Europe's most popular communications, PR
and media conversation

November 6, 2012 Transcript of #CommsChat on internal communications

The Guy Fawkes Night edition of #CommsChat was a rollicking hour on internal comms with guest Kerry O’Callaghan the VP of global brand communications at GlaxoSmithKline. Fireworks erupted as tweeters clashed over the role of IC and HR teams. Sparks flew when commenters debated the ability of internal comms to address company culture. For the full rundown, see below.

Some tweets that caught our eye:

@steve_murg I think at a very top level the aims of the strategy can…but the detail needs to change depending on the culture

@gsk Developing messaging and activation to excite and involve employees in our core strategies and programmes is key

@gsk Our L2012 internal comms prog engaged 86% of employees globally

@midinotes Employees are the voice and engagement mechanism for the company. Engage them and they will act as your marketers

@amandacomms employees are the frontline and the face of any organisation or brand – have to put comms to them first

@gsk #HR Not necessarily. Some aspects eg benefits should be but real internal comms is about supporting business objectives

@engagingbrand Yes but the CEO must be the true head of employee engagement, if they don’t believe then HR is a struggle

And the entire hours worth of tweets:

• about 14 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat An engaged workforce is key to our business success. We measure awareness, understanding and action taken for each campaign
• about 14 hours ago BTW tonight, we saw 401 tweets generating 1,106,283 impressions, reaching audience of 88,748 followers according to @hashtracking #commschat
• about 14 hours ago Commschat takes place every wk. Transcript from today will come via @commschat. See their website for info:http://t.co/RmBlPuzL #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Midinotes @CommsChat @GSK I wish an hour at the gym went so quickly! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Enjoyed “meeting” everyone this afternoon (U.S. Eastern time); great input & opinions on internal communications.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Turn engagement data upside down. Link 2 what u can. Are top 10% engaged people better at sales, more productive? Measure in ££ #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Great #commschat tonight. Some great discussion and always good to see different opinions.
• about 15 hours ago Get well soon @amandacomms. Thanks for the chat Kerry @GSK and good to see new faces here tonight. Thanks all #commschat
• about 15 hours ago We’ll have a transcript up tomorrow – and yes hopefully see some of you on Thursday! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommAMMO: .@steve_murg@engagingbrand Must differentiate betw #leadership and#management – inspiration may b unteachable. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @BHamiltonWords: @CommsChat metrics can be as useful as actions – depends on what the definition of sucess is, I guess #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat @GSK great sessions, always a good measure of how good is how quick 1 hr goes tweeting! #scary#Commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd Great – thanks Rachel, i’ll have a read. Thanks too for other link. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@duartej @uber_engagement @lkmcn1outcomes are v important, obviously – trick is connecting comms objs to biz results clrly #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Thanks to @midinotes @JHDavidsonPR@mrsscriv and @padraic_knox for the RT’s…you’re too kind#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Some really interesting viewpoints on tonight’s chat, thank you all for joining in! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Entertaining #commschat tonight thanks everyone and am now going back to my sick bed!
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Thanks for inviting me to take part in a very interesting debate. Thank you for your questions! See some of you on Thursday.
• about 15 hours ago Ok chaps, I’m calling it a night now…thank you so much @GSK for joining us! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @duartej: IC measure: deps on topic e.g. in communicating safety, major KPI 4 industrial company was changing risk behaviors #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @montsecano I hope so #commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@Lkmcn1 both qualitative and quantitative are useful measures in IC, in partic when strat planning 4 comms#commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat @CommAMMO IC measure: depends on topic e.g. in communicating safety, major KPI 4 industrial company was changing risk behaviors
• about 15 hours ago @jane_revell this will show you what is out there too via @briansolis http://t.co/3q8bSbHX Rachel (@allthingsIC) #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat engaged wkfc is key 2R biz success. We measure awareness, understanding and action taken for each campaign #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Jane_Revell @CommsChat @GSK Yammer, Google+, SharePoint internal sm channels that I’ve tried#commschat
• about 15 hours ago We had @themaria on here (many moons ago)RT @GSK: We recently started using Yammer internally and now have 10k registered users #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK How many active users? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Look at what you can measure against, sales, output etc. Don’t settle for usual comms measures. Speak in numbers, not hunches. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @jane_revell there are lots inc: Yammer + Chatter. See my blog to search for case studies:http://t.co/h9XwMfgv, Rachel #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement Reliability increases over time – particularly if full surveys R suppl by other metrics, snap polls #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd That should change, I believe.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat An engaged workforce is key to our business success. We measure awareness, understanding and action taken for each campaign
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat We have recently started using Yammer internally and now have 10k registered users
• about 15 hours ago RT @steve_murg: @CommsChat How many people turn up in dress down if you post on the intranet it’s happening and no where else :)! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat @Jane_Revell Yeah, we’re using Yammer as well #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat metrics can be as useful as actions – depends on what the definition of sucess is, I guess#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Unfort, we nd both LT & ST RT @Lkmcn1: Meas hv 2B hard wired 2what biz measures. Trending key, LT meas opp to short term checks #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg I will give you that 🙂#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Jane_Revell We’re big fans of Yammer over here #commschat
• about 15 hours ago “@CommAMMO .@uber_engagement Most assuredly not navel gazing – measure at all three levels – output, outtake, outcome #commschat” reliable?
