To be successful, manufacturers across the United States rely heavily on their employees. They are the heart of the operation, which is why engaging with employees regularly through positive internal communication is so important. To do this in an impactful way, manufacturers are using text messaging and keywords to deliver important internal communications.
Engagement with Employees Is the Key
An engaged employee is more productive and loyal to the company. Every aspect of their job can affect how they feel about the company:
- Compensation
- Training
- Leadership
- Resources
- Tools
- Benefits
Each of these can be enhanced through internal communications.
Improving internal communication in the workplace is crucial because internal communications hold the key to delivering timely information. They bring the company together and help overcome the challenge of translating boardroom strategies to the production line. Frequent and transparent communications bridge the gap between management and plant employees.
Communications That Motivate and Inspire
Two things affect internal communications:
- The Message
- How It’s Delivered
Let’s start with the message and then look at how it’s delivered.
The Message
Too much information can overload employees and make it hard for them to discern what matters and what doesn’t. Leadership needs to avoid the “check-the-box” attitude when communicating with their employees. Also, too little communication makes employees feel like something is being held back. No one likes surprises when it comes to their livelihood. The goal of each message is to find a middle ground where plant employees actively learn about issues that directly affect them.
Another important thing to remember is that engaged employees are goal-oriented. They want to go above and beyond to help the company be more successful. Messages that motivate and inspire will often express goals for the following:
- Productivity
- Safety
- Quality Control
- Customer Satisfaction
Employees want a clear, concise picture of company goals and priorities. No fluff or jargon. Just the facts and how it impacts them.
How the Message Is Delivered
Employees are much more tech-savvy today than ever before. They have access to smartphones and personal computers, which makes it easier for the company to communicate with them in new ways. Manufacturers need to take advantage of this when sending internal communications.
Here’s a look at three tools commonly used by marketers. Each one can carry specific messages tailored to meet the needs of the audience.
1.Text
The quickest and most effective way to communicate with employees is through text. People will read a text within minutes of receiving it. Important information can be conveyed in a few words. Plus, links within a text message can direct employees to a landing page or encourage them to take a quick survey. With text messages, employees are more likely to read a quick message and follow up on the call to action later.
2. Keyword and Shortcode
Want to implement a new safety campaign? Kick-it-off with a catchy keyword that employees can text to a shortcode. It’s technology that they are already familiar with and will get them engaged in a unique way. Best of all, the company can analyze participation data and adjust the campaign, if necessary.
3. Email
Email has been around for a long time. It’s an effective tool but often gets ignored when used too much. Email is best for longer messages with multiple topics. Monthly or quarterly email newsletters will keep employees up-to-date on the company’s latest efforts, community involvement, and other issues that directly affect them.
More Successful Internal Communications
Getting employees to read internal communications has been a major challenge for manufacturers. It’s time for them to let go of the old ways to communicate because successful communications depend upon the method of delivery as much as the message.
Employees are also consumers, and consumers love to use the latest technology. Manufacturers can take advantage of this to diversify their communications and encourage more engagement with their employees.