what is an internal communications manager?

As an internal communications manager, you ensure the employees are well-informed and driven. While the specific responsibilities depend on the company, you must ensure internal communications align with the organisation's strategy. Internal communication is done through various channels like the staff intranet, regular newsletters, email bulletins and social media pages.

what does an internal communications manager do?

Internal communications managers work with senior executives of a company and relay feedback on various issues to employees. Creating organisational messages keeps staff involved in the company's developments. For instance, if there is a change in company ownership, you formulate the internal response to minimise misinformation. You also keep people calm during crises and ensure the employees understand the situation. If the business suffers losses, you need to address impending structural changes with extra care to avoid ruining employees' morale. After retrenchments, you must also address the layoffs to ensure employees understand the logic behind the difficult decisions.

Most internal communications managers work in large companies in both the private and public sectors. Some work in charities and not-for-profit organisations. Internal communications managers are also vital in educational institutions like colleges and universities. They coordinate the flow of information between departments and create guidelines for communicating with staff and partners on different issues in the institution.

Would working as an internal communications manager suit your writing and communication skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an internal communications manager role.
 

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average internal communication manager salary

According to ONS, the average salary of an internal communications manager is £42,982 per year. Entry-level positions attract a salary of £37,414 annually since you have minimal skills and experience. However, experienced internal communications managers have a compensation package of £58,827 per year.

The role is in senior management. Hence, you will receive multiple benefits and allowances. For instance, most companies provide medical insurance and house and transport allowances. You also enjoy vacation days and paid sick leave. Some companies have bonuses and share benefits with internal communications managers.

what factors affect the salaries of internal communications managers?

As an internal communications manager, your salary depends on your qualifications and years of experience. When you have over five years of experience, you will earn more than someone starting the role. You also bring more transferable skills when you have additional qualifications. Hence you can demand a higher salary.

The salary structures for the public and private sectors differ, which means you can earn more in private companies with additional resources. However, some public sector communication roles attract higher salaries due to the job's complexity. The compensation package for internal communications managers in charities and not-for-profit organisations depends on their size and resources.
 

smiling male attending a video call
smiling male attending a video call
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types of internal communications managers

The types of internal communications managers depend on the sector they work for and the mode of communication they specialise in. Some include:

  • private internal communications manager: as an internal communications manager working in the private sector, you ensure the employees are motivated by keeping them informed on company development. You also handle internal communications during a restructuring and major company changes.
  • public internal communications manager: as an internal communications manager in the public sector, you work for local authorities or the national government. Your job is to keep government employees on policy changes and communicate other important information like new salary structures or policies.

     
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working as an internal communications manager

An internal communications manager promotes the company's strategy and ensures the messaging aligns with the organisation's policies and vision. Let's explore some of internal communications managers' roles and career prospects.

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education and skills

To become an internal communications manager, you need the educational qualifications below:

  • undergraduate degree: you need to complete a bachelor's degree in public relations or communications or other related courses like English or history to get a strong start on your career. Degrees in business and strategic management also increase your career prospects and help you climb up the ranks faster.
  • work experience: you need many years of experience to become an internal communications manager. That means you need internships and entry-level jobs in communications to grow your skills and experience level.

skills and competencies

Some of the skills of an internal communications manager include:

  • writing skills: as an international communications manager, you need exceptional writing skills. You should be an expert in crafting various types of content, from blog posts to newsletters and internal announcements. You also need editing and proofreading skills and the journalistic ability to source stories.
  • speaking skills: as an internal communications manager, you make multiple presentations to staff. Hence, you need strong presentation and speaking skills. You need to be sensitive to employees' goals and values and relay the message in line with the company's vision.
  • interpersonal skills: as an internal communications manager, you collaborate with multiple departments to ensure the flow of information within the company. Interpersonal skills help you relate well with others and communicate with different staff members.
  • organisational skills: since the company uses multiple communication channels, you need organisational skills to ensure the editorial calendar is up to date. You should plan your schedule and time to keep up with the meetings and other events.
  • creativity: as an internal communications manager, you need to be creative to devise exciting communication strategies. Familiarity with information technology is also essential in creating internal messages.
     
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close-up, female smiling
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FAQs

FAQs about working as an internal communications manager

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