Requirements
An entry-level internal communications assistant would be expected to support the internal communications manager.
Tasks could include:
- organising distribution of the employee magazine
- collating feedback and measurement for the team brief
- keeping crisis communication information updated
- managing media library of images for internal/external use
- researching and writing stories for use in various communication channels
- supporting the communications team during events
- organising invitations, RSVPs, collating powerpoint slide decks etc.
This is not an exhaustive list but gives an indication of the range of activities and responsibilities required for an entry-level internal communications role.
The journalism connection
Internal communications is likened to being an ‘internal journalist’ for a company so the qualities you need should be likened to those of a journalist.
The Lifestyle
The hours very much depend on the role and company. If you work for a multi-national organisation with time zones different to your own, employees working shifts or 24/7 operation, it won’t be 9-5, particularly if you need to travel.
The HR connection
Internal communicators should be in liaison with every part of an organisation, not just HR. Some companies operate using a business partner approach, with internal communicators working alongside various departments offering advice and creating communications campaigns to support their projects.
Further ideas for breaking into internal communications
On the whole more companies appear to be recognising the value of communications and recruiting internal communicators. The key thing for communications professionals is to gain as much experience as possible, to join professional bodies such as CIPR, CiB and IABC, and to ensure their skills are kept updated through courses and qualifications. A popular qualification is the post-graduate diploma in Internal Communication Management offered by Kingston University/Capita in London and the various diplomas from the CIPR.
#1 by Cassandra on 28/08/2010 - 11:35 AM
Liaising with other parts of an organisation sounds like the most interesting part of internal comms.
#2 by Kagem Tibaijuka on 13/09/2010 - 1:34 PM
Maybe taking a postgraduate course as well? This seems like a good way to break into the industry.