Ee Voice

In this episode, I’m joined by author,  communications expert and dear friend David Murray, who recently released his book, An Effort to Understand: Hearing One Another (and Ourselves) in a Nation Cracked in Half. David has written for The New York Times, The Atlantic Monthly and The Chicago Tribune and published several other books. He also leads the global Professional Speechwriters Association and the Executive Communication Council (ECC) and pens the daily blog “Writing Boots.” In our conversation, we discuss how effective internal communications can foster empathy in oftentimes divided workplaces, as well as: Why the book is dedicated to communicators: “This is the distillation of all the wisdom I’ve gotten from hanging around with [communicators] in bar rooms and out of bar rooms and at work in a hundred different ways,” he said. “So, this feels like it’s not my book, but really our book.”  The criticality of internal communications: “There's endless stuff for an internal communication group to be doi

As we strive to foster communities of collaboration and transparency between company executives and their employees, one question persists: How do we make our findings measurable and actionable?  “I think communications in general is hard to measure. It's not as cut and dry as the sales of a product or the financials of a company… it's pretty hard across the board,” says our most recent guest, George Sutcliffe, Global Communications Insights & Analytics Lead at Raytheon Technologies.  A former lawyer, librarian and writer, George uses his keen attention to detail to drive measurement strategy and uncover insights that impact business outcomes. In our conversation, George touches on a variety of subjects that all point back to one of Sharon and my favorite topics: How to marry quantitative and qualitative employee feedback, put it to use, and show your employees (and your executives) that their feedback is being put to use. Continue Reading → The post Episode #57 – Tips from a Pro: Strategies t

This week, Sharon and I welcome Kristen Garvey, vice president of corporate communication at Waters Corporation, a specialty measurement company focused on improving human health and well-being through the application of high-value analytical technologies and scientific expertise. In our conversation, Kristen expresses gratitude she feels for her team and notes that she has never received more emails of thanks for the transparency Waters achieved than she did over the past year and a half — so we are incredibly fortunate to have her perspective as we all strive for transparency and trust through this next phase of the pandemic.Continue Reading → The post EPISODE #56 – KRISTEN GARVEY ON TRANSITIONING EMPLOYEES TO THE OFFICE appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

In this special episode, Sharon and I join you as listeners to a far-reaching conversation between two communication powerhouses on the evolution of employee comms – and the hard road ahead. Guest Host David Murray heads up the global Professional Speechwriters Association and the Executive Communication Council and writes the popular daily blog “Writing Boots.” An award-winning journalist, he's just published his must-read book, An Effort to Understand: Hearing One Another (and Ourselves) in a Nation Cracked in Half. Roger D'Aprix, often called “the father of internal communications,” has served on ROI Communication’s Board of Advisors since 2005, is an internationally known consultant, lecturer and author, an IABC Fellow and recipient of the 2014 President’s Award from the Communication Leadership Exchange. He is a best-selling author whose most recent book is Bosses: True Stories of the Good, the Bad and the Ugly. This probing interview covers the realities that leaders in the workplace face, as David note

2021 Edelman Trust Survey Demands Communicators’ Focus, CEO Action According to the recently released 2021 Edelman Trust Barometer, societies around the globe are facing an epidemic of misinformation and widespread mistrust.  For more than 20 years, the Edelman Trust Barometer has measured trust in businesses, government, NGOs and the media. According to Executive Vice President Tamara Rodman, who leads Edelman's Employee Experience Team, this year's report is an urgent call for communicators to work with business leaders on maintaining and rebuilding trust. Tamara is a frequent and favorite guest of EE Voice, bringing 20 years of experience in organizational communications, culture, leadership development and employee engagement across a broad swath of industries. She points out that this moment in time presents an opportunity for executives and business leaders ― one that will require the deft and proactive guidance of internal communications professionals.Continue Reading → The post Episode #54 – Ta

Over the past year, we've experienced a seismic shift in the way we work. Being in the midst of those changes can make them harder to see and understand. In this podcast, Victoria Dew, SCMP, Founder and CEO of Dewpoint Communications, walks us through these shifts while illustrating how communicators can reflect them in their strategic communications in the months ahead. Victoria's global business background includes 15 years as a trusted advisor to dozens of CEOs and executives. She tapped that network and beyond in her research into how we communicate and create experiences for people in the post-pandemic workplace. Victoria joins us to discuss issues from the normalization of employees as messy, complicated humans to what can happen when we stop treating employees as robots. She emphasizes the high stakes involved, as the potential consequences of burnout can cost companies up to 34% of an employee's salary.Continue Reading → The post EPISODE #53 – DEFINING AND EMBRACING THE NEW EMPLOYEE EXPERIENCE I

