Communication should not only explain the process. More importantly, it should create meaning and clearly position the intention behind the initiative.
Employees are much more likely to engage when they understand how the initiative can concretely improve their experience at work.
Key messages to highlight
✅ Here are the key ideas that should guide the communication around the initiative:
Responses will be used to support conversations, not simply fill a file;
The tools help better understand needs and perspectives;
Managers will have stronger reference points to support employees;
Employees will have more space to express what matters to them;
The initiative is meant to lead to concrete actions, not just collect information.
A strong message should create three effects
Desired effect | What the communication should accomplish |
Reassure | Clarify the intention, how results will be used, and the limits of the initiative |
Encourage participation | Show that responses can lead to better conversations and meaningful follow-ups |
Build trust | Explain that the initiative is constructive, respectful, and focused on development |
Example wording
“This initiative is designed to support richer and more concrete conversations.
Self-assessments will give employees space to reflect on their experience, needs, and aspirations.
360 feedback will help broaden perspectives around strengths, collaboration, and opportunities for growth.
The goal is to better understand, better support, and better help employees grow.”
Best practices for stronger communication
The communication will have the greatest impact when it:
Clearly explains what happens after responses are submitted;
Emphasizes that the follow-up conversation is the most important part of the process;
Gives examples of situations where the tools could have been useful;
Reassures employees that the initiative is not designed to catch people doing something wrong.
Common pitfalls to avoid ⚠️
Presenting the initiative as a new obligation;
Focusing mostly on forms or surveys;
Suggesting that written responses replace conversations;
Remaining vague about how results will be used;
Communicating only at launch without reinforcing the intention afterward.
Reminder: Good communication encourages participation because it shows employees that the initiative can genuinely help them grow and move forward. 🚀