Survey shows communicators struggle to do more with less

Staring at your to-do list and feeling overwhelmed? You might feel better knowing you're not the only one. In fact, most communicators are facing the double-edged sword of a reduced budget and an increased workload, according to a recent survey conducted by Davis & Company.

Seventy-nine communicators participated. When asked to compare their current situation to last year:

• 62% of respondents said their budget for employee communication was reduced
• 40.3% respondents saw staff levels drop (54.5% said it remained the same)
• 75.3% respondents reported an increased workload

Why are communicators so busy? According to 62.3% of respondents, the amount of information their organizations are providing to employees has increased.

Challenges for 2009

The survey also asked respondents to share their biggest communication challenges this year. The majority were concerned with keeping employees motivated and reducing their anxiety. "We need to help employees stay focused and engaged in the midst of the tough and rapidly changing business and economic environment," said one communicator. Another said, "Providing timely information to employees who are anxious about what's happening to our business is a challenge."

As you might expect, getting by with fewer resources was also on communicators' minds. "It will be difficult producing quality, timely and global communications, given spending restrictions," said one communicator. Another commented, "Getting even the smallest maintenance items done is tough with a reduced budget."