Communications
My comms work is focused on helping organisations that are introducing something new:
a different way of working
rolling out new technology
changing how they’re structured
mergers and acquisitions.
Change is always difficult and the role of communications is to support people through the change and help ensure it works and that it sticks:
motivating people to get through any challenges
ensuring they understand why it’s happening and what the benefit is
sharing clear information on what people need to do
updating everyone on progress
ensuring people are heard
things I try to do
If people are smiling you’ve got their attention and you’re on the fast track to their memory.
Colours, images and design elements make messages stand out and share more information than plain text.
If communication isn’t two way, then it’s just a lecture. Making sure the voices of people in an organisation are heard is vital.
It’s a scary one for most organisations, but if you don’t allow people to express their concerns then how are you going to turn them around?
things I try to avoid
Is there anything more dreary than a long text-based email with no subheads, no breaks, no colour, no movement? (Shoot me now.)
Half my job is weeding. Taking what people have written and pulling out all the unnecessary words. I love words but use them sparingly.
Long slide-packs full of details are not the best use of a meeting - especially virtually. Find tips for Zoom presentations here.
A list of key messages ticked off against a list of key stakeholders is not communications. You may prove you sent the message, but did anyone remember it?
recent work
Working with MLC Corporate Comms on strategic messaging around the proposed sale of MLC to IOOF.
Supporting MLC as it radically transformed its advice business in readiness for legal separation.
Helping CBA and CommInsure prepare for the transition of the life insurance business to AIA.
Implementing Salesforce as the digital spine of AMP and as the key way for the advice network to interact with AMP.
Rolling out Xplan, web-based financial planning software, and implementing Objectives Based Advice, a major behaviour change program for financial advisers.
Supporting onsite safe working practices for Australia’s leading scaffolding business.