August 13, 2007

Get a seat at the table by growing your business acumen

A common complaint from internal and HR communication professionals is not getting a “seat at the table.”  One way to get invited is to make sure you’ve done your homework by understanding your company’s business. Combining business knowledge with your own skills and expertise will help you become a valued resource to business leaders who may or may not be your direct clients. You’ll also gain credibility and be a better business partner.

Four things you can do:

1. Get and stay close to line operations
   Gain direct exposure to line functions such as finance and new business development, as well as the particular revenue generating areas of your company.  For example, if you work for a bank, arrange to spend the day shadowing a teller, an account representative and a branch manager. Seeing and experiencing firsthand what these people do will deepen your understanding of the business and what it means to be on the front lines. You’ll see what information they need and the roadblocks they encounter accessing it, so you’ll be better able to provide them with them the right level of support.
   
   
2. Take classes
   Look into taking business courses at your local community college. If you majored in English or communications, chances are you never took basic accounting or an introductory course on business fundamentals. Greater familiarity with business terminology and company earnings will bolster your confidence and make a positive impression on your internal clients. Also remember to take advantage of your company’s online learning programs. Expand your professional development by enrolling in a course on Six Sigma or another critical business discipline.
   
   
3. Join a task force
   Being a team player is a highly valued behavior in any top company. Become an active part of a bigger team by joining an internal task force on an issue that is not related to communications or HR. This will enable you to bring your particular skills and perspective to the table, network internally and broaden your knowledge. It will also raise your visibility within the company and expose you to colleagues with whom you would not typically interact.
   
   
4. Attend industry conferences and trade shows
   Conferences are a great way to network, expand your horizons and keep up with industry trends. Conferences specific to internal communication and HR  provide an informal opportunity to benchmark best-in-class practices. But also try to attend industry conferences pertaining to your company’s business.  For example, if you work for a manufacturing company, attend a trade show (or participate in a web cast) that brings together experts and analysts in manufacturing.  Look for events that relate to company business priorities, i.e., sales, marketing, customer service or the latest advancements in IT, to deepen your understanding of your company’s challenges and learn what other leaders in the industry are doing.