Restructuring your business? Jobs in peril? Unpalatable
cost cutting on the cards messages to share with employees? Or maybe you want
to engage them in the company’s exciting plans for the future?
It may be the fact I am still reeling from an
unpleasant bout of flu (could I still be in that temperature-induced fug) but a
senior colleague and I have come to a startling realisation this week with the
arrival of a corporate missive from another part of the business.We’ve been getting internal communication wrong for years.
Many of you internal comms folk have also been doing it wrong with your coaching of senior leaders; relentlessly consistent, clear, relevant and timely comms; creating opportunities for employee involvement, conversation and innovation to help your business shape up in an increasingly competitive world.
The answer to all the corporate challenges you may ever face as communicators is simple. Cup cakes. Yes, that’s right. Forget all those things you have been doing – not to mention ensuring your channels are four and five way – cupcakes are a culinary panacea for all internal communication on any subject whatsoever.
Losing your job? Here’s a cupcake. Having a stressful day/life/career? Here’s a cupcake. Restructuring your team and department? Here’s a cupcake. Let’s celebrate you aren’t getting a pay rise this year – here’s a cupcake.
And even better if you can send out those delicious bits of sponge to land (icing side up, obviously) on each employee’s desk.
And who said April Fool’s Day is just one day in the year!
