It’s no secret that effective communication is the key to unlocking the full potential of any workplace. But let’s be real – we’ve all experienced the negative consequences of poor HR communication.
Whether it’s the dreaded email that arrives late on a Friday, or the announcement of an unpopular policy change that could have been handled better – these scenarios can leave employees feeling disgruntled, disengaged, and unmotivated.
As a result, poor workplace communication can eventually lead to decreased employee satisfaction and morale, diminished productivity/performance, and high turnover rates.
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Effective HR Communication
On the flip side, strong HR communication can have some serious benefits for both the company and its employees. Improved employee engagement and retention lead to a stronger, more cohesive team. A positive company culture and brand reputation attract top talent and keep them around for the long haul. And let’s not forget the most obvious benefit – increased productivity and performance.
However, solid HR communication goes beyond just having a good policy manual. It’s about fostering relationships and trust between employees, management, and the company itself. So if your organization is looking to take its communication game to the next level, start by implementing these ideas:
1. Establish Open Lines of Communication
Encourage employees to come to HR with any questions or concerns they may have. This can be through regular check-ins, email, or anonymous suggestion boxes. HR is not just responsible for enforcing policies and procedures but also for supporting and advocating for our employees.
2. Use Various Methods of Communication
When it comes to communication, one size does not fit all. Some folks might be all about those in-person meetings, while others might prefer a quick email or instant message. In order to make sure that every single employee feels heard and included, it’s crucial to use a variety of methods. After all, we don’t want anyone to feel like they’re stuck in the stone age just because they don’t have the latest smartphone.
3. Foster Transparency
Be open and honest with employees about company decisions and plans. This HR communication strategy helps build trust and keeps employees informed about what is happening in the company. Nobody likes being kept in the dark, especially when it comes to their place of work.
4. Encourage Active Listening
When employees come to HR with concerns or questions, make sure to give them your full attention and try to understand their perspective. Don’t just nod your head and say “uh huh” while you’re thinking about what you’re going to have for lunch.
5. Use Language That Is Clear and Easy To Understand
Avoid jargon or technical lingo that may be confusing to some employees. Use simple, straightforward language, and keep ambiguous HR abbreviations to a minimum to ensure that your message is understood by all. Everyone should be able to understand what is happening in their own workplace without needing special knowledge or training.
6. Improve Accessibility
When the word “HR” comes up, some employees might think of a far-off ivory tower that’s inaccessible and intimidating. To break down this barrier, make sure that HR is accessible and approachable to all employees. Whether it’s through regular office hours or an open-door policy, make sure everyone feels comfortable coming to you with their questions and concerns.
This extends to online communication as well. Make sure your HR policies, manuals, and even social media accounts are up-to-date and easily accessible for employees who may be working remotely and those that require accommodations.
7. Ask for Feedback
Put out surveys or polls to get feedback from employees. This will help you identify issues quickly, understand what employees need from HR, and even make changes to policies and procedures. Every once in a while, you could even consider holding roundtable discussions or town halls to get a better insight into what your employees are thinking and feeling.
8. Use the Technology Available to You
Out of all the benefits that technology offers, one of the biggest is its ability to connect people. As such, consider leveraging the technology available to you – whether it’s through video conferencing, online forms, or an internal HR communication messaging system.
This can make it much easier for employees to reach out to HR and get the answers they need, as well as allow you to proactively connect with employees and make sure they have all the resources necessary to succeed.
HR Communications Should Serve Employees
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that HR is here for employees. As such, it’s crucial to make sure that every employee feels heard and included, no matter their background or experience level.
By using a variety of methods to communicate with your employees, fostering transparency and open dialogue, and taking advantage of the technology available, you can create an HR environment that is welcoming and inspiring to everyone. Not only will it make your employees happier, but it will also do wonders for morale and productivity.
