Study: companies aren't communicating with employees

American workers say their employers are not adequately communicating with them about the current economic crisis and how it impacts their employment, according to a new report. In fact, more than half of those surveyed say that their company's management had not communicated with them at all about the health of economy and its implications for their business.

As we have said before, internal communications bring great value to an organization, particularly during challenging times. Done right, they demonstrate leadership, eliminate rumor and confusion in the workplace, and boost workforce morale. Communicating with a workforce can also improve external communications, because a well-informed workforce can more effectively represents its employer at home and in the community.

Forward-thinking organizations should ask themselves: when did we last communicate with our employees? Did we discuss the current economic climate and its implications for our business? Who is responsible for keeping our workforce informed and engaged in the success of our organization? The answer should say a lot about your communications strategy.