Emerging Issues in Internal Communications

This article points out the importance of how generational shifts affect internal communications. Two-way symmetrical communication will positively influence employee engagement. While some communications involve the human resources department, this study examines the use of the public relations department for internal communications. Consider what the study says about establishing commitment from employees and how expectations about communication are changing.

Abstract

Internal communication is rising in prominence and resources due to generational shifts as Baby Boomers retire and Millennials enter the workforce. Through 32 interviews with executives in marketing, public relations and human resources, this study identifies some of the communication challenges and opportunities presented for internal communicators. These issues are explored based on theories of organization power and encroachment, stakeholder theory and organizational identity. Some of the major trends include the emergence of internal social media channels and efforts to drive and measure employee engagement. The findings suggest that public relations tends to lead internal communications initiatives in close collaboration with human resources and executive leadership. This study also identifies differing organizational structural relationships for internal communication and their strengths and weaknesses. Finally, the findings provide support that internal communication is becoming a strategic function and is shifting from one-way to three-way communication.

Source: Public Relations Journal, https://prjournal.instituteforpr.org/wp-content/uploads/2016v09n04Neill.pdf
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