• about 15 hours ago @montseCano nothing ‘boring’ about surveys – for some companies they are only time they actively listen to employees #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @RebeccaPain: Measures =trust, transparency, understanding the message. Certainly isnt working in a vacuum – sign of failure #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Midinotes @CommsChat @GSK Any internal only social media channels out there? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @JHDavidsonPR Yep, and as I saw today…hardly anyone was in dress down. Including me…whoops!#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Measures have 2 be hard wired to what the business measures. Trending is key, long term measurement opposed to short term checks #commschat
• about 15 hours ago “@Midinotes: Best measure of IC comms success? Fewer emails and phone calls! #commschat ” << or strategic goals achieved?
• about 15 hours ago “@CommAMMO @uber_engagement Sean, you’re a wise guy today. Wait, your a wiseguy everyday!#commschat” » shucks
• about 15 hours ago A5) Wealth of measurement tools out there means IC pros have more choice than ever. Knowing what suits your culture is crucial #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success?#commschat” < biz perf, staff t/o, culture?
• about 15 hours ago Great metrics 4 engagement!RT @GSK: online surveys, events attendance, entry to competitions and social media following and reach #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @oliviagadd Yeah, You display leadership behaviors at any level. These need to be seen and allowed to grow into management skills #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Measures =trust, transparency, understanding the message. Certainly isn’t working in a vacuum – sign of failure#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @JHDavidsonPR @Lkmcn1 Agree. Employees are the best way to a solid bottom line and resilience. Be a platform to them #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg Certainly the quickest way to see if people are checking it. #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago A5) Define what you’re trying to achieve before choosing appropriate measurement. Know what ‘good’ is to know when you’ve met it. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@uber_engagement Most assuredly not navel gazing – measure at all three levels – output, outtake, outcome#commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat An engaged workforce is key to our business success. We measure awareness, understanding and action taken for each campaign
• about 15 hours ago Best measure of IC comms success? Fewer emails and phone calls! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat online surveys, attendance at events, entry to competitions and social media following and reach are measures we have used
• about 15 hours ago @CommAMMO @amandacomms But, companies need a structure that supports any comms/ marcomms work or initiative. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @JHDavidsonPR: RT @Lkmcn1: Companies can soon forget your brand is your people. Without an engaged workforce you wont succeed. #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement Sean, you’re a wise guy today. Wait, your a wiseguy everyday! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago ” No, let’s get them leading first. Otherwise they can’t manage. #commschat << right. So I lead first and when I’m good I get to manage??
• about 15 hours ago RT @JHDavidsonPR: RT @Lkmcn1: Companies can soon forget your brand is your people. Without an engaged workforce you wont succeed. #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago Measuring IC: Primary research, intranet stats, correls to outcomes of Awareness, understanding commitment action #commschat” naval gazing
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat How many people turn up in dress down if you post on the intranet it’s happening and no where else :)! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK Is employee engagement also looked at from the business performance perspective? #CommsChat
• about 15 hours ago output, outtake, outcomes RT@uber_engagement: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success? biz results? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Latecomer RT @GSK #CommsChat TOV on social media channels key<< but would it have worked if partner not right? Has to be right brand fit.
