Inclusive internal community campaigns can strengthen connections, enhance engagement, and foster a sense of belonging among employees. When designed thoughtfully, they can break down silos, celebrate diversity, and drive collaboration. Here are ten ideas aligned with inclusive communication, co-creation, and the goal of creating a just workplace culture.
1. ‘A Day in the Life’ campaign
Goal: Build appreciation for different roles within the organization.
What to do: Invite employees from various departments to share a day in their life through short videos, photos, or blog posts. Highlighting the challenges and successes of different roles fosters understanding, breaks down departmental silos, and enhances respect for each other’s work.
2. Inclusive conversation groups (‘Lunch Talks’ or ‘Coffee Corners’)
Goal: Create space for open dialogue on key themes like diversity, inclusion, and belonging.
What to do: Host informal discussion sessions where employees can talk in small groups about topics like cultural differences, gender equality, or personal stories of inclusion. Guest speakers or facilitators can add depth and structure to these conversations.
3. ‘Your Voice Matters’ feedback rounds
Goal: Empower employees by giving them a platform to share ideas and concerns.
What to do: Set up regular feedback opportunities, such as a monthly “Feedback Friday.” Use these sessions to collect suggestions and visibly implement a few ideas, showing employees their input matters and has an impact.
4. Belonging spotlights
Goal: Show employees that their presence and contributions are valued.
What to do: Recognize successes, personal milestones, and team achievements through a monthly newsletter or a “Belonging Spotlight” wall. This simple acknowledgment fosters pride and a sense of connection within teams.
5. Talent days or Peer-to-peer workshops
Goal: Encourage employees to appreciate each other’s skills and talents.
What to do: Organize regular workshops where employees share their expertise or hobbies. Whether it’s technical skills or personal passions like photography or mindfulness, these sessions create a collaborative atmosphere and highlight the diverse talents within the team.
6. ‘Be Part of It’ Co-creation sessions
Goal: Involve employees in shaping policies and driving innovation.
What to do: Host brainstorming sessions where employees can collaborate on themes like workplace culture or process improvements. By inviting ideas and feedback, you cultivate a culture of innovation and shared ownership.
7. Inclusive calendar and celebrations
Goal: Make diversity visible and appreciated.
What to do: Develop an inclusive calendar that acknowledges cultural, religious, and personal milestones. Organize activities, such as lunch-and-learn events, where teams can explore observances like Ramadan, Diwali, or Pride Month. These events foster understanding and respect for different perspectives.
Did you know that Good Comms has such a calendar? Subscribe here.
8. Resilience stories: ‘What inspires you?’
Goal: Connect employees on a personal level through shared stories.
What to do: Encourage employees to share inspirational stories about overcoming challenges or moments of resilience. These can be highlighted through newsletters, intranet posts, or short videos, creating a sense of shared humanity within the workplace.
9. Mentor and buddy program
Goal: Build connections through peer support and mentoring.
What to do: Pair new employees with experienced colleagues as buddies or mentors. This program promotes knowledge-sharing, professional development, and a sense of belonging, especially for those new to the organization.
10. ‘Walk in their shoes’ job shadowing
Goal: Foster empathy and understanding for different roles.
What to do: Arrange for employees to shadow someone from another department or function for a day. This helps them appreciate the challenges and contributions of colleagues, boosting collaboration and empathy across the organization.
In other words
These campaigns go beyond basic communication to create a truly inclusive and engaged workplace culture. By focusing on open dialogue, shared experiences, and co-creation, you’re not only enhancing employee satisfaction but also building a workplace where everyone feels heard, valued, and connected.
When employees feel pride in their roles and a sense of belonging, they contribute more passionately, and that energy transforms organizations from the inside out.#
