Engaging Internal Comms

This is the final episode of the Engaging Internal Comms podcast for the foreseeable future. I've decided to end the show as part of a simplification strategy for my professional life. Thank you to all of the guests who have been part of the show and have shared their inspirational ideas with our listeners. All 143 episodes will remain live and will hopefully provide inspiration and information for listeners in the future. Take care and thank you.

When considering human centric change, the link between change, communication, and employee engagement is critical. For any change to be successful, employees need to understand the rationale, expectations, and implementation process. Effective communication fosters engagement by creating transparent feedback channels, making employees feel valued. When employees are engaged, they are more likely to embrace and adapt to changes, leading to higher morale and productivity.

Host Craig Smith speaks with Valerie Di Maria, a seasoned communications and marketing leader and executive coach. Valerie shares her expertise on enhancing leaders' communication skills through presence, presentation, and persuasion. The discussion highlights the importance of engaging audiences, making explicit asks, and fostering dialogue.

In this episode, guest Mary Barnes stresses linking change management and Internal comms and the importance of "calming the chaos" that often accompanies organisational change. She discusses how new leaders sometimes implement structural changes merely to leave their mark, causing confusion and disruption. Instead, she advocates for a more thoughtful approach that prioritises stability, allowing teams to adapt without constant upheaval. It's a compelling perspective on how to manage change without causing unnecessary disruption and stress among employees.

We explore the topic of disability inclusion in the workforce with David D’Arcangelo, a disability policy expert and president of Arc Angel Communications. David shares his personal journey of being blind and discusses the structural and societal barriers that hinder employment for people with disabilities. He advocates for modernising programmes, mentoring, and inclusive hiring practices to maximise the potential of disabled employees. The conversation highlights the broader benefits of disability inclusion, emphasising its positive impact on organisational engagement, diversity, and innovation.

Dr. Frank Douglas, a seasoned problem solver with a 24-year career in the pharmaceutical industry, shares his personal experiences with discrimination. We discuss his approach to reframing problems to achieve desired outcomes. The discussion highlights the need for empathy, understanding, and tailored solutions to combat discrimination. Dr. Douglas also underscores the role of middle managers and the significance of finding common ground to bridge divides in the workplace.

Generational differences aren't just about age—they're about understanding diverse life experiences and how they shape work preferences. Anna Hislop shares valuable insights into why continuous feedback and individualised support are crucial for managing Gen Z employees. This generation values autonomy and trust in the workplace, and adapting leadership styles to meet these needs can significantly improve organisational dynamics.

We explore psychologically healthy conversations and the depth of interconnectedness between purpose and action. Our guest's "Eye of Power" model delves into the quadrants of our psyche, shedding light on fears that may hold us back. Fascinatingly, it's not just about being fearless; it's about taking the step despite the fear. How often do we find ourselves trapped by our own doubts? It's time we navigate these hidden aspects to move forward.

We know how visualisation helps organisations grasp complex messages and identify challenges and opportunities. However, music is a tool that can foster conversations and ideas within companies. This episode delves into music's potential to clarify organisational priorities and unite people around common goals. Our guest specialises in using music for team building and strategic alignment. Join us as we explore the unique role of music in organisational communication and connection.

Understanding Ego in the Workplace: Ego is a term that frequently carries a negative connotation, conjuring images of arrogance and self-centredness. However, in this episode, we challenge this perception by dissecting the multifaceted role of ego in communication. At its core, ego can be seen as our sense of self-importance and identity, and it's not inherently negative. In fact, a healthy ego can contribute to confidence and assertiveness.

We're delving deep into the world of AI once again on the podcast! This time, we're exploring the role of AI in internal communications. It's not just about content generation, it's also about delivery. AI can ensure that the right content reaches the right audience at the right time. An often-overlooked aspect, but crucial nonetheless! We use the analogy of AI as the plumbing that delivers content, while humans or AI create the content. This episode will illuminate how AI can be a powerful tool in shaping and delivering internal communications.

An issue that has risen in prominence due to recent legislation changes, is the pay gap, particularly between genders, and its impact on employee engagement and internal communications. Michelle Gyimah, based in Spain, specialises in helping organisations improve conversations with employees about pay and pay gap issues. The episode also explores how organisations are using pay gap reporting to communicate their value as an employer and address the pay gap.

Get ready to explore the intriguing correlation between espionage and internal communications with a retired spy. JJ Brun, who has applied his espionage skills to the business world, shares how the ability to build rapport, communicate effectively, and establish strong relationships can enhance leadership and communication. Together we provide insights into the unexplored world of espionage and its application in business, emphasising the value of awareness and effective communication.