How to be a Comms Consultant – Exploration: 28 April 2020

What people say about All Things IC

Last year, I took Rachel’s How to be a Comms Consultant - Exploration course. It set me up for launching my own business and gave me the confidence I needed to bring Authentic Comms Strategic Consultancy to life. I 100% recommend this if you’re considering being a communications freelancer/consultant. Thank you Rachel Miller - properly inspiring, especially with the blog writing and values side.

Adam Driver

Authentic Comms Strategic Consultancy

What people say about All Things IC

I can highly recommend this Exploration Masterclass. Going solo is a big step and slightly scary. Spending some time with Rachel really helped me to get my head in the right place to take the first steps towards becoming an independent practitioner.

Martin Flegg

What people say about All Things IC

The Exploration Masterclass was really useful to help me explore the possibility of becoming a consultant. Rachel is very open and honest about her experiences, making this Masterclass personal and friendly – there’s no judging in the room that’s for sure! I left the day feeling inspired for future potentials in my internal comms career.

Penelope Le Kelly

Pen Your Comms Internal Communication Consultancy

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel coached me when I moved from working in an agency on external comms to working in-house on internal comms. It was quite the leap, and my sessions with Rachel gave me the confidence I needed to get up and running quickly and also spot where I could make a difference in my new role. What Rachel doesn’t know about internal comms isn’t worth knowing, and I’m now working with her to coach my team. She’s also an absolute joy to work with – 100% professional but also warm, engaging and fun!

Adele McIntosh

Director of Internal Communications, ARM

What people say about All Things IC

I asked Rachel if she would be able to support Google Atmosphere’s HR event by sharing her knowledge of internal communications. She spoke about the impact social media is having on the workplace and how businesses can benefit from employee social networking technologies. It was a brilliant presentation packed with relevant content delivered in a really personable style that engaged with the audience. I hope to work with Rachel again in the future and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for an influential person who can attract a high calibre audience and deliver a cracking presentation.

Lyndon Fraser

Google

What people say about All Things IC

A driving force behind many key industry initiatives, she helps the profession to help itself. What makes Rachel stand out in particular is her understanding and use of social media to highlight and drive best practice in internal communication. In this respect, she’s the best in the business.

Chartered Institute of Public Relations

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel exemplifies the professional standards, experience and active involvement in internal communication that sum up the perfect Fellow. It was a ‘no brainer’ for the panel to appoint her as one.

Jennifer Sproul

Chief Executive, Institute of Internal Communication

What people say about All Things IC

Through this Momentum Masterclass, Rachel creates a totally confidential yet honest environment to explore our individual business opportunities and proposition. Her insight, gleaned from her years in the business, and the advice from others was invaluable and I left with a head full of ideas and a notebook full of actions. Thank you Rachel!

Ceri Aiken

What people say about All Things IC

I can highly recommend this Exploration Masterclass. Going solo is a big step and slightly scary. Spending some time with Rachel really helped me to get my head in the right place to take the first steps towards becoming an independent practitioner.

Martin Flegg

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel’s knowledge and passion for internal comms is brilliant and extremely infectious, I left the masterclass with a renewed love for what I do. Having always worked in the public sector, I’ve attended training and networking in the past where the trainers and facilitators have no idea about the pressures of working in a communications team which has no budget, or very limited one at best. Rachel had a wealth of knowledge which is applicable to all sectors which is both engaging and encouraging. Thank you, I hope to attend more of Rachel’s classes in the future.

Kelly Cadman

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel was a fabulous teacher. She helped boost the confidence in my abilities with theory and best practice, giving me lots of good ideas to take back to my organisation. Thank you Rachel for creating a safe space to learn and grow!

Aaron Cranfield

Sodexo

What people say about All Things IC

This course provides relevant practical insights and Rachel is a lovely trainer, also giving participants a chance to discuss their very own challenges and ideas. Thank you for a really interesting and beneficial day!

Eva Gotthardt

E.ON

What people say about All Things IC

This class is a must for anyone working in internal comms that needs some support, is finding their organisation isn’t realising the need for effective internal comms or if you need a refresher and inspiration. Highly recommended.

Helen Sadler

Nesta

What people say about All Things IC

I came away completely buzzing with inspiration and ideas and happy that I’d had the space to take a step back and think creatively about what we’re doing and why. Having time to think and reflect always feels like a bit of a luxury but it’s so important. Thank you Rachel for a brilliant day.

Alison Robinson

Internal Communications Officer, Birketts LLP

What people say about All Things IC

Already using tools from yesterday’s Internal Comms Masterclass! At a meeting I used “what do you want people to do/say/think/feel as a result of this campaign?” and not only did it provide an excellent structure, it made me feel much more confident and in control.

