Communication
Communication
What you will learn
- Choose a communication channel based on media richness and message sensitivity.
- Build a communication plan with its core elements.
- Give specific feedback using the SBI model.
- Structure an executive presentation that leads with the bottom line.
Communication in HR isn't measured by elegant wording but by impact: did the audience understand and act on the message? So good communication starts with two questions: who is the audience, and what do I want them to know or do?
Elements of a communication plan
Audience
Who is affected and who needs to know, and in what order.
Key messages
What is changing, why, and what it means for them.
Channels
Face-to-face, email, portal, town hall.
Timing
Usually managers before employees.
Feedback
How we know the message was understood.
Rich channel vs. lean channel
| Rich channel (face-to-face) | Lean channel (memo, email) | |
|---|---|---|
| Suits | Complex and emotionally sensitive messages | Routine, clear information |
| Conveys | Tone and body language, allowing immediate questions | Text only, without immediate interaction |
The SBI feedback model
| Situation | When and where: in Tuesday's client meeting. |
|---|---|
| Behavior | Exactly what the person did: observable behavior, not a judgment of character. |
| Impact | The effect of that behavior on the team, client, or results. |
BLUF with executives
Bottom Line Up Front: start with the recommendation and its business impact, then the key evidence, and leave detailed methodology for questions.
Quick check
Answer in your head first, then reveal.
Whom do you brief first when announcing a policy change?Reveal the answer
Managers, so they can answer their teams' questions.
What channel best suits delivering sensitive news to an employee?Reveal the answer
A face-to-face meeting.
Why does SBI avoid judging character?Reveal the answer
Because describing specific behavior reduces defensiveness and clarifies what to change.
Sign in to track your progress on this topic.
Your next step
Read the lesson, then mark it complete
Sources
Used to verify the facts. The writing is original to Passuit.