• about 15 hours ago RT @Lkmcn1: Companies can soon forget your brand is your people. Without an engaged workforce you wont succeed. #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat online surveys, attendance at events, entry to competitions and social media following and reach are measures we have used
• about 15 hours ago Q5-Measuring IC: Primary research, intranet stats, correls to outcomes of Awareness, understanding commitment action – snap polls #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @amandacomms like your IC approach. Telling employees 1st =crucial. Key is ability to adapt approach when needed e.g during chnge #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Staff surveys no.1 but must be anonymous in measuring int comms success #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Ok ok ok! Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success?#commschat” biz results?
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: Ok ok ok! Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Companies can soon forget your brand is your people. Without an engaged workforce you won’t succeed.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement @oliviagadd@Engagingbrand A manager who can’t lead will tell someone what to do…doesn’t work all the time! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: Ok ok ok! Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: Ok ok ok! Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @DamarqueViews There’ll be a transcript up tomorrow on http://t.co/g0rwcyYm … #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: Ok ok ok! Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat Our tone of voice on social media channels was key to keeping employees involved and engaged
• about 15 hours ago “@steve_murg @uber_engagement@oliviagadd @Engagingbrand No, let’s get them leading first. Otherwise they can’t manage. #commschat” nahhh
• about 15 hours ago More IC pros should read the orig cluetrain – as should every worried company lawyer. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK Great to read #CommsChat
• about 15 hours ago @Jane_Revell @CommsChat @GSK probably email for many of us and IC. Hoping for something more realtime though… #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Ok ok ok! Final topic of a busy chat: What are reliable methods of measurement for internal comms success?#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat all depts should be integrated to a certain extent, especially with comms teams – clearer msgs, stories to tell #CommsChat
• about 15 hours ago “@oliviagadd @uber_engagement@steve_murg @engagingbrand managers manage… and need to exhibit leadership. Yes?”keep forgetting #CommsChat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement @oliviagadd@Engagingbrand No, let’s get them leading first. Otherwise they can’t manage. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Midinotes @CommsChat @GSK Agreed! Simply not up for it. Others, were not users. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Our tone of voice on social media channels was key to keeping employees involved and engaged
• about 15 hours ago @Jane_Revell Bayer China does well. Created targeted groups on Weibo (China Twitter, sry in Chinese only!)http://t.co/kCdFfZlt #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat We supported employees who were athletes (from Japan and UK) and Games-makers which resonated with other employees
• about 15 hours ago RT @amandacomms: I have decided I have a simple approach to IC – tell staff first, keep a conversation, listen and involve #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago Good! RT @amandacomms: I have decided I have a simple approach to IC – tell staff first, keep a conversation, listen and involve #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @amandacomms: I have decided I have a simple approach to IC – tell staff first, keep a conversation, listen and involve #commschat
• about 15 hours ago I have decided I have a simple approach to IC – tell staff first, keep a conversation, listen and involve #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @MontseCano @CommsChat @GSK employees can create work social media accounts and not mix both.. Safer in many ways! #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand 2/2 “you’re really gd writer, let’s have oth writers rept 2 U” happens quite oft. Abil 2 demo leadrshp nt freq #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @Jane_Revell mainly Facebook, twitter, Youtube
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement @Engagingbrand People who can inspire their teams. Too many managers can just do the job the team does very well #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat @GSK Which social media channels do you use for IC? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand point taken – the system of rewards gives promos to technical skill more freq than leadership skill 1/2 #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: Blimey *considers number of employees at CommsChat HQ* RT @GSK: #CommsChat We have 100K employees in over 100 markets. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg: @Engagingbrand U dont hv2B mgr 2B leader…but you should be a leader before youre a manager!#commschat »» So who manages?
