Communication that Connects Creates Culture
I was trying to describe how I see the role of Internal Communication to a client the other day. After we have created our vision, mission, values and strategy…how do they live in words and actions? For me, the visual that always comes to mind is the thread that starts with the plans and then […]
Language Shapes Culture
It’s taken me a while, but I’ve finally decided to proactively change my language. For years, I’ve used the word “stakeholder” without thinking twice. It’s deeply embedded in business, strategy, communication, and leadership language. I teach it. I write it. I’ve said it thousands of times. But the more I’ve listened, learned, and reflected, the […]
Words. Actions. Impact.
I was at a networking event recently and got into a really interesting conversation with a Human Rights Lawyer who now trains executives. I asked her whether she felt she had more credibility with leaders because of her experience in litigation and she immediately said yes. Then she said something that really stuck with me. […]
I always get really excited about the publishing of Gallagher State of the Sector/Employee Experience
I always get really excited about the publishing of Gallagher State of the Sector/Employee Experience. Last year, I have to admit that the results fell a little flat for me and I questioned whether it would continue to be my go-to report on the State of Internal Communication. I’m happy to report that they have […]
I’m a boring Internal Communication Professional.
I’m a boring Internal Communication Professional. Not the clever one with the viral campaigns. Not the flashy one with cinematic launch videos.Not the one who turns every message into a meme. Not the one looking for a laugh. Boring. Now don’t get me wrong. I appreciate the creative stuff. There is a rush that comes […]
Have you heard of the Empty Boat theory?
The empty boat theory, originating from a Daoist parable by Zhuangzi, teaches that most frustrations and personal slights are like being hit by an empty, drifting boat: there is no malicious intent behind them. It made me think about where this happens in organizations when employees are quick to assign motive: But often…it’s an empty boat. Perhaps […]
Are Internal Communication Professionals Ready to Become Trust Brokers?
I read the Edelman Trust Barometer (2026) and found myself wondering not about the data, but about the opportunity that feels within reach. In a world shaped by polarization, grievance, and growing insularity, Edelman names trust brokering as a critical response. It identifies employers as one of the few institutions still positioned to do this […]
Tune in to the Happeo Unmuted podcast with Priya Bates
Courage, Strategy, and Breaking the Cycle of Communication Gaps Stop asking for more resources. Start finding your courage. “Internal communicators need courage and confidence, not just more budget.” If you listen to one episode of Happeo Unmuted this month, make it this one (Episode 10). We move past the tactical stuff and get into the […]
How Different Audiences Experience Values
Values are often described as who we are and how we do things around here.Yet in many organizations, values live on walls, websites, posters or slide decks while employees experience something very different in their day-to-day work. At Inner Strength Communication Inc., we’ve seen this pattern repeatedly across sectors:leaders believe values are clear and well-communicated, […]
From Tactical to Strategic: Elevating Your Role as a Communication Professional
In internal communication, many professionals find themselves caught in the cycle of executing tasks—managing channels, writing content, delivering campaigns—without always being invited into the strategic conversations that shape organizational direction. The shift from tactical to strategic isn’t about abandoning the important day-to-day work. It’s about repositioning yourself so that your contributions directly influence business outcomes, […]
Beyond the Buzzwords: How to Hire a True Internal Communication Expert
By Priya Bates Internal communication has finally earned a seat at the strategic table—so why are so many pulling up a chair without doing the work? As someone who has worked in this field for more than 25 years, I’m increasingly concerned by the number of individuals and agencies entering the space with little to […]
In Uncertain Times, Connection—Not Control—is the Answer
On June 14, 2025, we saw two vastly different leadership styles play out on the global stage. One was loud, choreographed, and commanding—an orchestrated show of military power in support of former President Donald Trump. The other was messy, grassroots, and profoundly human—a sea of people marching in protest, demanding rights, accountability, and change. Two […]