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My role and why IOIC membership matters to me
My most recent role was Internal Communications Executive at Knight Frank in London, as part of the wider UK Internal Communications Team, from 2024 until earlier this year. During my time there I created and delivered a range of multi-channel comms campaigns to colleagues across the UK divisions. I’ve been a member of the IOIC since 2023 and am a huge fan of the Knowledge Hub – there’s so much in there from guides to podcasts to webinars that I’ve found really helpful over the last few years. I also really enjoy reading Voice magazine and seeing what other internal comms pros have been up to and what’s worked for them in their roles and organisations. The Community platform is also great for getting advice and bouncing ideas around as well.
How I fell into internal communication and why I love it
Back in 2020 I was working at a company called Estates Gazette and I was afforded a great opportunity to build the PR and communications function from scratch as part of the wider Marketing and Communications team there. At the time I had worked at the company for 12 years in a number of different roles and was looking for my next challenge. I learnt an incredible amount in a short space of time, all thanks to my manager (thank you, Michelle McCann!) who was so supportive and really encouraged me with all aspects of the role – including onboarding and working with an external PR agency, project managing the launch of an employer brand and organising and planning internal events. What I enjoy most about internal communications is being able to provide that clarity and connection that colleagues need when there’s so much going on all the time – they are always so busy with their day jobs that they don’t need more noise or messages that don’t cut through. We’re also in the unique position of being that bridge between colleagues and leadership, so we can pick up when something isn’t landing quite right.
How IOIC has helped me grow professionally
Continuing to grow my knowledge and skills is really important to me and the IOIC CPD Programme helps me to do that. I’m also enjoying reading the monthly Trends Report – it’s reassuring to get that regular guidance about what’s happening in the workplace so that as communicators we can provide real value and support to colleagues. I’ve found being part of the Member Hub invaluable too (particularly ‘Discuss and Suggest’) – many times I’ve gone on there and felt reassured to see other members giving advice or asking for support on areas that are a bit challenging or just need some brainstorming!
The project that pushed me out of my comfort zone
In 2022, my manager put me forward for a 6-week public speaking training programme, led by Ginger Leadership Communications, with the goal of giving a 10-minute TED-style talk (with no accompanying notes) in front of my colleagues during an internal town hall, on a topic of my choice. I didn’t think I’d be able to do it but the programme (particularly the programme trainer, Joanna Josefina Thomas) was amazing. I really did grow in confidence and carried it into my comms role thereafter. I’m very grateful to Michelle for putting me forward for it back then!
My advice to anyone starting out in IC
Be curious, ask lots of questions and don’t be afraid to ask for help from your fellow comms colleagues and professionals – it’s such a helpful and friendly network!
A fun fact about me
I’m half Portuguese and have enjoyed many holidays in Northern Portugal. Tras-os-Montes is a beautiful region and the food is amazing!
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