The Importance of Change Communications
Introducing a change management practice to VMA GROUP has been a natural progression of our existing business specialisms. Our Principal Consultant, Deborah Le, specialises in the appointment of internal communications and change communications professionals for interim and contract roles.
The Role of Change Communications
In the seven years that Deborah has worked at VMA GROUP, she has always witnessed a high demand for change communications professionals. The ever-changing world of business means that organisational transformations are essential to capture efficiencies and remain competitive. Whether it be a regulation change, IT change, cultural change, or merger or acquisition, employing a change communication professional is fundamental to a transformation.
Transformation success and effective communication go hand in hand. One of the most difficult yet important parts of any change is getting people on board with it. The key to delivering successful change and sustaining it in the long-term is rooted in shifting mindsets and behavior. A strategy that effectively communicates a convincing reason for the change to stakeholders and explains how it will benefit them and the wider organisation is vital.
Effective Communication Strategies
Spending time with employees to introduce them to new concepts and skills, keeping them informed of the changes taking place, and advising them on how their day-to-day duties will be impacted will help ease the process and reduce uncertainty. Sharing this information via the most suitable channel for the workforce, whether it be intranet, podcasts, townhalls, social media, newsletters, or emails, is also an important factor to get right.
Change communication is not something to be overlooked in the transformation process. Having a shared vision across your organisation will bring longevity and success to the project and ultimately bring greater efficiency in the long run.
Tips for Change Communications Professionals
Are you a change communications professional seeking a new role? Here are Deborah’s top three tips for you:
- Highlight Experience: Have good examples of previous change communications experience on your CV. Make sure you’re clear on what the change was, what you delivered, and share the outcome.
- Clarify Availability: Most change communications roles require an immediate or imminent start. Make sure your availability is clear on your CV, especially if you have already finished a role—it’s important to have an end date.
- Network Continuously: Continue networking. Whether it’s maintaining relationships with recruitment consultancies like LinkedIn, ex-employers, or meeting other IC professionals at networking events.
If your organisation is going through a transformation and seeking a change communications professional, please contact Deborah today:
Deborah Le
Principal Consultant, Interim Internal & Change Communications
Email: deborahle@vmagroup.com
Mobile: +44 (0)775 298 8881
Direct Dial: +44 (0)203 327 7614
