Internal communication at your department

Last changed: 07 October 2025

How does internal communication work in your unit? If you want to improve it, you’ll find some useful tips here.

Why is internal communication important?

Effective internal communication leads to:

  • better results
  • motivation and a strong sense of belonging
  • greater ability to manage change
  • easier collaboration
  • stronger alignment around goals
  • better overview for employees
  • less misinformation and rumours

When our internal and external messages are consistent, we strengthen SLU as a workplace and as a partner.

Different types of communication

  • Operational communication – information needed to do the job (who does what, meeting agendas, work procedures, etc.)
  • News communication – updates about what’s happening in the organisation, locally and centrally
  • Steering communication – long-term direction, strategies, policies, project plans, budgets, etc.
  • Cultural communication – values, ethics, attitudes and the informal culture (“the things that live in the walls”)
  • Change communication – communication supporting transitions and new initiatives
  • Informal communication – everyday exchanges that shape relationships and culture

Types of communication channels

  • Digital channels – Staff web, email, SharePoint, chat, blogs, etc.
  • Written channels – posters, minutes, memos, magazines, reports, etc.
  • Oral channels – meetings, briefings, conferences, training sessions, video meetings, etc.

Your target audience should always guide your choice of channel.

Facts:

“Every employee and student is responsible for seeking the information needed for their work, and for communicating with colleagues and managers about matters that are important to the organisation.”

“Everyone in a managerial position is responsible for ensuring that both external and internal communication functions effectively within their area of responsibility.”

These quotations are from SLU’s Communication Policy.