Workplace communications are critical to building a connected workforce that is ready for change and can support each other. Effective communication tools are timeless, but how we use them needs to change. Comms pros must bridge the gap between what staff wants and what management thinks they want. It includes ensuring frontline managers have clear goals and context for their teams.
Transparency
Employees can easily talk to their managers and peers in a culture encourages transparency. It allows for stronger accountability and better decision-making. Employees in frontline-majority organizations need to feel that their managers care about them and are open to listening to feedback. Leaders must communicate through digital internal communication channels like mobile communications apps and shift scheduling tools. Using your mobile VoIP to communicate with other employees or departments won’t cost you any money. However, there may be a fee for calls made from a PC to a landline phone; the rates are far less expensive than calls made from a mobile or landline phone in the conventional sense.
The Hybrid Work Model
Employees choose which days they want to be onsite in a hybrid work model. With the ability to work from home or any other location of their choice, it may be a terrific way to improve team morale and cooperation. Managing this kind of work requires the right technology, employee support, and policies that ensure consistency and fairness. For example, the right communications tools should be available so remote employees feel as connected and informed as their onsite colleagues.
Another challenge is how to manage meetings with a mix of people. Some employees find it difficult to stay focused when attending meetings remotely; others may feel left out of the loop.
Companies need to measure employee engagement in their hybrid work model. Getting feedback on how the office works, what needs to be improved, and how employee preferences change can help companies make hybrid work a success.
Embracing the Human Side
Digital communication tools can provide valuable insights into your frontline workforce but also come with challenges. Many employees report feeling overwhelmed by the volume of messages they receive, which can lead to unique burnout and information overload. Keeping notices relevant and reasonable in quantity is key to employee satisfaction.
In addition, communication platforms need to be designed with human-centric needs in mind. It includes allowing for connection preferences (e.g., video calls vs. instant messaging) and enabling team members to connect in the ways that make them feel most comfortable.
Automation
In the same year that artificial intelligence (AI) solutions like chatbots, speech-to-text software, and AI-powered glossaries came on the scene, 2023 will see more tools for automating recurring communication tasks at scale. When it comes to internal communications, automation is the new normal. Automating repetitive tasks lets employees focus on high-value work. Examples include:
- Answering FAQs and directing employees to the best resources.
- Notifying employees about policy changes or scheduling updates.
- Automatically posting notifications on employee forums.
Getting frontline communication right is critical to creating a satisfied and engaged workforce. Ensure that your digital internal communication channels are easily accessible to your people, especially in remote and hybrid environments. Please ensure they are secure and safe to use and offer easy access to real-time news, updates, and alerts. In addition, establish a safe space for peer-to-peer conversations about company issues. It includes encouraging sharing of personal information and facilitating the development of supportive work relationships.