Claire Bridge

RHP

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel is warm, welcoming and easy to learn from. The content is detailed, thorough and relevant with loads of research, models and theory to draw on. Rachel creates an open, learning environment where there’s no such thing as a stupid question. I’m so glad I listened to her podcast and booked on the course. I’ve learned loads and been introduced to a lovely network of like-minded IC people. Thanks Rachel!

Helen Trueman

CDL

What people say about All Things IC

The Masterclass was extremely useful and inspiring! I went home with lots of ideas and I will certainly use all the tips that Rachel has given us! Thank you Rachel, for your enthusiasm and sharing all your stories and experience.

Carla Yperlaan

Greystar Europe Holdings Ltd

What people say about All Things IC

Brilliant course! Rachel is a real expert in her field and her passion for internal communications really comes through. I left feeling empowered and armed with new tools and approaches.

Natalie Idehen

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel has coached me over the past year and her advice and support has been invaluable in making a career change. Rachel takes time to get to know her clients and understand their challenges.
Her style is very supportive but she also challenges you to step up and be bold. Her wealth of experience spans more than the internal comms industry, which makes her such an invaluable coach. She comes highly recommended

Caroline Waddams

What people say about All Things IC

I became a client of Rachel’s in 2018 as I transitioned into my first ‘Head of’ role. Rachel has been a phenomenal coach, mentor and sounding board during the six months we’ve worked together and what struck me more than anything is her desire to openly share her work, her considerable experience and expertise to make me a better practitioner and succeed. Rachel is warm, engaging and has celebrated my wins every step of the way, as well as providing me with a safe space in which to share frustrations and challenges – and effective strategies for overcoming these!
Through our time together, and with her guidance, I have undertaken an IC audit, added two very talented team members, developed our communications strategy, principles and levels of service. I couldn’t recommend Rachel more highly and wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again.

Leah Bowden

Head of Internal Communications

What people say about All Things IC

I really enjoyed working with Rachel, who delivered a bespoke masterclass to our Internal Communications team in 2018. From the outset she was professional, enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and continued in that vein throughout the project.
She spent time getting to know our organisation through conversations, and reviewing documents and examples of our work and approach, meaning that she was able to personalise our masterclass and help us address some of our challenges. I’m sure these aren’t a million miles away from those faced by the other communicators, but as she was speaking in our languages and terms, it made it feel much more personal. It was clear that she had taken the time to really understand what we were looking to get out of the masterclass.
Her insight into trends and best practice was incredibly useful and has given us food for thought and some steps we can take to improve what we do.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rachel, and hope we can work together in the future.

Joanne Loerns

Internal Communications Business Partner, Aon

What people say about All Things IC

I was booked to attend one of Rachel's masterclasses in London but when this got cancelled due to the pandemic, she offered me a dedicated 121 session which was fantastic. It was very beneficial to get that kind of expert support on such an intimate basis. I'd submitted what I thought was a bit of an unrealistic wish list of things I wanted to cover in our session but Rachel managed to cover it all and more. This included comms strategy development, and personal and professional positioning. She shared some great tools, techniques, coaching advice and a podcast to check out too. I have already recommended her to two other colleagues where I work.

Oliver Tipper

Head of Communications, Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

What people say about All Things IC

The Exploration Masterclass was really useful to help me explore the possibility of becoming a consultant. Rachel is very open and honest about her experiences, making this Masterclass personal and friendly – there’s no judging in the room that’s for sure! I left the day feeling inspired for future potentials in my internal comms career.

Penelope Le Kelly

What people say about All Things IC

A great day discussing a huge range of topics with other mid/senior comms professionals. Rachel is warm, funny and has a huge amount of knowledge she’s happy to pass on. Highly recommended.

Alison Giroux

TfL

What people say about All Things IC

I came away from the Strategic Internal Communication workshop armed with so much more that I expected I would. Rachel’s extensive and invaluable knowledge and the way she shares this knowledge with everyone in the room was great. Rachel is very approachable and experienced, so that’s a win-win situation.

Saskia Dornan

Head of IC, Virgin Group

What people say about All Things IC

It’s hard to put into words without sounding cheesey but the strategic comms masterclass was some of the best training I’ve ever recieved. Some times with these things you have moments of “I’ve heard that before” or “I’m already doing that” but I can honestly say that even if there was something familiar to me, Rachel approached it in a whole new way that challenged my thinking on it. I was made to feel both reassured that I’m doing all the “right” things but also pushed to think about whether they’re working and to consider new approaches and ideas. Rachel has such an easygoing way that is really inclusive and involves everyone, so you feel comfortable sharing your own experiences. She offers lots of solutions, ideas and advice too.

Sam Boniface

NHBC

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel’s experience and style is integral to how motivational this masterclass is. I left feeling equipped and supported to do my very best by our profession. The small group number is also really great as everyone gets to exchange and learn from one another.

