Hello Reader,

I hope you've had a good start to the year and you're doing okay.

The start of a new year is often associated with making resolutions and new starts. But I stopped making resolutions a few years ago as I never actually felt January was a good month to start a new change. The dark, cold, wet days were not inspiring at all. And when I did make them, I gave up after a while, which in turn made me feel guilty, which wasn't helpful. I realised that starting anything new in the middle of Winter was pointless for me.

So, I decided to split the year into 90-day sprints, aligning with the four seasons we have in the UK. I now set my new goals on the first day of Spring (20 March). I’ve shared a brief overview of my planning schedule below if you’d like to know more - and I hope it inspires you to do what works for you!

Before I sign off I wanted to share a free resource from Piktochart. After I wrote on Linkedin that internal comms shouldn't be gaining qualifications in graphic design, the fab folks at Piktochart contacted me to tell me that they've developed 200+ free templates for internal comms people. I checked out the toolkit and it's fabulous. Have a look and see what you think. They've asked me to partner with them to ensure that they continue bringing value to the IC community, so if anything is missing for you, let me know and I'll feedback.

Have a great couple of weeks and I'll chat with you soon.
Advita

Can we help you?

After a vibrant but incredible 2023, I was able to take some time out during December to reflect on the year and rest. Since then, I’ve eased back into routine and we've kickstarted 2024 with some fantastic projects, including:

Working with an EDI and comms team to develop an internal communications strategy that aligns with their plan.
Leading a change programme for a global client who is keen to ensure content is as inclusive as it can be.
Conducting an inclusive communications audit for a communications team that wants to improve how they communicate with their colleagues.
Coaching a leadership team to build confidence in their communication approach so they can support an upcoming organisational change.

I can't describe how much we LOVE supporting our clients and helping them with their key challenges. I've never seen CommsRebel as a traditional agency or consultancy. My ambition has always been to be an extension of your team and be there whenever you need a helping hand. Someone in your corner, who can support, coach, guide, advise but also roll up the sleeves and get stuck in.

We're ramping things up this year, so if you want me in your corner to help with culture change, change management, employee experience, confidence training, skills review, or help with inclusive internal communication, including audits, I'm ready and waiting. Drop me an email and let's have a chat on how we can work together.

90-day planning

As I mentioned above, I split my year into 90-day seasonal sprints. Below is an overview of how I like to plan my year:

Winter (20 Dec - 20 March) is about nourishment, conserving energy, and filling up my mental health jug. Whatever energy I have is focused on client delivery.

Spring (20 March - 20 June) is about new ideas, innovation, and reinvention. By this point, my jug has been refilled, so l instigate my plans and create audacious goals.

Summer (20 June - 20 September) is about implementation, learning and fulfilment. I'm in full-on delivery mode. I often do a mid-year reset and take lessons on board from the last six months.

Autumn (20 September - 20 Dec) is about discovery, focus and planning. My deep planning takes place in autumn. I look at my goals for the months ahead, understand what I need to change, and adjust accordingly.

I use my seasonal planner to write my goals, my motivation, and my why. You can download a free copy if you would like to use it too.

Planning for IWD?

International Women's Day (IWD) is on Friday 8 March. This year’s theme is #InvestInWomen, set by the United Nations with five key actions. If you're planning comms for the day, take a look at my LinkedIn post, where I share more details on the key actions.

And, as usual, be aware of performative actions. Ensure you discuss progress and your changes to help women thrive in your organisation. If nothing has shifted and there’s no intention to make changes, then I’d consider carefully whether this is something you should be involved in. If you need any comms support or have some questions, do get in touch.

Your feedback matters

I've officially started my role as President-Elect for the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), and I'm excited to get stuck in with this year's President Rachael Clamp.

I’m determined, alongside Rachael Clamp (this year's President), to connect with as many CIPR members (and future members) as possible. It’s important that, as members, you get the most out of your membership and feel supported throughout your professional development.

My ambition is to ensure we create an environment where everyone thrives. I want friction-free learning and Chartership to be as accessible as possible.

I'd love to hear from you! Feel free to say hello, and share your feedback or any questions about CIPR either via LinkedIn or email.

Curious Rebel TV

Season 2 of Curious Rebel TV is back! Join us on Friday 26 January at 11:30 am GMT, via LinkedIn or YouTube. During the 30-minute show, I chat with special guests from across different sectors about the latest news and hot topics within the comms, inclusion, culture, leadership, and change management space. You can also watch previous episodes on CommsRebel's YouTube channel.