Going Mobile With Employee Communication

By 2015, the global mobile workforce will reach 1.3 billion or 37.2 percent of the total labor force, according to International Data Corp.

In many ways, communicating with employees who rely on receiving information via a mobile device is no different than communicating with employees in an office. The same basic rules apply: communicate frequently, keep your messages clear and consistent, and be timely and relevant.

But, employers aren’t communicating well with remote employees. According to Fortune Magazine, 84 percent of “non-desk” workers say they do not receive adequate information from management and 75 percent say their employers aren’t telling them enough about changes in policies and goals.

Why can we successfully leverage technology in other aspects of business, yet stumble when we apply it to communicating with employees who work remotely on mobile devices? Perhaps it’s because too much focus is put on getting information to mobile employees and not enough on the content itself.

Mobile employees want the same information as office employees. They want to receive company news and information that helps them achieve personal and organizational success. They want to stay connected to the organization and contribute to the company winning at its game. The only difference is that mobile employees need information delivered in tight, concise packages that succinctly convey the most important information and eliminate unnecessary background. To accomplish that, try these tips:

Format your content for your mobile users

In the mobile world, information must be short and to the point. Structure your message so the first few words relay the most salient points or the required action. Use this technique for your busy office employees as well; they will appreciate it too.

Use identifiers to help employees prioritize communications

Consistently tag communications so employees know at a glance what needs immediate attention and what can wait until later. Numerous options exist for tagging messages. Just make sure you use the method consistently.

Remember all of your mobile users may not be “remote” employees

One in every five people currently carries a smart phone, which means some employees who previously didn’t have instant access to information—for example, manufacturing line employees — now do. When it counts, plan your communication so information gets to all employees at the same time. This will keep everyone feeling valued and no one feeling slighted.

Use face-to-face communication when it counts

Benefits changes, recognition, major reorganizations, personnel changes and crisis management typically require face-to-face communication. Mobile employees deserve the same consideration regarding these issues as office employees, so when the subject matter is critically important, call a meeting.

Are you communicating adequately with your mobile employees or do you need help reaching them with news and information? Use your own smart phone and call Ward for assistance. Our expert internal communication team can help you connect with your employees wherever they may roam.