Do You Play It Safe or Do You Make a Difference?
As internal communication (IC) professionals, we’re a critical driving force behind positive, cohesive workplace cultures. Our role goes beyond deploying information. It’s about empowering employees, building connections, and making a real difference within our organizations. Yet, one question we must consistently ask ourselves is: "Do we play it safe or do we make a difference?"
Playing it safe often stems from fear—fear of failure, fear of resistance, or fear of disrupting the status quo. While it may seem like the safer option, it can lead to missed opportunities, a stagnant work environment, and lack of professional growth. On the other hand, making a difference requires courage, innovation, and a willingness to step out of our comfort zones. It's about embracing new strategies, leveraging technology, and engaging in authentic conversations that propel positive change.
Here are some compelling reasons why it's crucial for IC professionals to make a difference:
Employee Engagement—Safe, conventional communication methods can become monotonous and disengaging over time. By making a difference, we can introduce fresh, interactive approaches that genuinely resonate with employees, leading to improved engagement and productivity.
Cultivating Trust—Transparency and honesty are the cornerstones of effective communication. Making a difference means being open about challenges, acknowledging feedback, and consistently delivering accurate information. This builds trust between employees and the organization.
Innovation and Adaptation—In today's rapidly evolving world, staying relevant is vital for any organization's survival. By taking calculated risks and experimenting with new communication channels and trends, we can ensure our IC strategies stay ahead of the curve.
Fostering Collaboration—Making a difference often involves breaking down silos and encouraging cross-departmental collaboration. Effective IC can bridge gaps between teams, leading to enhanced cooperation and creativity.
Driving Cultural Change—IC professionals have the power to influence company culture positively. By advocating for diversity, inclusion, and belonging, we can ignite transformative cultural shifts.
While making a difference may involve stepping into uncharted territory, it's essential to strike a balance between innovation and prudence. Here are some tips to help you navigate this journey:
Know Your Audience—Understand your employees' preferences, communication habits, and pain points to tailor your approach accordingly.
Data-Driven Decisions—Use data analytics to measure the effectiveness of your communication strategies, allowing you to make informed decisions.
Continuous Learning—Stay updated with the latest trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in IC to stay ahead in the game. As we’ve discussed in a previous blog, earning and maintaining a professional certification is a great way to boost your development.
Embrace Feedback—Welcome feedback from employees and be open to adapting your strategies based on their insights.
Remember, as IC professionals, we have the power to shape the employee experience and influence the overall success of our organizations. So, let's dare to make a difference, step out of the shadows of safety, and lead the way toward a more connected, engaged workplace.
