The Future of Internal Comms Is People-First — Are You In?

Katie Austin

Minutes
23 June 2025
Future of Work
AI
People First IC
It’s been a few days since the IOIC Festival, but the energy is still buzzing.

And the session led by our founders, Emma Bridger and Lee Smith, was more than just a talk. It was a spark — a people-powered push for change. And the response to our soft-launch of the People-First Internal Communication Movement genuinely blew us away.

If you were there, you’ll know what we mean.

If not — here’s your official invitation to get involved.
Why Now?

  • Internal comms is under more pressure than ever.
  • To do more with less.
  • To deliver faster.
  • To prove value, while staying human.

But the old models aren’t working anymore. AI is reshaping roles, tools and expectations at pace. Employees expect consumer-grade experiences and real connection. So the question isn’t if internal communication needs to change — it’s how.

That’s why we’ve launched People-First IC:

A movement grounded in human-centred design, employee experience, and practical tools that help IC pros not just survive — but lead.
This is your moment if you’re ready to say:

  • Work should feel human, not transactional.
  • Internal comms is about experience, not just execution.
  • I want to lead with empathy and impact.
  • I'm done firefighting and ready to design better.
  • Connection, clarity, and inclusion should be the standard - not the exception. 
What's next?

1.  Join the People-First IC Hub - Scan the QR code below to unlock tools, templates, community spaces, and exclusive content designed to support your practice.
2.  Be part of the conversation - We’re creating a space where IC, EX, HR and change professionals can share what’s working, what’s not, and co-create what comes next.
3.  Get involved in shaping the future - We’re testing a new capability model, building playbooks, running live Q&As, and preparing for the official launch of our new book — all designed to help you build future-ready IC.
4. Use the tools to start designing - You’ll find everything from strength check-ins to EX design loops inside — all built to help you work smarter and more meaningfully.

Let's be honest:

Movements don’t happen because two people write a book.
They happen when people like you show up with heart, courage, and a willingness to try something new.

So, if you felt something shift at IOIC, or if something in your gut is saying “this is it” — trust it.

The future of internal communication is already being rewritten.
Let’s make sure it puts people first.

Click here to join the People-First IC Movement 👇

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