Communicating through corporate change
If there’s one certainty in today’s volatile business environment, it is that the process of constant change will continue and accelerate. Companies are striving to maintain their competitive edge by outsourcing, off-shoring and moving manufacturing to lower cost economies. The economic benefits of business transformation programmes such as these are clear. But they will undoubtedly fail to deliver the promised benefits if they are not communicated effectively.
Research shows that the key factor in a successful business transformation project is leadership. And the key to great leadership is great communication. With multiple stakeholders – employees, customers, suppliers, investors, works councils, local communities and more – all having an interest in a major change programme, it’s very easy to under-communicate or allow the message to become confused. Insignia can help you communicate your way through major change with expertise in communication planning, stakeholder mapping and engagement, key message development and plan execution.
Case study
When this manufacturer of electrical products took the decision to close its factory in Spain with the loss of 800 jobs and move it to eastern Europe, it knew that all-embracing communication reaching stakeholders with carefully crafted, well-timed messages would be crucial. Led by Insignia’s Jonathan Hemus, the consultancy team developed a thorough communications plan to reach employees, local, regional and national politicians, suppliers, customers and the media. Communication coaching for key managers and the development of materials – Q&As, briefing papers, statements, news releases – were crucial. Just as important was on-going communication counsel as the process evolved over an eighteen month period. There were challenges along the way, but at the end of it, the media was presenting the programme as a case study of how to implement change professionally and responsibly.
Issues management Communicating through corporate change Communication and media training Online reputation management