IoIC Annual Review 2025
So summarised a leading and seasoned internal communication professional during a recent conversation about the future role for our profession. It made a big impression on me because it neatly sums up how internal communicators help their organisations succeed.
Of course, this is nothing new, as connection has always been at the root of effective communication. Looking back over 2025, though, I think it is the year in which the profession – and IoIC – really articulated that connecting is more important than ever and explained how we can help organisations do it better through clarity, alignment and conversation.
The past year also brought into focus the paradox that many internal communication professionals currently face. We are needed more than ever, but at the same time we are under greater scrutiny and pressure to prove our worth. It is undoubtedly a tougher climate in which to work, characterised by reduced budgets, downsized teams, leaders under pressure and greater expectations. At the same time, though, changes in organisations also offer us huge opportunities because what they need to succeed – focus, flexibility, fluidity, agility, insight, trust and coherence – are things that we as a profession are uniquely positioned to bring about.
IoIC exists to serve our members, so our work in 2025 has concentrated on helping you thrive in these changing circumstances. We have done this in two ways. We have enabled you to deal with the challenges of the present and equipped you with the skills and approaches to make the most of the opportunities of the future.
Over the year, we crystalised four focus areas to ensure we do this:
- Improve the member experience so you can get the support you need more easily
- Be a confident voice for the power of internal communication
- Strengthen networks so members can share and collaborate better
- Provide training, education and insight that will keep practitioners sharp, responsive and relevant
This remains our platform for 2026 and beyond.
We all know that the next few years will be a challenge, but I very much believe that a strong professional organisation with a vibrant, connected and involved membership, a clear voice and wide reach across organisations will be vital to secure our profession and make sure that we can continue to do what organisations need.
Thanks to everyone who has helped us to make the great progress described in the review: the highly experienced and supportive Board members, the skilled and committed HQ team, led by the indefatigable Jennifer Sproul and, of course, you, our members.