What’s the single, most important thing that you’ve learned in Internal Communication (IC)?
At the end of last year I contributed to a book being written by and for IC professionals to address this very question and to help raise money for Make-A-Wish UK, and Rock Your Comms is now available.
The book was collated by Ian Harris and Khemer Greffin from Rock Star Comms. Ian says: “We emailed hundreds of internal communication professionals around the world to ask them one simple question: ‘What’s the single, most important thing that you’ve learned in internal communication?’ Some people never replied. Some replied, to politely decline. A few replied, asking us to never contact them again! But we kept trying, and our inbox soon began to fill with pearls of wisdom from communicators at some of the world’s most respected companies.
“Rock Your Comms is a book that brings together for the first time the collective wisdom of nearly 100 leading employee communicators. Represented companies include BT, BBC, Pfizer and Vodafone and scores more share their secrets in this book to raise money for Make-A-Wish UK, a charity that grants magical wishes to children facing life-threatening illnesses.”
The book has been designed to be easily dipped into as an instant source of inspiration whenever you need it. My tip is number two in the book.
Sneaky peek: My contribution
My top tip for internal communicators is avoid over-using the ‘c word’ – communication. I learned a few years ago that leaders will actively listen to you if you talk their language.
You need to add value and ideas to business conversations. I don’t mean solely from a communications perspective – they expect that of you already. Demonstrate the breadth of your knowledge and influence, and persuade them of your commercial understanding. If you can do this you’ll be asked for your opinion, and you’ll have a seat at the table when decisions are being made. You won’t be left to simply communicate their views to employees.
How to get hold of the book
You can buy the Kindle version via Amazon or purchase a digital PDF so all revenue goes to Make-A-Wish. Find out all you need to know here including how the charity will benefit.
If you’re on the lookout for Internal Comms books to read, check out my resources page for ideas and Amazon lists I’ve created. Come across a good book that you would recommend other IC pros read? Feel free to comment below or contact me: rach@rachmiller.com, particularly if you’d like to share your review with others.
Post author: Rachel Miller
