4 Channels for Employee Communications

In order to communicate with your employees effectively, you must understand all of the different communication channels available to you. In today’s world, employees are being constantly bombarded with information and companies vying for their attention. Making sure your communication strategy is best tailored to meet the needs of your employees can help cut through the noise and make sure your message is received. Below is a list of some of the most common communication channels.

1. Social Media
   In the past few years, social media has become a popular way for companies to not only communicate with clients and consumers, but to reach employees as well. Since most employees are likely already on social media, using these platforms can be an effective communication tool. Some of the most popular social media outlets include Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you choose to use social media, though, it is important that you do not over-post and clog your employees’ newsfeeds. Social media posts should be concise and of value to your employees.
2. Email
   Another popular communication channel is email. Email can be one of the easiest ways to reach employees during the workday. However, it is important to remember that your employees are likely receiving dozens, if not hundreds, of emails each day, so making sure your message is eye-catching and concise is key. Emails should be void of jargon and cut right to the chase.
3. Intranet
   Setting up a company intranet is another way to communicate with employees. Intranets have the ability to be wildly successful or fall flat, though. Therefore, it is important to post regularly in order to drive traffic to your company’s intranet site and to make it a news hub for your employees. Some companies have had success in posting things like the weather and birthdays on their intranet home page in order to increase employee engagement.
4. Face-to-face Meetings
   Last, but not least, is face-to-face communication. While email and social media posts can be effective ways to reach your audience, face-to-face meetings can help foster a greater sense of collaboration and comradery among employees. Face-to-face meetings can be especially important for big company news or announcements, since employees can more clearly understand the tone of the message and ask questions in person if necessary.

By evaluating which communication channels are best for your company, you can more effectively reach employees and make sure your message is heard.