• about 15 hours ago @CommAMMO @Engagingbrand I agree it’s not the case, but it should be! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat @GSK in many organisations we struggle to get employees access to social media. Still a challenging barrier! #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago @commammo agree but both need comms skills..leaders communicate the what and the why, managers the how and the when #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Not always, unfort RT @steve_murg:@Engagingbrand U dont hv2B mgr 2B leader…but you should be a leader before youre a manager! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: We massively increased engagement via our social media channels a lot of which was driven by employees #commschat
• about 15 hours ago “@andymturner @uber_engagement and HR, done well, would make exactly same claim, don’t your thing?#commschat” NO
• about 15 hours ago How did companies engage with internal audiences during the Olympics? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Don’t give HR more credit than they are due. Bunch of LibDems IMHO #CommsChat except they are (only) good at process and negotations
• about 15 hours ago @GSK How do you plan to maintain your high engagement and levels of pride? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat We massively increased engagement via our social media channels a lot of which was driven by employees
• about 15 hours ago Crikey, can’t believe we’re 45 mins through…time for topic 5! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand Sometimes, yes, it’s communicating – but often it’s overseeing rather than real leadership. Context-setting #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommAMMO @Engagingbrand You don’t have to be a manager to be a leader…but you should be a leader before you’re a manager! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @commschat Too many companies try and “buy engagement” when you earn engagement thru recognition & seeing person not role #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @engagingbrand that’s true. Severely lacking in most places and can be very powerful #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement and HR, done well, would make exactly same claim, don’t your thing? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand completely agree. So powerful and so under-used #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK RT @theICcrowd: Thank you for clarifying – great result! Was it higher or lower than you expected?#commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @theICcrowd engagement was much higher – we already have very high levels of pride within the company
• about 15 hours ago @commammo but management means communicating clearly what to do and why to do it…its not inspiring as much as comms #commschat ?
• about 15 hours ago @StevenWoodgate @CommAMMO@CommsChat Cheers for the kind words, glad you liked the deck.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @engagingbrand: The most valuable, underused engagement tool is the simple “thank you, you did a cracking job, proud of u” #commschat
• about 15 hours ago IC needs to collaborate with every business function. Don’t give HR more credit than they are due. Bunch of LibDems IMHO #CommsChat
• about 15 hours ago Thank you for clarifying – great result! Was it higher or lower than you expected? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago The most valuable engagement tool which is underutilised is the simple “thank you, you did a cracking job, proud of u” #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @Engagingbrand: Mind you can I add politicians would be better if they spent less time on comms and more on thinking policy! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand Yep, sounds simple doesn’t it! When do managers get measured on the business knowledge of their team though? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @theICcrowd. ‘The partnership with London 2012 Games makes me feel proud to work for GSK’
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg Mind you can I add politicians would be better if they spent less time on comms and more on thinking policy! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: we supported employees who were athletes (from Japan and UK) and Games-makers which resonated with other employees #commschat
• about 15 hours ago That’s a great result. Any reasons given by those who didn’t agree/felt less proud? @GSK #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg yep….the clue is in the title, if you can’t “manage” & comms vital part of that…then u shouldn’t lol#commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@steve_murg @engagingbrand Must differentiate betw #leadership and #management – inspiration may b unteachable. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat We supported employees who were athletes (from Japan and UK) and Games-makers which resonated with other employees
• about 15 hours ago Hi James @jhdavidsonPR #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement @theICcrowd@raynamiller Nothing like a bit of controversy 🙂 #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat The partnership with L2012 Games makes me feel proud Strongly agree was 88% globally#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Was that proud to work for GSK or proud to be associated with L2012? – potentially very different question (and answer?) #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK really interested in ur Values-based incent prog. Have client who uses values/culture as diff’tor#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @commammo Agree 100% & I would say those were key for any successful dept, or any successful biz?#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Hi everyone, sorry I’m a bit late #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand A manager who can’t communicate/lead isn’t a manager. They just regress into the role when the pressure is on! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @susantlawrence: @GSK Used to work in China-workers there loved partnerships. 4 some employees its 1st taste of engagement #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement while I disagree, couldn’t help but laugh at that one! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: @uber_engagement We’re discussing internal comms for big events with @GSK which sponsored Olympics this year #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg You & me both, when I led HR&comms i coached ple 2 c what makes a manager if they didn’t av skills give diff title! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat ‘The partnership with L2012 Games makes me feel proud’ Strongly agree was 88% globally
• about 15 hours ago RT @digiconvs: @Engagingbrand True! 🙂 Heres why delegation, collaboration & leadership becomes vital part of ee engag proc. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Love how you come in and turn up the heat Sean @uber_engagement 🙂 #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd #destroyallheirachy #commschat
• about 15 hours ago A3 – manager comms skill can b honed if mgr is willing. Too many aren’t, C comms as sidebar to “results” esp in scient/tech #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK Used to work in China-workers there loved partnerships. 4 some employees outside US/Europe, it’s 1st taste of engagement #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @susantlawrence @MontseCano Thank you for the RTs, appreciated! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd @raynamiller #commschat OMG sounds like a coalition government. 2 useless parties uniting for power.
