The way we work has changed dramatically in recent years. Hybrid working is no longer a temporary solution, but a permanent reality. For example, research shows that as many as 84% of employees want to maintain a mix of remote and office work. This brings new challenges for internal communication.
Hybrid employees need both informative and connecting communication. This requires a strategic approach to keep them engaged and well-informed without causing information overload.
That’s why we spoke with our digital communications specialist, Pascal Herreweghe, to gather his best tips for effective communication with hybrid teams.
1. Make it personal
Employees need access to essential information, but personalization makes a big difference. Personalized information creates a human connection in communication, making it meaningful, memorable, and impactful. Use smart intranet features to offer customized content based on role, location or interests.
2. Take an omnichannel approach
Create a communication plan outlining how you will stay in touch with your external employees. This plan should include the frequency and format of communications, as well as the channels you’ll use to reach your employees.
It’s important to use a diverse range of communication tools, depending on the size and type of company you work for. Consider:
- An intranet and mobile apps for accessible information.
- Digital screens in the office or production spaces.
- Chat and video platforms for quick interaction.
By using a mix of channels, you can reach and inform all your employees, regardless of where they are.
3. Recruit ‘Spocs’
Sometimes digital communication is not enough, and a more personal approach is necessary. In larger organizations with over 1,000 employees, internal communication often struggles to stay on top of what’s happening.
To find out what’s going on, you need the help of ambassadors – the people in each department who can share their insights. These individuals are often known as ‘single points of contact’ or ‘spocs.’ They’ll be your eyes and ears and can keep you updated on what’s happening on the ground.
4. Create a community
A strong team feeling is important, even from a distance. Create opportunities for spontaneous interaction and engagement by:
- Organizing virtual team-building activities.
- Creating interactive forums or social groups where employees can connect and share ideas.
- Hosting online Q&As or live sessions with management.
This contributes to a positive company culture and encourages collaboration.
5. Provide regular updates
Publishing regular updates helps your external employees stay connected and engaged. Use a combination of:
- Sending weekly or monthly newsletters.
- Organizing virtual meetings.
- Providing regular updates on your intranet.
For inspiration, find out about how our customer Blue Triangle communicates with its hybrid workers using Involv Intranet.
Case study: Blue Triangle, Scotland, UK
Blue Triangle, a healthcare organization with employees spread across multiple locations, invested in a future-proof intranet to better support hybrid teams. According to Keara Donnachie, Communications and Engagement Manager at Blue Triangle, Involv’s mobile app plays a key role:
“Since many of our employees work outside the organization, it’s essential that they have access to information such as an overview of colleagues, their phone numbers, and contact details from their phones. Thanks to the Involv app, this is possible. The push notifications are also a convenient way to keep staff informed about important updates when they are on the go.”
Keara Donnachie, Communication and Engagement Manager
Find out how we can help you to keep all your colleagues Involv’d. Download our ebook for ideas, tips and tricks. Or book a demo with one of our experts.
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