Frequently Asked Questions
Why is effective communication important?
What are some of the communications issues in a changing economy?
What is the best way to communicate change to employees?
What communication services does Buck Consultants provide?
How can Buck communications help deliver "bad" news to employees?
What steps are needed to communicate change to employees?
How can I get more information about Buck’s Communication services?
Why is effective communication important?
In order to achieve your business objectives, your communication strategy needs to be proactive and tailored to deliver your specific messages. Effective execution of a communication strategy can help reduce adverse consequences and promote positive outcomes, such as:
- Minimizing departures of top performers
- Reducing distractions and negative impact on productivity
- Maintaining employee morale
- Enhancing employee loyalty
What are some of the leading communications issues in a changing economy?
In a changing economic climate, organizations often adjust their HR strategy to meet evolving business needs. Even when benefit cuts, pay reductions, reductions in workforce, or corporate restructures such as divestitures and spin-offs are necessary, the organization’s longer-term goals remain paramount. Examples include retaining the right employees, effectively managing talent, maintaining productivity, and satisfying customers. Despite the economic challenges, employers can find ways to help employees. For example:
- To address concerns among older workers about whether they can afford to retire as they had hoped, effective communication can help point employees to existing and new resources for calculating retirement income adequacy and building a sound retirement plan
- To help with commuting costs, employers may adopt more flexible workplace policies and promote current or new carpooling and pre-tax commuter and transportation benefits
- To ease the potential stress of a host of issues, employers can re-promote employee assistance program offerings
All of these solutions will be better accessed and appreciated if accompanied by a thoughtful communication effort.
What is the best way to communicate change to employees?
Employees want — and deserve — to know what’s going on in their organization, especially how changes will affect them and what they can do to prepare themselves. While the specifics of the messages and means of delivery depend on the type of change and the organization’s culture, communication that is candid, consistent, compelling, and supportive can have a substantial impact.
What communication services does Buck Consultants provide?
Buck’s communication consultants work with clients to deliver messages to stakeholders in an efficient, cost-effective way. We select the best delivery vehicle — print, multimedia, or online — to make sure the message reaches its intended audience.
An integral part of Buck’s strategy includes concrete ideas for responding to rising gas and other prices. Called The Greening of HR, these innovative programs help HR promote and adopt sustainable practices that can reduce energy use and, in most cases, also enable both employees and employers to save money.
How can Buck communications help deliver “bad” news to employees?
We offer specific guidance on communicating tough decisions, while also supporting employees as they deal with difficult changes that the organization is being forced to make in response to a rapidly changing economy. In addition, we provide information to help employees maintain positive morale and take constructive steps to weather temporary difficulties.
Finally, as the responsibility for retirement planning and health care costs shifts to employees, we provide tools and resources that can empower employees to make informed decisions.
What steps are needed to communicate change to employees?
It’s essential to set a proper foundation when it comes to communicating with employees and other stakeholders about change. By examining each organization’s unique needs, Buck can help:
- Identify stakeholder groups— from directors to shareholders to business partners, communities, employees, and retirees
- Develop an effective communication plan to deliver timely and appropriate messages covering issues from the business case for change through the personal implications
- Equip managers and HR representatives with tools and resources so they help build employee understanding and commitment
- Confirm the best communication methods and vehicles within the organization’s environment
How can I learn more about Buck’s Communication services?
Please contact your account manager, your local communication consultant, or Don Sanford at 314.719.2626 or at Donald.Sanford@buckconsultants.com to discuss how our communication professionals can help.