• about 15 hours ago RT @steve_murg: @Engagingbrand Couldnt agree more, but how often u c mgr who was promoted simply because they could do their job? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement We’re discussing internal comms for big events with @GSK which sponsored Olympics this year #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT@theICcrowd HR+ICneed to work hand in hand Whether they reportto each other ornot.Focus should be employees not reporting lines #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @uber_engagement Hi Sean, welcome along, Rachel here (@allthingsIC) but wearing diff hat tonight.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand I wish that was the case everywhere #commschat
• about 15 hours ago We can dream. RT @Engagingbrand:@steve_murg 100% agree but comm key pt of mng skill train, coach. if no they shouldnt b promotd? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @susantlawrence agree. We have a number of other key partnerships eg with McLaren, which involves employees globally
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand Couldn’t agree more, but how often do you see a manager who was promoted simply because they could do their job? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat maybe just a short term motivator to reinvigorate staff?
• about 15 hours ago @GSK That sound concrete! Thanks for sharing…Would that be possible to share 1 or 2 of the questions too (if not confidential)? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago BTW, thanks to @jgombita for the reminder ping today. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg Great people at their job who can’t communicate can be recognised in diff ways than promotion to manager #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Sponsorship or supporting? IC important to ensure employees have same message and aware, important in protecting org image #commschat
• about 15 hours ago HR and IC need to work hand in hand. Whether they report in to each other or not. Focus should be employees not reporting lines #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg happens where HR sits on exec team and comms doesn’t #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg 100% agree but comm is key part of management skill…train, coach. if they aren’t they shouldn’t b promoted? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @Engagingbrand: @steve_murg Comms & HR shud b facils n mgrs of grt comms&ppl engagem if THEYown it,managers dont take resp #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Q4. Sponsorships, engagement, etc. signal company values to employees & give them feeling of belonging. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @digiconvs we surveyed over 1000 employees from over 50 markets so robust methodology
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat Our L2012 internal comms prog engaged 86% of employees globally
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat It provides excitement and a way for people to relate easily. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Joining #commschat at half-time. What’s the crack. Usual stuff about role of IC or something more interesting?
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand True! 🙂 Here’s why delegation, collaboration & leadership becomes vital part of employee engagement process. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Much easier when that’s so! RT @GSK: Our senior management made employee engagement a priority and were very hands-on #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommAMMO: .@theICcrowd sometimes not corp ego as much as prof knowl – #HR oft think they are comm’tors, but arent. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago I’ve experienced HR ‘leading’ comms. Reality? What’s on org chart + what occurs in biz often v different.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat HR should be involved in IC – but in truth seem to lack the creativity or passion. Not a core competency in short #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand Completely agree, but that relies on managers being good communicators…some aren’t. But that’s a whole #commschat to itself
• about 15 hours ago @GSK Good method but not knowing type of questions & number of participants; it wouldn’t sound something convincing though. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Our senior management made employee engagement a priority and were very hands-on
• about 15 hours ago Ok, so (returning to L2012) topic 4: What impact do high-profile company activities like event sponsorships have on IC? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago one hopes so RT @amandacomms: Surely IC led by comms pro advising CEO w/ support of all leaders etc – or am I being too simple? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @digiconvs Then theyll be the prob.CEO’s main job is engaging people in vision. Herb Kelleher, Steve Jobs never complained! lol #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd I’m impressed #commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@theICcrowd sometimes not corp ego as much as prof knowl – #HR oft think they are comm’tors, but arent.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago So true! RT @MontseCano: RT @digiconvs: If you dont treat your employees as insiders, theyll treat you as outsiders! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommAMMO: Comms dept should set socmed/comms guidelines, policies. #HR a content provider, not comms owner #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg Comms & HR should b facilitators not managers of great comms&people engagement if THEYown it,managers don’t take resp #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @digiconvs: If you don’t treat your employees as insiders, they’ll treat you as outsiders! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand @CommsChat Dialogue is key in employee engagement, often some CEOs complain about lack of time 😉 #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg I went 28 minutes without a mention of it! #gangnamstyle #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Engagingbrand interesting, should contribute and sign up to… but challenge to do! Still think HR should set boundaries #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Surely IC is led by comms professional advising CEO with support of all leaders etc – or am I being too simple?#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Midinotes Agreed! Otherwise you get the dreaded “KitchenAid” incident… #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Yes. RT @theICcrowd: A3) Everyone has part2play. 2op effectively you need to form good relationships across departments inc HR #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @susantlawrence separate internal conversations here: (1) setting corporate culture/expectations and (2) promoting bus. objs. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat hr should have an input on content but style, tone and channel should be comms dept that’s their bread and butter!
