Internal Communications Tools

In every organization, the internal communication tools are essentially the same. The difference is how the tools are used. Is there a plan? Do you have clear objectives? Can you measure the effectiveness of your efforts? This is where a strategic approach to research, analyze, communicate, and evaluate comes in.

Part of developing a solid plan, is determining which communications vehicles are appropriate for your message and your audience.

The following matrix shows the various tools and how they can be employed.

Communication tool	Some common uses	Top down -management driven	Bottom up -employee driven	Lateral -management and/or employee driven
Employee publications – paper or electronic	Keep employees informed of business information, direction, progress, and goals Encourage quality improvement, increased efficiency, improved service, and greater social responsibility Information about company programs and initiatives Recognize employees’ achievements/successes
Employee Intranet	Document philosophy, values, guiding principles, history, awards, founders, organizational successes Info on benefits, pension, profit sharing, safety, recreation programs, training, policies and procedures New employee orientation
email	Ongoing day-to-day communication Updates on important issues or changes Crisis communications
Memos/Letters	Important announcements Employment agreements Documentation of policy or procedural or other significant changes
Inserts/enclosures	Payroll stuffer or insert in publication Important notices regarding changes in benefits or procedures or other significant changes
Large group meetings	Company vision State of the nation address Major change initiatives Culture building
Small group meetings	Team building Work planning Status updates
Bulletin board	Upcoming events Notices about changes Promotion of company programs
Social media	Brand/reputation management/profile Announcements Crisis communications Conversation
Grapevine<	Fast and effective way to disseminate information about company happenings and issues. Often inaccurate.
Video	To promote brand For major organizational initiatives For training and orientation To celebrate milestones such as anniversaries
PowerPoint slides	For major organizational initiatives For training To communicate the company vision/mission/goals To communicate benefits information
Vodcasts/podcasts	State of the nation address in geographically disperse organizations Vision/mission/goals New initiatives/programs
Webinars	New initiatives/programs Working meetings Information sessions
Face-to-face	Reinforcement of all communications
Displays/exhibits	Highlight company or program information Generate inquiries for more information Get feedback Recruit personnel