Small communications team? Read these 5 tips to help you effectively deliver

In many organizations, communications is not always on top of the priority list. This usually means that many communications teams are far from being effectively resourced with sufficient funds and staff.

But don’t fret – you can still do great work with a small staff. Writing for the Communications Network, Jennifer Oldham, who is also part of a small communications team, shares five tips. Read the summary below or the full article here.

1. Plan your work

Oldham writes: “A communications plan should be in line with the organization’s strategic plan. The plan doesn’t have to be complicated or require specific software, but it should include some basic features: 2 or 3 key messages for the year, measurable and meaningful goals, and an evaluation plan.”

2. Evaluate early and often

Evaluating your communications plan once per quarter and at the end of the year is essential to review progress towards your goals. It will help you make appropriate amendments to your tactics, if necessary.

3. Say no

As Oldham notes, “Saying no can be difficult, but the reality is that we can’t do it all.” She adds: “We are all drawn to what is shiny and new, but that newest thing isn’t always the best use of our limited time. While it can be tempting to use the latest technology and join the newest social channel, consider whether you have time to learn and implement those things.”

4. Learn from others

“Take opportunities to learn more about other people’s strategies, mistakes, and successes,” says Oldham.

5. Self-care

Linking effective communications to self-care, Oldham writes:

“The connection between communications and self-care isn’t immediately obvious, but our state of mind impacts everything that we do. The work we do requires us to have in-depth knowledge about some difficult topics that we often can’t leave at the office. We spend our time responding to these issues, sometimes to the detriment of our well-being. Creating a good strategy involves visioning, and we can’t envision a great strategy if we’re always busy implementing.”

She adds: “Schedule time regularly to go for a walk, sit outside, or any other activity that brings you joy. Imagination precedes implementation.”

 

Featured photo source: sage.com