• about 15 hours ago @andymturner @CommsChat Why do HR lead comms? I’ve never experienced that and don’t think I want to.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd Agreed. Surely, a business objective can be achieved by sticking all together. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Egos get in the way of innovation and progress. It shouldn’t matter where IC sits; what it does and impact it has is key #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @digiconvs we did employee survey measuring awareness, engagement and pride
• about 15 hours ago Good point – think @GSK is saying good internal comms does both? @susantlawrence #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat an engaged employee is proud of the work they do the company they work for and acts as an advocate externally #commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@Midinotes @commschat Comms dept should set socmed/comms guidelines, policies. #HR a content provider, not comms owner #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @susantlawrence big issue for tweeting which many do in a ‘professional’ capacity but via personal accs. HR policy vital #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat an engaged employee is proud of the work they do the company they work for and acts as an advocate externally
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat separate internal conversations here: (1) setting corporate culture/expectations and (2) promoting bus. objectives #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @commschat Yes but the CEO must be the true head of employee engagement, if they don’t believe then HR is a struggle #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd here we go #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommAMMO @StevenWoodgate@CommsChat Cheers for the RTs! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat @GSK any good HRD is immersed in supporting the business #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Not directly, comms should be lead by a comms leader not a HR person. Would a comms person manager HR? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #HR Not necessarily. Some aspects eg benefits should be but real internal comms is about supporting business objectives #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg @jgombita @commammo I’ll get my earplugs… #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK What do you mean by engagement? How did you measure that? Any particular index & audit? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Good evening, everyone. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @steve_murg is there a dance to go with it?…#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Disagree RT @Midinotes: @CommsChat HR need 2set boundaries how ees treat socmed, comms in&out organisation, ensure reput mgmt. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: Not necessarily. Some aspects eg benefits should be but real internal comms is about supporting business objectives #commschat
• about 15 hours ago A3) Everyone has part to play. To operate effectively as comms pro you need to form good relationships across departments inc HR #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @jgombita @CommAMMO @GSK I’ll get my guitar #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat an engaged employee is proud of the work they do the company they work for and acts as an advocate externally
• about 15 hours ago what would the ideal role for HR to be in IC?#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Evening from a newbie. As someone who speaks to many HR leaders, I’d say the Q was a no-brainer: they lead it! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago But should HR have a leadership role in IC?@steve_murg #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Midinotes agreed–especially important when employees blend their professional life w/ personal accounts!#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @digiconvs: @StevenWoodgate@CommsChat Success in SocMed based on audience not influencehttp://t.co/bjFRFcbA #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @susantlawrence: @commschat Q3 YES! HR should provide input to stay consistent, but not final say on message/method. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago If you don’t treat your employees as insiders, they’ll treat you as outsiders! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago I’m feeling a round of Kumbaya coming on@CommAMMO @steve_murg @GSK … 😉 #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @Jane_Revell Agree, nothing worse than people hearing things from the press first then internally!#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Why not? Everyone should participate and contribute. Only, there are some limits.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat #HR Not necessarily. Some aspects eg benefits should be but real internal comms is about supporting business objectives
• about 15 hours ago a2..if you don’t sell the vision to the employees they won’t or even can’t sell it to your customer #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat HR needed to set boundaries how employees treat social media and comms in&out organisation, ensure reputation mgmt. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Every department should be part of comms, not just HR. Every team has something to say and a story to tell #commschat
• about 15 hours ago more info abt that? RT @GSK: @digiconvs our incentive prog 4 L2012 was values based&saw unprecedented levels of engagement . #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat employees are the brand ambassadors, if they don’t believe it how can they sell it? Care enough to tell them what’s happening!
• about 15 hours ago @commschat Q3 YES! HR should provide input to stay consistent, but not final say on message/method.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat We have 100K employees in over 100 markets. Keeping them engaged is fundamental to their business success.
