From the Comms Cupboard

From the Comms Cupboard draws to a close after 40 episodes. John + Shaun discuss why they started the podcast in the first place. It's been a strange year, with multiple lockdowns affecting how we work, where we work and what we work on. Some people started a podcast about communication. What have we learned about ourselves during the Coronavirus, and what will happen to the fish if no one eats it? Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

A new report looks at trends in employee engagement and internal communications. John + Shaun discuss some of the bullet points and statistics. There are some positives and downsides to the findings, with "going digital" a key area under the microscope. Are we still obsessed with meetings? Is the IT department still deciding what tools we use? And how come no one's making a chocolate bar called Conduit? (Probably because it sounds wrong.) Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

Managers are often thrust into positions they're unsuited for. Whose job is it to help them handle communication better: the comms department, HR or the boss? John + Shaun navigate the different scenarios where one department may be better than another in making life easier for a typical manager. Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

Performance appraisals will look different this year because of Covid-19. But how so? And are communications clear enough about what they might look like? John + Shaun discuss comms clarity around objectives taking into account a stressful year for some and a good year for others. What motivates us? Are ratings fair? And how do John + Shaun rate the past year as podcast hosts? Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

Humans seem to love hierarchy, but red tape and bureaucracy can lead to poor communication and lack of respect for creativity. John + Shaun cite the Handforth Parish Council viral video as an example of poor communication, and of status, titles and officious behaviour. It's good for a giggle, but corporate culture is something we may need to check if we want individual creativity to flourish. Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

Professional comms teams aren't the only ones with the ability to communicate well. John and Shaun talk about what makes an effective business. It turns out communication is something we can all improve, especially if we're members of different teams and departments, or we're ducks and moorhens. (Take a listen to see what we mean.) Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

Do we rely too much on leaders to guide us through a crisis, or can we all use the power of communication? John and Shaun discuss the particulars while out for a walk. Many of us have the common sense to make our own decisions, but we blame managers for what transpires. What can good communication do to help others get through crises? Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

On Time to Talk Day, John and Shaun discuss mental health at work, supporting the campaign 'the power of small'. Statistics show 2020 was a tough year for employee well-being, so what will the after effects look like? What role does leadership play in how flexible our workplaces become, and what becomes of the puppy at the job interview? (All will be revealed.) Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

The pandemic brought with it short-term plans to counter its effects. But what about the long-term? John and Shaun have a short discussion about it. How important is it to think long-term when it comes to business decisions, and what responsibilities do we have as communications professionals to help people see beyond the present situation? Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.

A good brainstorming session is great, but do all the best ideas make it to the surface? John + Shaun discuss the possibilities. Whether you're working remotely or gathering in an office, there's more to a productive brainstorm than you think. This episode covers distractions, dominant personalities and prodigious toddlers. Produced by Shaun Weston Media. Music by CyrilNikitin, Music Standard Licence.