The comms blog

How to communicate successfully

Before we get into the detail of how to create communication success, we need to talk about what success actually means in this context. According to the Collins dictionary, the definition is: So you might consider that you have succeeded in communicating when: You have sent something out You have sent something out without factual … Read more

Guest post: Communication – essential for becoming inclusive

I have another great guest piece to share with you this month. Diversity and inclusion consultant, Ellie Highwood, explains how important it is for communications teams to work closely with equality and diversity teams. Together you can support your organisation or institution to be a positive place for all. There is one sure-fire way to … Read more

20 pointers for communication in a crisis

Many organisations will face challenges from time to time that count as a crisis. When these situations arise, they will need both effective communication and appropriate actions to get through it. Often the comms effort will be focussed outside the organisation. But what part can – and should – internal communication play? That was the … Read more

You’ve written your #comms strategy, now what?

This year for me has been (almost) all about communication strategies. Clients ranging from a national disability charity to a local healthcare organisation and a university procurement team have asked me to draw up a more strategic approach for them. Whatever their size and whatever their mission, their aim has been to reach more audiences … Read more

Guest post: 3 tips to engage trustees on communications

To mark Trustees’ Week 2019, which took place from 4 to 8 November, my guest blogger, communications consultant and not-for-profit Board member Helen Deakin, talks top tips for engaging with your Board on communications. Are you looking to contribute to a great cause and advance your own professional development? Has becoming a trustee ever been … Read more

How to identify your key messages

Key messages can be tricky to get right. This is especially true if you are close to the subject matter and know all the ins and outs by heart. Or if you are producing communications for a project manager who wants to cover all bases. But it is vital for effective communication that you find … Read more

It’s all in the timing

There are many areas of life where timing is all important. Communication is one of them. This is something that anyone who has ever had to talk to their boss about a difficult project knows very well. Or if you’ve had to persuade a 2-year-old to put their socks on! Cycles of work Working in … Read more

Guest blog: What to do when leaders don’t listen

This month, internal communications consultant, Martin Flegg, shares his advice for getting your voice heard by the leaders in your organisation. If you like what he has to say, you might also like to join him and many other internal communicators at the ‘Changing the Conversation’ conference – details at the end of his piece. … Read more

An exercise in audience understanding

Effective communication is based on audience understanding. To build connections, communicate messages and listen to others, you need to understand them. What are they interested in? What motivates them? What have their experiences been? With this knowledge you can plan communications that are meaningful and move towards achieving your organisation’s objectives. Put yourself in their … Read more