Effective Communication Strategies for Navigating Change

During a recent talk at the GamesIndustry.biz HR Summit, veteran communications expert Cat Channon provided valuable insights on effective communication through change, emphasizing the importance of considering the human impact when sharing information with staff about significant events such as layoffs, major mergers and acquisitions, or global crises affecting employees. With over 30 years of experience in the gaming industry, Channon has worked with numerous prominent companies, including Warner Bros, Blizzard, and EA, where she oversaw a team responsible for a workforce of 13,000 people across 23 locations. Her extensive experience has taught her the significance of cultural nuance in communication and its substantial impact on the effectiveness of communications. Channon highlighted various types of change that can affect the workplace, including management changes, restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, policy changes, and global events. She emphasized that each of these changes can have a profound impact on employees and that clear communication is essential in mitigating negative effects and promoting positive outcomes. To achieve effective communication through change, Channon recommended several key strategies, including testing the thinking behind the change, having a well-planned communication strategy, getting the story straight and sticking to it, considering the needs of the audience, and timing communications appropriately. She also emphasized the importance of bringing in communications partners early, testing the thinking behind the change, making a plan and sticking to it, and considering the needs of the audience. Channon shared her personal experience of being made redundant twice, highlighting the significant difference that clear and consistent communication can make in such situations. She also discussed the effects of change on business, including share price, reputational risk, talent retention, employee engagement, business development, and continuity. Ultimately, Channon urged HR professionals in the gaming industry to prioritize the human impact of change and to develop effective communication strategies that take into account the needs of their audience. By doing so, companies can minimize the negative effects of change and promote a more positive and supportive work environment.