The #1 way to make your communications team more efficient
In communications, we never have enough resources, time, or capacity to deliver everything that is asked of us or to meet our own expectations. It means we need to be efficient in how we operate. To be efficient, we need.…
- Australian Government, Behavioural science, Blog post, Communications professional, Leadership, Team performance
2024 is the year of changing the world – one meeting at a time.
Many departments have values of ‘inclusion’ and ‘collaboration’ and ‘innovation’. And to make this happen they have meetings. And lots of them. Everyone is invited, and we all meet. And talk. And then get up, move to another room, meet…
- Australian Government, Canberra, Communications professional, Facilitation, Leadership, Team performance
Why being nice doesn’t equal great culture
I was talking to a friend last week about who is finding work particularly challenging at the moment. Everyone she works with is lovely, nice, and great to spend the day with. But the work keeps piling up, and some…
What do I bring to the Elm Communications Party?
If you know Mel, you’ll know that she’s an excellent host. She throws unforgettable gatherings, complete with mouthwatering snacks, refreshing drinks, outdoor games, and a laid-back atmosphere. She’s one of THOSE people while I struggle to assemble a plate of…
What you need to know as a public servant about the “PWC effect” on small businesses
Like everyone else, I have been watching as more and more stories have come out in recent months about the behaviour of the “Big Four” consultancies. What initially began with the PWC exposé has evolved into a broader public discussion…
Creating respect for our profession
How can communications professionals claim their “seat at the table” and demonstrate their value to an organisation.
Are we respected as communication professionals?
Last week, our intern Nikola asked me if communication professionals are respected in government. I paused before I responded because how do you tell someone just starting out in their career… no. The fact that you have just studied for…
Finding my purpose and other 2022 adventures
It is the end of another big year here at Elm. I am sure, like many of you, this year feels like it has been ten years in the making and only three months long. It took forever to finish,…
Have you started your EA communications strategy?
Updated for 2021! AGGGGHHHH not enterprise bargaining in the public service. Those of us who were part of the last bargaining round cannot believe it’s almost been three years. I know some departments have yet to finalise their agreements but…
The fight against acronyms
Primarily, I work with government clients. I have worked across the APS and there is one common problem. SMEs do it, the SES do it, and it drives me insane. It does matter if you are at DAWE, DISER, OTA,…