Internal Communication Strategies and Employee Engagement

Abstract

Purpose: The general purpose of the study was to investigate internal communi8cation strategies and employee engagement.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to political public relations. Preliminary empirical review revealed that the importance of effective internal communication strategies in fostering employee engagement is evident from numerous studies, which consistently highlight the positive association between transparent communication, two-way communication, leadership communication, and the use of multiple communication channels with higher levels of engagement. Leadership communication, particularly, plays a crucial role in shaping organizational culture and values, impacting employees' commitment to organizational goals. However, challenges such as information overload, language barriers, and discrepancies in communication effectiveness across departments exist. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including training programs and technology investment. Overall, this study underscores the significance of internal communication in enhancing engagement and organizational success, emphasizing the need for future research to explore specific strategies and emerging trends in different organizational contexts.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Exchange theory, Self-Determination theory and Social Identity theory may be used to anchor future studies on internal communication strategies. The study offered key recommendations to enhance organizational practices and improve employee engagement. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, two-way communication, and effective leadership communication in fostering trust and collaboration among employees. Additionally, leveraging multiple communication channels, ensuring consistent messaging, and recognizing employee contributions are vital for promoting engagement and motivation. By implementing these recommendations, organizations can cultivate a positive work environment where employees feel valued, informed, and empowered to contribute to organizational success.