Internal Communications Officer: tasks, skills, training, salary and career development

With the growing importance of communication within companies, the role of the Internal Communications Officer has become essential in ensuring the cohesion and commitment of employees. This professional is responsible for implementing the internal communications strategy, ensuring that information flows smoothly and efficiently between the various departments and hierarchical levels.

Description of the job of Internal Communications Officer

The Internal Communications Officer is responsible for planning, creating and managing communications initiatives aimed at employees. He ensures that all important information is properly conveyed and understands the challenges of the company's overall communication. He works closely with the communications department to align internal messages with those of external communications.

What is the role and remit of the Internal Communications Officer?

Developing the internal communications strategy

• Drawing up the internal communications plan in conjunction with the Communications Department.
• Identifying the need for appropriate communications media for the various internal audiences.
• Implementing campaigns to strengthen the sense of belonging and corporate culture.

Managing and optimising internal communications media

• Creating and distributing newsletters, in-house journals, posters and intranet content.
• Organising in-house events such as seminars, conferences and team-building activities.
• Coordination of internal communication projects with service providers and internal teams.

Performance analysis and reporting

• Monitoring and analysing feedback on internal communication initiatives to assess their impact.
• Using communication and measurement tools such as surveys and participation analysis to adjust strategies.
• Presenting detailed reports to senior management to demonstrate the effectiveness of actions taken.

Managing internal and external relations

• Ensuring cohesion between internal and external communications to ensure a consistent brand image.
• Working with communication, press relations and media managers to harmonise messages.
• Manage event communication projects in conjunction with corporate communications.

Tools and technologies used by the Internal Communications Officer

Project management tools

• Trello, Asana, Jira for planning and monitoring communication projects.
• Office pack for creating and managing documents and presentations.

Content creation tools

• Adobe Creative Suite, Canva for designing visual media.
• Office tools for writing and formatting internal communications.

Measurement and analysis tools

• Google Analytics, Hotjar to measure engagement with digital media.
• Internal surveys and feedback to assess satisfaction and the effectiveness of communications.

What skills do you need to be a good Internal Communications Officer?

Professional skills:

• Mastery of internal communication techniques.
• Skills in writing and creating communication materials.
• Knowledge of project management tools and office software.
• Expertise in event organisation and logistics management.

Personal skills:

• Communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with different departments.
• Creativity to develop attractive and engaging content.
• Thoroughness and attention to detail to guarantee the quality of communications.
• Adaptability to respond to changes in the internal environment.
• Leadership to manage projects and motivate teams.

What are the current challenges facing an Internal Communications Officer?

Rapidly evolving communication technologies

• Continuously adapting to new technologies and digital communication tools.
• Integrating new communication channels such as corporate social networks.

Managing the quality and quantity of communications

• Balancing the production of frequent, high-quality content to keep employees engaged.
• Manage the diversity of communication media to reach different internal targets.

Measuring the effectiveness of communications

• Assessing the impact of communications initiatives on internal cohesion and productivity.
• Justify communication budgets by demonstrating a clear return on investment.

How do I become an Internal Communications Officer?

Education and training

To become an Internal Communications Manager, you generally need a degree in communications, marketing or human resources (Bac+3 to Bac+5). The following courses are particularly popular:

• Professional degree in communication
• Master's degree in communication or marketing
• Business school diploma with a specialisation in communication

EM Normandie also offers courses tailored to this profession. Among the programmes offered, the MSc International Marketing and Business Development is particularly relevant. This course provides the necessary skills in communication strategy, digital content management and data analysis, offering a complete preparation for becoming a successful Internal Communications Officer.

Professional experience

Significant experience in positions of responsibility in communications management is essential. Internships in communications agencies or as communications assistants are key steps towards becoming an Internal Communications Officer.

What are the career prospects for an Internal Communications Officer?

• Progression to Communication Manager, Communication Director or Chief Communication Officer (CCO).
• Opportunities in a variety of organisations, including large companies, SMEs and communications agencies.
• Possibility of becoming an internal communications consultant or setting up your own consultancy.
• Transition to roles in global communications, public relations or marketing and communications.

What does an Internal Communications Officer earn?

The salary of an Internal Communications Officer varies according to experience, the size of the company and the sector of activity:

• Beginner: Gross annual salary (approx.): €25,000 - €35,000
• 2-5 years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €35,000 - €45,000
• 5+ years' experience: Gross annual salary (approx.): €45,000 and more (with possible bonuses)

What does an Internal Communications Officer do?

A variety of employers:

Internal Communication Officers can work in a variety of organisations, including:

• Large companies and international groups.
• SMEs and start-ups.
• Communications agencies and consultancies.
• Non-profit organisations and associations.

Main areas of expertise:

An Internal Communications Officer works in several sectors, including:

• Technology: Communications for tech companies and start-ups.
• Health: Internal communications management for pharmaceutical companies.
• Finance: Communication within banks and financial institutions.
• Retail: Internal communications strategies for retail companies.

In summary

The job of Internal Communications Officer is crucial to maintaining good communication and a harmonious working environment within companies. As the guarantor of the company's image in the eyes of its employees, they play a central role in the organisation's communication strategy . This job offers a wide range of career opportunities and requires a variety of skills in communication, project management and creativity.