Traditional HR communication can feel dry, especially when it involves policy updates, benefits explanations, or employee onboarding. Enter visual storytelling, a game-changer in making HR messages heard and remembered.
Visual storytelling adds an element of creativity to HR communication. It doesn’t just inform; it engages. When people see a story unfold through visuals, they connect with the message on a deeper level. They remember it. They talk about it. And most importantly, they act on it.
Why Visuals Matter in HR Communication
Humans are naturally drawn to stories. They help us make sense of the world, connect with others, and remember important information. Storytelling can transform mundane topics into narratives that employees can relate to. But why stop at just storytelling? By incorporating visuals, you can take your HR communication to a whole new level.
Visual storytelling leverages images, videos, infographics, and other visual elements to convey a message more effectively. Studies show that people remember visual content better than text alone.
The brain processes visuals 60,000 times faster than text, making it a powerful tool in HR communication.
Connecting Emotionally with Employees
At its core, visual storytelling taps into the emotional side of communication. Words alone can convey information, but visuals bring those words to life. They show, rather than tell, what’s important. This is especially true in HR, where the goal often involves building a positive culture and fostering employee engagement.
Consider the difference between reading a list of company values and watching a short video that shows those values in action. The video leaves a lasting impression because it combines visuals, sound, and narrative to create an emotional connection.
Employees see themselves in the story, making it easier for them to align with the company’s values.
Simplifying Complex Information
HR often deals with complex topics: benefits packages, compliance regulations, and performance management processes, to name a few.
These topics can be intimidating and borderline boring, but visual storytelling simplifies them. Instead of a lengthy email explaining the new benefits program, imagine an infographic that breaks down the information into bite-sized, easily digestible pieces.
Infographics, videos, and even simple images can transform dense information into something accessible. When employees understand the message, they are more likely to take the desired actions. Visuals make the complex simple, and in the fast-paced world of HR, that’s a win.
Types of Visual Storytelling in HR
Visual storytelling isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different scenarios call for different types of visuals. Let’s explore some of the most effective methods.
1. Infographics
Infographics are the Swiss Army knife of visual storytelling. They combine images, data, and text to tell a story concisely and engagingly.
For example, during open enrollment periods, an infographic can guide employees through their options, helping them make informed decisions quickly.
Infographics work well because they break down large amounts of information into smaller, manageable pieces. They also allow for creativity in design, making the information not just clear, but also visually appealing.
2. Videos
Videos take visual storytelling to the next level. Whether it’s a day-in-the-life video of employees or a short animated clip explaining a new policy, videos can communicate a lot in a short amount of time. They’re dynamic, engaging, and, when done right, they can go viral within the company.
HR teams use videos for onboarding, training, and even for celebrating company milestones. A well-crafted video has the power to inspire and motivate employees, making it a valuable tool in the HR communication toolbox.
3. Visuals in Presentations
Presentations don’t have to be boring. By incorporating visuals, you can turn a standard slide deck into a compelling story. Think of using images that resonate with your message, charts that visualize data, and even short clips that add context.
When you add visual elements to a presentation, you keep your audience engaged. They follow along, not because they have to, but because they want to see what comes next. And when the presentation ends, they leave with a clear understanding of the key takeaways.
4. Social Media Graphics
HR communication isn’t confined to the office anymore. Social media has become a vital channel for reaching employees, especially in larger organizations. Social media graphics, whether for LinkedIn, an internal platform, or even Facebook, can keep employees informed and engaged.
Short, visually appealing posts can announce new initiatives, celebrate employee achievements, or highlight important company updates. These graphics ensure that the message doesn’t get lost in the noise of the digital world.
Implementing Visual Storytelling in HR
Now that we’ve covered the types of visual storytelling, the next step involves implementing them effectively. This doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your entire HR communication strategy overnight. Start small, experiment, and see what resonates with your audience.
1. Start with a Plan
Before jumping into visual storytelling, take a step back and plan. What message do you want to convey? Who is your audience? What’s the best way to reach them? These questions will guide your approach and ensure that your visuals align with your communication goals.
Planning also involves selecting the right tools. Whether it’s design software for infographics, video editing tools, or simple graphic design platforms, make sure you have the resources to create high-quality visuals.
For those looking to enhance their drawing skills, BioWars offers an excellent resource with “how to draw” video tutorials and instructions that can help bring your visual storytelling to life.
2. Keep It Consistent
Consistency is key in any communication strategy. This holds true for visual storytelling as well. Ensure that your visuals align with your brand’s style and tone. This consistency helps build trust and recognition among employees. They’ll know, at a glance, that the message comes from the HR team.
Consistency also applies to the frequency of your visual communication. Don’t overwhelm employees with too much at once, but also don’t let long gaps occur between visual updates. Find a balance that keeps your communication steady and reliable.
3. Encourage Interaction
Visual storytelling should invite interaction. Encourage employees to share, comment, or even create their own content. This creates a sense of community and ownership over the messages being shared.
For instance, if you release a video about a new company initiative, ask employees for their feedback. Or, if you post an infographic on social media, encourage employees to share it with their own networks. Interaction turns passive viewers into active participants, making the communication process more dynamic.
4. Measure the Impact
Finally, don’t forget to measure the impact of your visual storytelling efforts. Use metrics to determine what works and what doesn’t. Are employees engaging with your content? Are they taking the desired actions after viewing your visuals?
By analyzing these metrics, you can refine your approach, ensuring that your visual storytelling continues to evolve and improve. This ongoing assessment will help you keep your communication strategy fresh and effective.
Final Thoughts
Visual storytelling transforms HR communication from mundane to memorable. It connects with employees emotionally, simplifies complex information, and encourages interaction. By implementing visual storytelling strategies, HR teams can enhance their communication efforts, making messages not just heard, but truly understood.
So, as you think about your next HR communication project, consider how you can incorporate visual storytelling. Whether it’s a video, an infographic, or a simple social media graphic, the power of visuals can make all the difference in how your message is received. And who knows? You might just find that visual storytelling becomes your favorite tool in the HR communication toolkit.
