It can be difficult for many internal communications and HR teams to gain leadership support for a communication tool. The largest hurdle can be gathering the confidence needed to attempt to secure buy-in.
Communication Plans: 5 Ways to Gain Confidence & Secure Buy-in
Getting buy-in is one of the main challenges, along with lacking time, managing issues, and coming up with innovative internal communication campaigns.
A key reason for leadership buy-in is that you need their approval on the budget for your chosen tool, so they need to get involved in the process from the beginning. It’s not the only thing to consider, though. Even after the tool is purchased, leaders can influence their employees and encourage them to use it. When a leadership team opposes your efforts, this is problematic. I have developed five crucial steps to achieve leadership buy-in for your team’s communications app.
1. To Secure Buy-in: Synchronize
You need their priorities in sync with your communication plans to get leadership buy-in for your communications tool. Immediately explain to the organization and its employees how the tool can bring value. Verify that they understand why to be on board with the tool and why it is essential. This groundwork helps leaders understand the rationale and validates your case. Here are some helpful presentation tips for your pitch.
2. Explain
Especially when it comes at a cost, leaders are naturally risk-averse. It can ease concerns about efficacy if you explain how the tool will benefit the company. Relevant case studies, reviews, and statistics help me convey proof to leadership that the proposed tool is much needed.
3. Gather Numbers
Prepare all the information you need to present your case, including any quotes you need from suppliers. Leaders often want to know the value and benefits of a particular tool. Profitability, employee engagement, a motivated workforce, and higher company net earnings could be among the rewards. I use relevant and focused points to communicate the tool’s benefits. Remember, the key here is justifying the expense.
4. Execute Perfect Timing
Timing is an important consideration when introducing a new communications tool. It is crucial to engage decision-makers early in the process, so they know about any plans before research, testing, and evaluation of a tool is undertaken. Consider the timing of this project tactically. If you choose to do it during busy times for leadership, it will be hard to get them on board and engaged. Time your research, testing, and implementation of your comms plan, and allow time to familiarize yourself with it. Establish regular review dates so you can stay on top of the project.
5. Gain Feedback
By understanding how your leaders think, you can detect potential obstacles to buy-in. Take the direct approach and answer their questions early. By getting input from the leaders, you will be able to understand their perspectives, which can prove invaluable in ensuring success. Leadership team members will be more engaged in the project if they feel they have contributed in some way.
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