July 28, 2009

How WIIFM Can Boost Your Employee Response

The most important part of any communication is making sure that you have a clearly written message that includes the WIIFM targeted directly to your audience. What’s "WIIFM"? It’s the core message that you need to send to employees – it's simply what we're all looking for: “What’s In It For Me.”

Many internal communicators are focused on getting out their message and as a result, they focus primarily on the basics:
  • Who needs to receive the message
  • What you want to tell them
  • When they need to respond
  • Where they can find information
  • Why they need to take action
  • How to take the next step

But the other “W” – WIIFM – is the most important “W” you can use to help you get a response from your employees.  The WIIFM helps your employees understand the value of each message you send. The value that you, as an employer, place on having them as an employee. The value that you, the employer, want to add to their lives or their – through the benefit, service or whatever you are discussing in this communication.

By consistently adding the WIIFM in your employee communications and speaking to what’s important to them, you will encourage your employees to:

  • Open more of your communications - you're talking to them, not at them.
  • Understand your true message - they'll understand why this is important to them.
  • Respond and take action - why wouldn't they? You've told them why they should care.

What are some examples of the WIIFM you've added to your employee communications? How was your response? We’d love to hear how this has worked for you. Click on the comment link below and tell us what's worked for you.
Jul 28, 2009 11:30:44 AM | Employee Engagement, HR Marketing, Internal Communications

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Jane Vanderhorst

Vanderhorst Consulting works with organizations to develop and deliver on-target, results driven communications that engage employees, build sales and retain customers.

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