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd Thank you! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Important that our employees hear news first to ensure they feel valued. Need consistent internal and external msging #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Bit late but joining #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: our next topic is Should#HR teams also be involved in internal comms? fyi @shrm#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @StevenWoodgate @CommsChat Success in Social Media is based on audience not influencehttp://t.co/XyfzJtq3 may apeal to you. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat hr have to be part – but then all sections of organisation have to be part of int comms activity#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @steve_murg: @jgombita @GSK Not just personal benefits, a truly engaged employee sees the business benefits and promotes it #commschat
• about 15 hours ago I’ll be interested to hear if any participants are in HR: our next topic is Should HR teams also be involved in internal comms? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Kerry what’s your definition of engagement at GSK? (echoing earlier question from @digiconvs) #commschat
• about 15 hours ago A2 – The ability to capture knowl and circ it throughout org relies on engagement – it’s a business imperative#commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat engage employees and you engage their friends and followers (social media)…..
• about 15 hours ago @StevenWoodgate @CommsChatAbsolutely!…Success in comms is based on your audience; hence targeting is crucial! #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat any examples of comms failure? Failure to prepare?
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat Developing messaging and activation to excite and involve employees in our core strategies and programmes is key
• about 15 hours ago MT @digiconvs: Of course it is important how you deliver the info, but if its seen at any point manipulative; would be harmful #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @theICcrowd oi Rach – howzit? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Agreed!@steve_murg @jgombita @GSK Not just personal benefits, a truly engaged employee sees the business benefits and promotes it #commschat
• about 15 hours ago 3Cs have to be well communicated to your brand’s audience which can also save your reputation:http://t.co/WgCCL4YX #commschat
• about 15 hours ago .@CommsChat Engagement is oversold if defined solely as “retention” or “discretionary effort.” #knowledge#management is consid #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Blimey *considers number of employees at CommsChat HQ* RT @GSK: #CommsChat We have 100K employees in over 100 markets. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @digiconvs our incentive prog for L2012 was values based and saw unprecedented levels of engagement because of that.
• about 15 hours ago @jgombita @GSK Not just personal benefits, a truly engaged employee sees the business benefits and promotes it#commschat
• about 15 hours ago Hi Sean @commAMMO, Rachel Miller here (@AllthingsIC) but tweeting as @theICcrowd – welcome to the chat#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @CommsChat: topic no.2 is: Why is it important for a company to maintain engagement with its employees? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Employees are the voice and engagement mechanism for the company. Engage them and they will act as your marketers #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK Of course it is important how you deliver the info, but if it’s seen at any point manipulative; would be harmful to brands. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat We have 100K employees in over 100 markets. Keeping them engaged is fundamental to their business success.
• about 15 hours ago RT @Midinotes: separate strat4digital, but sits beneath main strategy. All comms should follow agreed set of principles, vision #commschat
• about 15 hours ago You mean “see the benefits” like changes to your dental plan, @steve_murg ? 😉 c @GSK #commschat
• about 15 hours ago (Another chat where I need a klaxon)#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat Because if you don’t all comms will fail. An disengaged employee won’t read comms or participate#commschat
• about 15 hours ago A2) Because nothing else makes sense! Crucial to ensure employees are kept informed, listened to (two-way comms) and motivated #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @amandacomms: @CommsChat@theICcrowd ees R frontline and the face of any org or brand – have to put comms to them first #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat Agree – it’s all about how you deliver the information
• about 15 hours ago @amandacomms #commschat I think its about time. Thanks
• about 15 hours ago @StevenWoodgate @CommsChat In the age of Social Media; everything said is global & surely aimed at citizens.#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @steve_murg: @jgombita if you have highly engaged employees then they wont find that information boring, theyll see benefit #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Agree – it’s all about how you deliver the information
• about 15 hours ago @GSK btw, you need to add the #commschathashtag to answers, otherwise the other participants don’t see it.
