5 ways to become a more visible communicator

Great stories don’t magically appear on intranets or in newsletters.

Just as a journalist chases down leads and develops sources, communicators must be willing to talk to people and find out what’s going on. This can be a challenge for those of us who prefer typing over speaking, but great storytelling requires a visible presence.

Communicators often spend a good chunk of time supporting leadership visibility—coaching and guiding execs to ensure they are talking to colleagues at all levels—but we must practice what we preach. We should mill about, mingle and consistently ask questions to unearth the compelling stories that’re hiding in plain sight.

Here are five ways to be more visible at work and to start having better conversations:

Work somewhere visible.

Do you lock yourself away in a darkened office every day?

There’s nothing wrong with a bit of workplace solitude and privacy, but communicators should be in the thick of things. You never know when an interruption or impromptu chat will turn into a great story.

At the very least, working in a visible, high-traffic space will prompt conversations, which is the best way to build genuine workplace relationships.

Speak to people at their desks.