A communications case study

University of Reading

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Who I worked with

Diversity and Inclusion Deans, University of Reading.

The challenge

Despite regular communications about various initiatives, there was limited awareness of and response to these activities. The Deans were keen to involve a wider group and to increase recognition of the impact on the whole university community of embracing diversity and inclusion.

What happened?

I began by meeting with the Deans to talk through their aims and the purpose of focussing on diversity and inclusion at the University. I also met with other stakeholders, such as Heads of School and the student communications team, to identify their needs. I produced a strategy that identified clear reasons for communicating, key messages and the most appropriate channels. I also put together a communications toolkit to help the Deans and their colleagues, all of whom have additional responsibilities and limited time.

The outcomes

The Deans were delighted to have a clear picture of how communication should work for them. They found the strategy, example comms plans and toolkit helped them to communicate more clearly and have better conversations with others.

Sarah helped us take a step back and figure out how and why we want to communicate our diversity and inclusion messages. She provided us with a framework to use going forward and examples for our next big activity. It was great working with her.