With their intimate knowledge of the internal audience and the resources to deliver impactful communications, Internal Communications teams hold immense potential to enhance organizational cohesion and productivity. However, this potential can be overshadowed by frustration when these teams fail to collaborate or serve the needs of their stakeholders.

When internal communications teams act as barriers instead of partners, they create ripple effects of inefficiency and disengagement. Stakeholders who depend on their expertise and access to communication channels often find themselves stuck and unable to get their message out or achieve their objectives. This breakdown can push individuals and teams to go rogue, bypassing formal processes and creating fragmented communication that undermines organizational goals.

If you find yourself dealing with an uncooperative internal communications team, you’re not alone. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigate this challenge and ensure your message gets the attention it deserves.

1. Clarify Your Objectives

Before engaging with the internal communications team, define your goals clearly. What do you need to communicate, and why is it important? Having a well-articulated plan with measurable objectives can help you present a compelling case to the team and demonstrate the value of your message.

Additionally, consider how your objectives align with organizational priorities. Internal communications teams are often stretched thin and must prioritize requests that align with broader company goals. By framing your needs in the context of these priorities, you increase your chances of gaining their support.

2. Understand Their Processes

Take the time to learn how the internal communications team operates. What are their workflows, timelines, and constraints? Understanding their processes can help you align your requests with their capacity. Ask questions about their decision-making criteria and preferred formats for submissions.

When you approach them with this knowledge, you signal respect for their expertise and are more likely to engage them in a productive partnership.

3. Foster Collaborative Dialogue

Open and honest communication is critical. If you’re facing pushback, schedule a meeting to discuss your needs in detail. Frame the conversation around problem-solving rather than blame. For example, instead of saying, “You’re blocking my project,” try, “I’d like to understand how we can work together to achieve this objective.”

Collaboration is a two-way street, and fostering a relationship of mutual respect and trust can lead to better outcomes. When both parties feel heard, they are more likely to compromise and find workable solutions.

4. Document and Escalate When Necessary

If collaborative efforts fail, document your interactions. Keep records of emails, meeting notes, and other communications to ensure you have a clear trail of your efforts to work with the team.

If the roadblocks persist, consider escalating the issue to a higher level of management. Present your case factually, focusing on the impact of delayed or ineffective communication on your project and the organization. Be prepared to propose solutions that address both your needs and the team’s concerns.

5. Explore Alternative Channels

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, internal communications teams may remain uncooperative. In such cases, explore alternative channels to reach your audience. This could include leveraging departmental newsletters, team meetings, or social platforms used internally. While not ideal, these workarounds can ensure your message reaches its intended audience without unnecessary delays.

However, be cautious about going completely rogue. Unauthorized communications can create confusion and damage your credibility. Strive to remain aligned with organizational guidelines and principles wherever possible.

6. Consider External Expertise

When internal roadblocks become insurmountable, it may be time to bring in external experts. A professional communications firm like Outpeel can provide the strategic support you need, offering tailored communications plans, campaigns, and messaging that align with your goals.

Outpeel’s expertise extends beyond simply crafting messages; we help navigate complex organizational dynamics and ensure your communications land effectively. By partnering with an external firm, you can bypass internal bottlenecks and focus on achieving your objectives with clarity and confidence.

Conclusion

An effective internal communications team can be a powerful ally, but when they fail to collaborate, the frustration is real. Rather than succumbing to the barriers, take proactive steps to address the challenges. From clarifying objectives and fostering dialogue to exploring alternative solutions and seeking external expertise, there are paths to overcome these obstacles.

Outpeel can assist your organization in meeting its growing internal communications needs. Contact us to work with your team on an effective strategy.