Many organisations have now begun a hybrid working model. Some people are based at home, some are back in the office. Some people are working a mix of both. Effective internal communication is at the heart of employee wellbeing, motivation and understanding. As everyone gets used to these new ways of working, organisations will need … Read more
Being an independent communications specialist with my own limited company, I wear many hats, often several at the same time. I am employer, employee, communications expert, finance director, accounts clerk, marketing team, social media manager, facilities manager, business developer, tea maker… the list goes on! Personally, I enjoy the variety (most of the time) and … Read more
Successful fundraising is about telling emotional stories that donors and potential donors connect with. That they want to be part of. And that they want to share with others. At the moment it seems that every day brings more news of charities large and small that are faced with a crisis of funding. They are … Read more
I started this week with a panel discussion about gratitude that has been recorded for a radio show about wellbeing which will be broadcast on 5th July. I was nervous but really enjoyed having a chat about this topic and, of course, I had chance to talk about my favourite subject, kindness. Next week I … Read more
I’ve been reflecting on the reasons that my clients have chosen to hire me over the past 10 years. They have needed a variety of services and been looking for all sorts of outcomes. The reasons they were looking for help have included: They knew something about their communication activities wasn’t working as well as … Read more
Stories are a great way to demonstrate what you know or understand. Telling a story helps you to connect with other people too, showing what you can bring to the party. A story from my past Years ago when I was working at Cancer Research UK we produced a staff magazine which went out in … Read more
Last week I had the pleasure of chatting to Hayley Wright, Comms and Engagement Lead at Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale and Trafford Citizens Advice. Inspired by an article she wrote for CharityComms about involving her colleagues in gathering stories, I wanted to learn more about how she uses stories to benefit her charity. We had a … Read more
As 2020 draws to a close, I’m taking the opportunity to wish you all a safe and relaxing festive break. After the year we have all had, we certainly need to take time to pause and reflect on how much we have done in the last 12 months! We still have a long way to … Read more
At this point in a ‘normal’ year I would be asking people to tell me about their favourite piece of communication from the year, to publish as a ‘best of’ blog during December. But this year I just can’t bring myself to do it! I decided instead to publish a more hopeful list. So I … Read more
With #lockdown2 about to start in England tomorrow, it’s hard not to feel that we’re right back where we started earlier this year. Personally and professionally, I’ve heard a lot of heart-sinking, sighing and here-we-go-again-ing. Many communications teams and individuals are gathering themselves and setting to work once again for their colleagues. Finding the best … Read more