Jen Robinson

Internal Communications Manager, Sheffield Hallam University

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel’s knowledge, experience and evident passion for internal communications makes this a really valuable day, well worth the investment. The course is flexible and it was great to be able to share experiences and challenges with like-minded comms pros. I came away buzzing with ideas and excited to implement what I gained from the Strategic Internal Communication Masterclass.

Allison Cary

Head of Internal Communication, Voyage Care

What people say about All Things IC

Entirely credible, completely practical and delivered with utter loveliness, Rachel’s Change Comms Masterclass is a must for anyone embarking on supporting with communication through change in their business. I’ve left with some great tools, know how from real-life, real-world experience and inspiration to get cracking. Thanks so much!

Angela Mannion

What people say about All Things IC

Excellent opportunity to meet with like minded people, learn and remember my passion!

Elke Sanz

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel’s Mastermind class gives you a rare opportunity to define and dig into your biggest IC challenge, in a safe space, with other experienced IC professionals. It allows you to delve deep into the issue, understand the reasons behind it, and come away with practical ideas and tangible actions that you can use to move forward. The day will give you the space to support you but also you will meet others who you will get to know and you can support them. I highly recommend it. New friends, a lovely space, time to grow, great ideas and some lovely tools and treats to take away as well. What’s not to love.

Jess Noble

RNLI

What people say about All Things IC

Thank you for a wonderful bespoke Masterclass, the team are buzzing!

Sasha Watson

VP Employee Experience, ARM

What people say about All Things IC

We worked with Rachel on a training session for our team and peers in other business areas. The session was engaging and a really good whistlestop tour of what’s new/trends in the sector. Rachel is incredibly personable, she’s also very generous in opening up her network and connecting you with other Comms pros.She brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise which is coupled with a very likeable manner. I look forward to working with Rachel again in the future.

Rayna Miller

Head of Employee Engagement

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel is an inspiring, yet totally down-to-earth, expert communicator and trainer. Her Masterclass is a must for any existing or aspiring IC professional, at any level!

Internal Comms team, GVC

What people say about All Things IC

I asked Rachel if she would be able to support Google Atmosphere’s HR event by sharing her knowledge of internal communications. She spoke about the impact social media is having on the workplace and how businesses can benefit from employee social networking technologies. It was a brilliant presentation packed with relevant content delivered in a really personable style that engaged with the audience. I hope to work with Rachel again in the future and would highly recommend her to anyone looking for an influential person who can attract a high calibre audience and deliver a cracking presentation.

Lyndon Fraser

Google

What people say about All Things IC

We hosted an internal communication workshop and Rachel was our guest speaker. I needed an expert who could lead the session and give guidance on numerous communication challenges. She didn’t disappoint! Her passion and commitment for communication excellence is truly inspiring and the attendees left buzzing with ideas and excitement.

Jessica Hemmings

Internal Communications Manager, Harrods

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel is one of the internal communication field’s top resources. The knowledge she shares, creates and curates is second to none. I was so proud to have her appear on an episode of ICology and it is one of the most-listened-to episodes I’ve published. And that’s a testament to how communicators value her as an industry expert.

Chuck Gose

@ChuckGose

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel is an engaging and knowledgable presenter. She has the valuable gift of being able to present complex subjects in a way that is easy to understand but never patronising. She has the ability to get to the heart of an issue and is very outcome-oriented. I found her organised, thoroughly, well-researched and very clear in what she would deliver. She exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Rachel.

Amanda Hepton-Patchett

What people say about All Things IC

The course covers a lot of ground but I didn’t feel rushed through or like I was being bombarded with information at any point – in fact Rachel was really good at giving us the time and freedom to talk around each topic while always managing to stay on track with the content! The tools and resources that Rachel leaves you with are invaluable and I’m already planning how to use some of them! I left the masterclass with a notebook full of notes, loads of postcards of ‘bright ideas’ and a renewed enthusiasm for making the comms in my workplace all that’s it’s meant to be!

Sam Boniface

NHBC

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel is an oracle on all things Internal Communications. She is super personable, thoughtful and considered in her approach and I have really valued her insight over the past months as a consultant. I've also welcomed how her recommendations and insights are rooted in interdisciplinary understanding - drawing on psychology and data to guide and advise. She moves effortlessly from tactical considerations through to advising on strategic shifts. The Internal Communications profession is so much better thanks to her willingness to openly share, her generosity, and her ability to encourage people to bring out the best version of themselves. Thank you Rachel for being such a wonderful, and fun, person to work with and for your wise words when it's mattered most.

