Employee communication has changed over the last years, but how?

13 of June, 2022

The last two years have revolutionized the relationship between employees, managers, and human resource departments. Consequently, employee communication has changed for good. We’ve weathered tough times together, suffered through hardships and uncertainty. And now, as the world has changed, having open and active lines of internal communication is more important than ever. 

Employee communication has changed for good

At one time, communication was done in a formal way: a memo sent off to the whole company outlining a change in protocol. Now, as we navigate remote offices and create new ways to work, communication needs to be more individualized. Managers and human resources departments are the facilitators of this new kind of communication. HR has evolved from a corporate town crier to a trusted source of information and compassionate counsel. 

Although, employee communication is changing, the need for recording aspects of leadership and employee relationships has stayed the same. As a means of protecting individual employees, managers, and the company itself, internal communication sometimes needs to be documented in written form.

Documentation is important for establishing job requirements and charting an employee’s achievements. Individuals should have access to a company employee communication system so expectations, goals, and progress are clear. Documentation is also important when conflicts arise. For instance, if a complaint is lodged, written records of actions taken to address the issue are vital, and sometimes, legally required. 

Benefits of good employee communication

When communication is working well, it runs seamlessly under all other company operations. Employees feel informed about the direction of their careers and their company. Managers can communicate their needs and resolve any issues in a clear, fair way. Conversation is open and reciprocal. As a result, good communication can help increase employee satisfaction, retention rates and ultimately, profitability. 

How to improve internal communication?

In most companies, as in most human relationships, communication isn’t perfect. But there are four areas to make employee communication more dynamic and successful. 

Timeliness

Employees shouldn’t find out about big company moves or changes in the press. Your internal communication system should make company announcements instantaneously. 

Individualized attention

In our new world of mobile offices, each employee has specialized needs. Honor those distinctions while still making the employee feel part of the collective.

Reciprocity

Active dialog is important, especially if an employee has a concern or hardship they are facing. 

Transparency

Good employee communication must be based on a high level of trust; the best way to demonstrate that is by embracing transparency and honesty in all communication. 

Sesame HR has an internal communication tool that handles employee communication in an efficient and respectful way. Chat functionality keeps communication flowing, instant alerts allow for individual and company-wide announcements, and all tools focus on the individual as a part of the greater collective. Add in clear organizational charts and a searchable history and you are well on your way to improving employee communication.