One of EE Voice's most-played ― and most important ― past episodes featured crisis management expert Andy Gilman discussing communications in the face of COVID-19. Now, Andy joins the podcast to help listeners navigate the latest developments in our current COVID reality, using communications to overcome vaccine hesitancy and compliance. His team recently launched RESTART to help organizations navigate COVID-19 recovery, increase vaccine compliance and support public health. These are complicated issues. But Andy explains how company leadership can view this challenge as an opportunity to strengthen company culture, improve morale and build trust. Have a listen to learn more about confronting these challenges, and learn more about Andy's team and work at CommCore Consulting.Continue Reading → The post EPISODE #52 – Crisis expert Andy Gilman: Your next big step – taking on the vaccine appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

What a crazy year! For those working in internal comms, it’s been nothing short of a rollercoaster, personally and professionally. Yet, we had some silver linings – and for Sharon and me, it was about tapping into experts to guide us through these trying times. At the end of every EE Voice podcast, we always ask our guests for their one piece of advice to leave with listeners. Here, we gather them all in one place, in less than 15 minutes.Continue Reading → The post EPISODE #51: OUR BEST IC EXPERT ADVICE FROM 2020 appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

As we close out a year marked by upheaval, experts predict more disruption ahead―including an uptick in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). For our 50th (!) EE Voice podcast, we welcome Louis de Schorlemer of Corporate Diplomat, an agency dedicated to managing M&A, diverstitures or reorganizations. Louis is an international leader in managing M&A communications. He brings a valuable perspective on the importance of centering people in the processes around these transactions. Louis discusses the sensitive nature of M&A activities, such as when a cash-rich business buys a struggling company, and he doesn't look away from the discomfort but instead guides clients on how to communicate through it in a mindful way.  He lays out strategies for analytical mapping and putting people in the right mindset. And he asks challenging questions about transparency and preparedness―and shares the "Four Ps" he's found to be instrumental for success. If you've never supported M&A before -- and even if you have -

In 2018, when comms pros Mark Dollins and Jon Stemmle were first wading into the research for their forthcoming book on internal communications, they couldn't have anticipated the seismic change we would all soon experience. Their timing will serve us well as we move forward in a post-COVID-19 world. Drawing from their ongoing research and their careers in the field and in the classroom, Mark and Jon joined us for the latest episode of EE Voice to discuss the foundational and emerging core competencies of internal comms, the personal stories behind the successes, and the thru-line of those who are charting a new course in an altered landscape.Continue Reading → The post Episode #49 – From the inside: A pair of IC experts write the book on internal comms appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

We love talking to Steve Crescenzo because where else can you gain practical, actionable comms advice through a conversation that includes a pet rabbit on the loose, (not) tolerating our spouses under COVID-19 quarantine, and leadership communications hostage videos? Steve and his wife and partner Cindy have had front row seats to the comms-coronavirus crisis response through their business, Crescenzo Communications. Steve joined the EE Voice podcast to talk about all they've learned – from the two things you must do to step up your internal comms leadership to the office culture shifts we're witnessing that he predicts are irreversible. Links referenced in the podcast: Whitepaper: 7 steps to futureproof your internal communications strategy Gallup study on the need for internal communications during the pandemic Crescenzo Communications upcoming webinars (happy hour included!): Employee Communication Master Class Writing Master Class Continue Reading → The post Episode #48: Steve Crescenzo on beco

Laura Field, a colleague, friend and fellow communicator, joined the Sharons to discuss how vital it is that we listen to our internal beings—particularly given all we are dealing with in this moment. Laura has an intriguing background -- being both a communications expert and a spiritual director -- and offers us  intriguing insights about self-care and burnout. Laura distills the reasons communicators are more susceptible to burnout, from our natures as thoughtful, nuanced and sensitive people to the oftentimes difficult reality of the environments where we operate. Sound familiar? Hang in for the second half of the broadcast when Laura outlines concrete practices we can put in place, beginning today, that will help us care for ourselves, humanize each other, and be in a better place to share our gifts and talents. You can learn more about Laura at Soul Play Online.Continue Reading → The post Episode #47 – Laura Field on how to beat burnout appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

Amid health, economic and social crises, our leaders are being asked communicate like never before.... and almost all virtually. For today's comms pros, creating and facilitating engaging virtual town halls, conferences and important meetings is possible - and even culturally rewarding. Plus, you're also helping your leaders communicate from their home offices. Need some solid tips and advice? Enter virtual virtuoso Stephanie Bickel of Speak by Design. She shares her expertise on delivering compelling content with strategies that cover everything from engaging attendees in the virtual waiting room to closing on a note that will have people clapping at their computers. Other resources: Follow Speak by Design on LinkedIn. Speak by Design is adds daily tips on Instagram.  Please follow, comment, and let us know what you think Download this whitepaper - Own the Zoom - for tips on virtual meeting excellence. Continue Reading → The post Episode #46 – Stephanie Bickel on creating engaging virtual internal ev