Zoe Shaughnessy

Head of Internal Communications, British Heart Foundation

What people say about All Things IC

There are few people that everyone in this industry knows; in the UK Rachel Miller is at the top of that list. We love having her present at simply events as when Rachel talks, the audience always listen. What she says is based on the closest understanding of the challenges, fears, hopes and aspirations of Internal Comms folk so they always leave one of her presentations with something they can use the very next day....

Marc Wright

Founder, simplycommunicate

What people say about All Things IC

The IC Masterclass was the best professional development session I have been to for internal communications. Rachel has years of experience and a wealth of knowledge and leaves you full of ideas and inspiration. You leave the day with theories, principles, models, real life examples and a fab little goodie bag. I have come back to my office, buzzing with ideas, and I can’t wait to put everything into action and spread the word to my team and colleagues.

Shelby Loasby

University of Hertfordshire

What people say about All Things IC

Spending a day with Rachel is the equivalent of reading loads of books or attending several conferences. With her vast experience she’s able to cut through the noise and point to the things she feels are most relevant. It was a great day, I highly recommend the course and have immediately put my knowledge into action. I look forward to signing up to another one!

Martin Stubbs-Partridge

Scottish Natural Heritage

What people say about All Things IC

I have to admit I was a little apprehensive when I first joined the Inner Circle, but from the very first session my fears were allayed and I quickly felt at ease in the group. The format actively encourages vulnerability and I have hugely benefitted from hearing other perspectives and have drawn from the rich experience of a small but perfectly formed group of highly experienced communications practitioners working across a range of sectors. Rachel and the All Things IC team excellently facilitate the Mastermind sessions, offering their insights and wisdom when required as well as generously sharing relevant resources.

Mark Dorey

Assistant Director of Communications and Engagement (Community), University of Leeds

What people say about All Things IC

The 'How to be a Comms Consultant - Exploration' Online Masterclass from All Things IC couldn't have come at a better time for me personally. This highly accessible, engaging and interactive course navigated me through the daunting waters of setting sail solo, covering off every important aspect with reassuring authority. Rachel's friendly presenting style perfectly complements the challenging and thought-provoking subject matter. Highly recommended for anyone considering taking the next step forward in their communications career.

Ben Veal

Second Mountain Communications

What people say about All Things IC

I was fortunate enough to work with Rachel during one of the most stretching periods in my career. Her advice and support as my mentor could not have come at a better time for me personally, as I led a large internal comms function through a series of dramatic changes that affected my team and organisation on both a professional and personal level. Through our 121 sessions Rachel provided me with expert advice and insight which helped me take my ideas and my work to a level I would have struggled to reach on my own. Beyond that, she also supported me personally, helping build my confidence during particularly stressful times and connecting me with other IC professionals who shared ideas, support and best practice. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Rachel, she is an outstanding coach and has a deep and broad knowledge of all aspects of internal communication and engagement. I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending her services and hope to work with her again in future.

Anthony Kluth

Deputy Director, Group Head of Internal Communication, Defra

What people say about All Things IC

As someone new to IC and in the early stages of my career, I really enjoyed the Effective Internal Communication Masterclass in 2021. It left me with practical frameworks, insights I can apply to my workplace and food for thought for future improvements. I sometimes find courses difficult to participate in as I don't always find them engaging. Rachel makes sure to keep the class steadily paced (in an accessible way) and lets the group shape what you learn which makes for an engaging experience!

Eloise Thomas

Internal Communications Manager, Informa Group

What people say about All Things IC

Rachel's Effective IC Masterclass in 2021 was fantastic. The delivery was clear and there were multiple actionable takeaways to help us improve our knowledge and understanding of internal communications, as well as help to improve our processes. I'd highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to know a little bit more about all things internal communications.

Ella Stanbrook

Corporate and Consumer Communications Manager, KP Snacks

What people say about All Things IC

All Things IC Live is the event that we have been missing in the internal comms industry. I’m delighted that Rachel and her team developed and delivered something for internal comms professionals to connect, learn and be inspired in a meaningful and engaging way. I truly hope this event becomes a regular on the calendar - you won’t be able to keep me away!

Suzanne Dellmann

Head of Colleague Engagement, Corporate Brand Communications, The LEGO Group

What people say about All Things IC

I really enjoyed the Strategic Internal Communications Masterclass in 2023. It provided me with so many useful insights and learnings, and was so valuable to spend time with other internal communications colleagues and be able to learn from each other and share ideas. Thank you so much Rachel for a fantastic masterclass!

Claire Cunningham

Internal Communications and Engagement Manager, Supporting Education Group

What people say about All Things IC

Being part of the Inner Circle for six months was brilliant. A regular 'safe-space' to talk things through with peers was so helpful. From a simple sense-check to trying to solve knottier problems that other's have tackled was incredibly valuable.

Charlotte O'Reilly

Head of Internal Communications and Engagement, British Red Cross