Practical considerations when implementing an effective communication strategy
1. Methods of communication
It’s easy to assume that just one communication channel will be enough. But focusing efforts on just one (or two) channels means you’re probably missing out on a significant proportion of your workforce. Communications design should consider a multi-channel approach, including online and offline communication methods. Employees of different ages, abilities and life priorities will need to be able to access your messages across a variety of media.
2. Test messages for their effectiveness
Your first communication might not always hit the sweet spot. This is why testing your messages, and communication methods, is so important. This means you can see where your communications are not being received or understood as intended, and allows you to refine and refresh your message where needed.
3. The need to tailor messages to your audience
Don’t think that everyone in your workforce is going to engage with your story. Communication needs to be personal in order to be engaging. Not only does this mean personalising messages with names and personal details, but also considering other elements such as adapting your communications into other languages.
4. The frequency of communications
For communications to be well-received, they need to be consistent. More than half of organisations communicate with their staff about benefits on less than a quarterly basis, according to research in our Health and Wellbeing Benefits Guide 2017. While one-off communications have their place, a strategy that includes consistent and regular communications will ensure your messages stay top of mind with employees.
5. Measure engagement levels
Lastly, don’t assume that because employees aren’t talking about something, they haven’t engaged with it. People don’t always openly express their thoughts. This might lead you to think your message hasn’t been received well and prompt you to send the communication again. By proactively asking for feedback from employees, you’ll be able to more accurately gauge the reception of your communications.
Your free guide to communications
We’ve partnered with REBA to create a technical guide to designing an effective benefits communication strategy. Featuring ideas for different communication methods, and communication pitfalls to be aware of, this guide can help drive take-up of health and wellbeing benefits in your organisation.
This article is provided by Simplyhealth.
In partnership with Simplyhealth
Our health plans make it easy for people to maintain their health&wellbeing.
