In this article, we explore why taking ownership of the internal communications technology strategy could be a worthwhile power move for comms professionals and why now could be the time to pounce.
The line between traditional business roles and technological expertise is becoming increasingly blurred.
This shift is particularly true for internal communicators, whose role now extends beyond crafting and delivering messages. Today, they must also manage and influence the internal communications technology strategy to meet the demands of their organizations.
For Chief Information Officers (CIOs), this shift is particularly vital as they increasingly push for shared leadership in technology across departments. Taking ownership of the internal communications technology strategy is not only necessary but also a powerful way for communicators to position themselves as strategic leaders within their companies.
By actively shaping the technology strategy in their department, internal communicators can enhance their credibility, streamline processes, leverage data for decision-making, future-proof their careers, and unlock new opportunities for advancement.
CIOs are pushing for shared tech ownership
A growing trend highlighted by a recent Gartner survey shows that 46% of CIOs are now moving toward co-owning digital leadership within their organizations.
The report emphasizes that CIOs who co-own efforts with their peers, placing the design and management of digital capabilities in the hands of those closest to where value is created, are more successful in maximizing digital investments.
The internal comms career playbook
This trend directly impacts internal communicators. To remain relevant and effective, they must take ownership of the internal communications technology strategy, collaborating with IT to ensure that their technology needs are met while aligning with broader organizational goals. This shared responsibility doesn’t just improve departmental performance but also creates new opportunities for internal communicators to drive digital transformation.
How ownership of the internal communications technology strategy enhances credibility
When internal communicators take responsibility for their internal communications technology strategy, they enhance their credibility within the organization. By understanding the tools, platforms, and systems that drive internal communications, they can position themselves as strategic partners who contribute not only to messaging but also to the organization’s digital growth.
Communicators who can confidently speak about technology – and even lead decisions regarding communication platforms – are more likely to be seen as forward-thinking leaders. They become integral players in driving initiatives such as employee engagement, culture transformation, and crisis communications. This positions internal communicators as influential stakeholders, capable of shaping both communications and the technology that supports it.
Improving communication efficiency with the right technology
Taking ownership of the internal communications technology strategy allows communicators to implement tools and platforms that streamline communication processes. Low-code intranets, for example, offer a user-friendly solution that allows non-technically minded communicators to easily take control of their internal communications technology strategy without needing in-depth IT skills.
The internal comms career playbook
For instance, by adopting intranet software that provides an intuitive content management system (CMS), a rich content editor with AI assistance, and integrations with other business tools and platforms, internal communicators can reduce the time spent on manual tasks like content creation and distribution, or publishing the same content across multiple different platforms. This shift allows them to focus more on strategic communication initiatives – whether it’s enhancing employee engagement, driving alignment with business goals, or improving the clarity of internal messaging.
An effective internal communications technology strategy improves not only the efficiency of the communication team but also the organization’s overall communication efforts, as employees receive timely and well-delivered messages.
Leveraging data for smarter decision making
One of the most powerful aspects of technology is its ability to provide valuable insights through data. When internal communicators take ownership of their internal communications technology strategy, they gain access to a wealth of analytics tools that offer insights into employee engagement, message effectiveness, and overall communication performance.
Using this data, communicators can make smarter, data-driven decisions. For example, analytics can show which types of content are resonating most with employees, which communication channels are most effective, and where there may be gaps in engagement. This allows communicators to optimize their strategies, ensuring that the right messages are delivered in the most impactful way.
Additionally, presenting these data-driven insights to leadership boosts the communicator’s credibility and influence within the organization. It demonstrates that they are not just communicating but doing so in a way that drives measurable results and contributes to business success.
Future-proofing your career
The role of internal communicators is evolving rapidly alongside the digital landscape. By taking ownership of their internal communications technology strategy, communicators can future-proof their careers and stay ahead of technological trends that are reshaping industries.
The internal comms career playbook
Digital transformation is impacting every sector, and communicators who are proficient in technology are more likely to remain relevant and competitive in the job market. Understanding emerging platforms, internal comms AI tools, and data analytics allows internal communicators to stay current and adaptable, positioning them as valuable assets in an increasingly digital workplace.
What’s more, communicators who lead their department’s technology strategy are better prepared to navigate future changes in the way organizations communicate, ensuring they maintain their influence and impact in the years to come.
Unlocking career advancement opportunities
Embracing the internal communications technology strategy can open doors to new roles and career advancement opportunities. As internal communicators become proficient in digital tools and platforms, they are well-positioned to take on leadership roles that require a blend of communication and technical expertise.
For instance, roles such as digital communications manager, social media strategist, or even hybrid roles that span IT and communications may become accessible to communicators who demonstrate their digital acumen. These roles come with increased responsibilities, higher visibility, and often better compensation.
What’s more, by taking ownership of their department’s technology strategy, communicators can lead cross-departmental projects and collaborate more effectively with IT, showcasing their leadership potential. This visibility can lead to promotions and increased recognition within the organization.
Final thoughts on owning the internal communications technology strategy
In the modern workplace, internal communicators must go beyond their traditional roles and take ownership of their internal communications technology strategy. By doing so, they enhance their credibility as strategic partners, streamline communication processes, make data-driven decisions, and future-proof their careers in an ever-changing digital environment.
As CIOs continue to push for shared tech ownership across departments, internal communicators have a unique opportunity to embrace technology leadership within their organizations. Taking control of the internal communications technology strategy not only contributes to the success of their initiatives but also paves the way for career advancement and professional growth in a rapidly evolving industry.
By positioning themselves as tech-savvy communicators, they can seize new opportunities, demonstrate their value, and secure a future as indispensable leaders in the digital age.
The internal comms career playbook
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