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat @theICcrowd employees are the frontline and the face of any organisation or brand – have to put comms to them first #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Also, we’ve a lot to discuss, so topic no.2 is: Why is it important for a company to maintain engagement with its employees? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago A1 – IC plan can be uniform only if v high-level. Otherwise, bespoke for sure. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @jgombita @GSK but if you have highly engaged employees then they won’t find that information boring, they’ll see the benefit #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @stanfordhall hi Rob – good to see you getting involved in #commschat
• about 15 hours ago separate strategy for digital, but sits beneath main comms strategy. All comms should follow agreed set of principles and vision #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Reminder: tonight’s not just for questions! We want to hear your views on the topics too #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @theICcrowd: Were taking part in@CommsChat #commschat. Topic is #internalcomms. Tip: Usehttp://t.co/6Ls6OaOk fyi #icchat #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat When does national become global? Comms for legacy programme shouldn’t be aimed at citizens? #Commschat #Glocalisation
• about 15 hours ago RT @stanfordhall: #commschat Some situations require a bespoke plan and strategy. #commschat
• about 15 hours ago @GSK well that’s nice in theory, but sometimes really boring employee communication still needs to be read AND understood. #Commschat
• about 15 hours ago Ok, so once strategy in place, why is it important for a company to maintain a level of engagement with its employees? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @ErinAskew: #commschat one strategy linked to org aims but then different plans/tactical options based on the issue/audience??
• about 15 hours ago Hi all – sorry I’m late RT @CommsChat: So, lets get cracking… Topic no.1: Can an internal comms strategy be one-size-fits-all? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat There were London2012 restrictions but not ABPI – just to clarify
• about 15 hours ago @GSK thanks for reply. Do you feel the opportunity to develop a campaign free from restraints engaged your employees more? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #commschat Some situations require a bespoke plan and strategy.
• about 15 hours ago #commschat one strategy linked to org aims but then different plans/tactical options based on the issue/audience??
• about 15 hours ago That’s interesting – so much of the media pre L2012 was focused on brand restrictions @GSK @theICcrowd#commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @jgombita need to prioritise the messaging and making it relevant and motivating
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: @theICcrowd for L2012 we had the benefit of no such restrictions and could therefore develop a global campaign #commschat
• about 15 hours ago I see that – individualisation always key@Midinotes #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat @theICcrowd for this topic on L2012 we had the benefit of no such restrictions and could therefore develop a global campaign
• about 15 hours ago @gsk not to be cynic but there’s a lots of employee messaging that’s neither exciting or really involve them. How do you balance? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago It’s question overload so far on #commschat.
• about 15 hours ago @jgombita @CommsChat Thanks for the RTs! Hope @GSK get the chance to answer to that question!#commschat
• about 15 hours ago @CommsChat #commschat yes should have one overall strategy but with different plans and themes.. else fragmentation risk
• about 15 hours ago How do you balance restrictions e.g. from ABPI (code of conduct for pharma) with need to communicate with employees? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Our L2012 internal comms prog engaged 86% of employees globally
• about 15 hours ago @GSK Where listening to your employees & involve them in your strategy & programme development would sit?#commschat
• about 15 hours ago RT @GSK: #CommsChat Each strategy needs to be tailored to achieve a specific outcome #commschat
• about 15 hours ago Agreed RT @commschat: That’s an interesting qu. RT @digiconvs: @GSK What is your practical definition for employee engagement? #commschat
• about 15 hours ago But would you recommend that internal strategies be applied across different brands? @GSK #commschat
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Each strategy needs to be tailored to achieve a specific outcome
• about 15 hours ago #CommsChat Developing messaging and activation to excite and involve employees in our core strategies and programmes is key
• about 16 hours ago Can’t wait to hear from @GSK on this: Can an internal comms strategy be one-size-fits-all? #commschat
• about 16 hours ago Moderating #commschat for the next hour or so, o comms-focused followers…
• about 16 hours ago @CommsChat I think at a very top level the aims of the strategy can…but the detail needs to change depending on the culture #commschat
• about 16 hours ago That’s an interesting qu. RT @digiconvs: @GSKWhat is your practical definition for employee engagement?#commschat
• about 16 hours ago @amandacomms Almost same here 🙂 …Keen to see what @GSK mean by employee engagement & learn more about comms! #commschat
• about 16 hours ago Hi Kerry, welcome to commschat #commschat
• about 16 hours ago So, let’s get cracking… Topic no.1: Can an internal comms strategy be one-size-fits-all? #commschat

See what others are talking about "Brittany Golob"

: #CommsChat, ceo, communication, employee, employee engagement, engagement, hr, Internal comms, management, November, qualifications, Transcript