Here are just a few things to think about as you manage your organization’s employee communication program. We’ll change this list and the topics it covers on a periodic basis, so keep checking!
Benefits Communication
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Have you considered establishment of a web site for Retirees? Retirees usually have lots of questions about their benefits and how to use them. With more and more retirees becoming web savvy every day, the timing is right to put pertinent benefit information up on the web for them to access. It’ll make them happy, and reduce the quantity of calls to your service center
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In light of recent developments, 401(k)s are on the minds of a lot of Americans. Take advantage of the interest through implementation of a multi-media campaign to enhance employee understanding of how your plan works and what should be considered when making investment decisions. Discuss your story idea with your company legal team and/or 401(k) partner team upfront, and make sure you review your text with them before you release material to employees.
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The manager’s role as communicator
Here’s some advice for managers in handling communication responsibilities. You may want to package these tips with some of your own and pass them out to managers in your organization.
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Give clear, thorough work directions to employees. Make sure they understand what is expected of them and how their performance will be measured. Give regular, frequent performance feedback. The year-end performance review shouldn’t hold any surprises for the employee.
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Connect with your employees – by meeting frequently with them on an individual basis to disseminate information and obtain feedback. Don’t be the distant boss that everyone is too scared to approach. You want employees to feel free to communicate openly with managers like you.
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Hold regular group meetings with your team to discuss goals and exchange information and ideas. Communicate business developments, facts and policies as openly as possible; explain the rationale behind actions.
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Be a good listener. Listen with an open mind and say thanks when employees pass along complaints from customers or clients. Welcome this feedback as an opportunity to make changes that could strengthen the organization.
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Stay cool, calm and collected under pressure. Never be drawn into emotional battles.
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Make direct eye contact and acknowledge people when you’re walking down the hall or sharing the elevator. Learn something about their personal background.
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Offer praise. Send personal letters of appreciation to employees for special achievements, contributions to the company or outstanding work on a project.
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