[Today's episode: 7 minutes] Can you hear them now? For a solid eight weeks, we've been working with managers on how best to communicate with their teams remotely during the COVID-19 crisis. This week—at your request—we turn that question on its head: How can leadership teams make sure they’re really hearing from staff and directing feedback effectively? In today's episode, we talk through our best strategies for expanding listening channels to make space for all this new traffic and keep it moving in the right directions. From surveys and focus groups to informal listening sessions, we cover approaches to soliciting feedback ― and offer you ideas on how to execute. Give it a listen, and then let us know what questions are keeping you up at night. We're listening.  Continue Reading → The post Episode #45: EE Voice CLIP – Broadening your leadership listening channels appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

Today we have a special episode of EE Voice: Mark Dollins (friend, comms pro and a former EE Voice guest) and I recently conducted a webinar to discuss the value of employee communications during COVID-19 -- as well as share best practices and helpful hints during this crisis. We wanted to offer another way for you to access this information, so this is the slimmed-down audio of the main presentation. You can view the full webinar -- including slides and audience polling -- at biznology.com. The webinar was hosted by Consultants Collective and moderated by its manager director, Jen McClure. Please let us know if Sharon and I can provide any additional help or advice during this challenging time.  Continue Reading → The post Episode #44 – (Special edition) THE VALUE OF EMPLOYEE COMMS DURING COVID-19 appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

Talk of COVID-19, or Coronavirus, is dominating the headlines, your timeline ― and probably your headspace. On top of your own family's health and wellbeing, you have your business, customers and employees to worry about. As you navigate the fine line between information-sharing and fear mongering, what's the right message to send? Andy Gilman - a well-known crisis comms expert --  has the answers in today's episode of EE Voice - in less than 15 minutes. (As anyone can now tell you, that's equivalent to time spent on about 45 hand-washings). Whether you are adapting an existing crisis communications plan or starting from scratch, you'll want to tune in for Andy's expertise. You can learn more about Andy and his company at CommCore Consulting.    Continue Reading → The post Episode #43 – Andy Gilman on Coronavirus Crisis Communications appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

If you're like most people, you have a high-tech video camera right at your fingertips ― and you're not making the most of it. Why let that potential go to waste? Grab your smartphone and take in these recording tips from our video maestro, EE production manager Ed Gilbert, who shares his deep audio/visual expertise for our latest EE Voice Clip. In less time than it takes to download the typical iPhone update, Ed covers advice from how to hold your phone to improving lighting and audio. It’s like an eight-minute master class in smartphone recording. Whether you're considering video as a way to capture that employee interview or you want to feature an executive, this EE Voice Clip is well worth a listen.Continue Reading → The post Episode #42: EE Voice Clip – How can I create the best videos with my iPhone? appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

Welcome to our second EE Voice CLIP - our Quora for communicators -- where we answer a listener's question in less than 8 minutes. Today's question is: How can I create an effective 2020 employee comms strategy? Sharon and I are always surprised how many companies we speak to don’t have a full year communications plan – and it’s critical. A solid strategy gives you the journey map to success – both personally as a leader and for your employees -- and done right – ultimately to drive business success. So here are some quick tips and tricks to start or improve upon your 2020 comms plan ... wrapped up in just 5 minutes.Continue Reading → The post Episode #41: EE Voice CLIP – How can I create an effective 2020 employee comms strategy? appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.

Strengthening relationships with employees in global settings is a topic near and dear to my heart, as I spent many years at PepsiCo working with our regional teams. For communicators, launching a global initiative can be an exciting career opportunity. Yet, despite advances in technology, significant gaps still exist that can hinder your success. To help us better understand some of these challenges and get real-world solutions—we (well, Sharon did, since I was with a client) hosted Ray Walsh, a communications consultant for multinational companies, on the latest episode of the EE Voice Podcast. Based in Prague, Ray has deep expertise in helping global organizations with communications and content. In addition, Ray’s experience living and working in Europe both in-house and as a consultant provides valuable insight and perspective for communicators looking to increase their global acumen in 2020.Continue Reading → The post Episode #40: Go global (and local) with employee comms in 2020 appeared first on

We thought we’d end the year with a little twist – a new, abbreviated format which we hope you’ll find easy to fit into your busy day. With EE Voice Clip we aim to answer -- in under 8 minutes – a question that employee comms pros have on their minds. Sort of like a Quora for Comms. Our first question we answer is: How can I spice up my CEO's end-of-year letter. Sharon and I offer some ideas to consider - some creative, some more traditional. And all in six minutes.Continue Reading → The post Episode #39: EE Voice CLIP – How can I spice up my CEO’s end-of-year letter? appeared first on FIR Podcast Network.