Effective communications are important with a decentralized workforce

“2020 brought unforeseen changes to our workplaces. Now more than ever, our business success depends on the effective sharing of good information,” Jay Holstine shared in his discussion on better business communications in today’s workforce.

“Let’s start with the fact that many more working environments are now remote and decentralized, which brings even more new challenges to communicating well with every member of your organization, and impacts their ability to communicate with each other,” Holstine noted. 

“We know that organizations with effective business communication tend to be more productive, and more able to retain good employees, yet the planning and structuring of internal communications are often not prioritized. Why is that?” Holstine asks. 

“Sure, there are broad communications efforts for given campaigns and corporate initiatives, but not many companies really have a solid, long-term strategy for their internal communications…. And this internal communication is Vital! Not just for training staff, collaborating on projects, sharing corporate news. …. Employees want to feel they are an important part of a team, they need to feel connected, ESPECIALLY if they are working remotely,” Holstine shared. 

“I’m sure we’ve all received a typical company newsletter that failed to hold our interest. That’s not the effective internal communications we’re striving for,” Holstine said. “Our challenge today is to provide a subtle infrastructure for communication that helps employees work more effectively, and also connect in ways that are relevant and enriching,” said Holstine. 

“A variety of research tells us that 1. Across industries, the engaged employees are the more productive and better performing of employees. 2. Engaged employees have more direct communication with their managers and are better informed about their company. 3. The majority of employees would actually like more information from those they report to,” Holstine summarized.

”So, knowing that the workplace demographics get ‘younger’ and more technologically-advanced every year, what are some of the more consistent roadblocks to good internal communications?” Holstine asked, “Old technology, and outdated processes are commonly cited as making work more cumbersome and less effective.” 

“A younger, more modern workforce wants to work with, and communicate via, the most up-to-date methods and technologies. This is likely even more important in a remote workplace. Your employees expect the technology they are already using, day to day, to be part of their workplace. They don’t expect a workplace that is noticeably behind the technology they grew up with,” Holstine advised. 

“Today’s employees may be working remotely, but expect to work with colleagues who motivate them and involve them in collective thinking, citing ‘positive and supportive leadership’ as critical to their job satisfaction. Now more than ever, companies must support the right tools and technologies, with a positive, inclusive culture that encourages communication in many directions, “ Holstine concluded.