important for they are capable of analyzing what, when, why, and how you carry out your activities to meet objectives.
Since the Communicator represents the voice of the organization vis-à-vis employees, customers, clients, partners, communities, shareholders, and even competitors, they are at the center of all operations, the middlemen, the linkers and so, their place in the organization need to be well understood and given the attention it deserves. That is why the International Association of Business Communicators outlines six major principles every Communicator should possess in other to lead their organizations to the desired future. They are:
·Ethics: Professionals adopt the best organizational behaviors and act in respect of law, cultural values, and believes, respectfully, are fair and facts oriented.
·Consistency: In their communications, be it internally or externally, they make sure views are harmonized, appropriate, have the same patterns and since the organization speaks through them, their stories have to be consistent with audiences.
·Context: Communication styles differ with organizations, depending on their strategies of operations. The professional, therefore, needs to have a deep understanding of the organization’s culture, policies, vision, goals and environment to best represent and advocate for the organization internally and externally, politically, socially, legally, etc.
·Analysis: They are skilled in carrying out researches, evaluations and analysis of situations, plans, measures to best promote the organization in a solid manner.
· Strategy: Communicators are foresighted people who examine the past, present and future, the ups and downs, so to be more strategic in planning, designing, implementing and evaluating activities. This also entails them being creative, flexible, and adaptable.
·Engagement: A Communicator creates, fosters and nourishes a great relationship with employees, customers, clients, partners, communities, shareholders for the benefit of the organization’s image. This way, it is easier to sensitize, dialogue and mobilize support where need be.
Without a Communications professional in an organization, there will always be unsatisfied or disgruntled staff, loose customers or audience who can never be loyal and the reputation of the organization always on the brink of damage. Therefore, a wise corporate leader will not underestimate the place or role of a Communicator in the team