Pots and pots of freshly brewed tea and coffee. Plates of pastries, fruit and muesli. An amazing room. And an abundance of law firm Comms professionals.
A recipe for discussion.
And we did discuss quite a few things – AI and Agents, Values and Behaviours, Leaders and Controversy, Channels and Data.
Here’s a very quick run-down.
AI and Agent
There’s no doubt that AI is being usefully deployed across firms – from recording meeting and initial drafts to cutting down video content and writing or reviewing content to ensure it is in the desired ‘tone of voice’. There have been incidents along the way, whether setting questions for interviews or partners going off to do their own comms strategy. But AI without data can be misleading. How do you know what really works for you and your organisation? Also, how do people learn effectively – especially early talent into comms – “What does that development look like for young people coming in?”.
Values and Behaviours
Some interesting reflections on values. Whether they are values or principles or even an ethos. Or simply an essence. What’s important is that it is part of the conversation – and actively referred to and felt – and it is measured through frameworks, reviews and alike. Awards are a great way to recognise contribution against these values. What was also interesting is to look at what other industries do – such as hospitality where the values focus on the client experience. So much we can learn from that.
Leaders and Controversy
There can be a gut reaction within firms and for partners, that when something happens somewhere in the world, there’s a need to send out an all-firm email. There’s not. More often, the story that’s most important is how people in affected countries are being supported – and in that way, you can avoid the controversy and lean into what it means to be part of that firm. Just look how sustainability has moved out of view, yet with AI, it’s a big challenge. How should firms react to that? At the very least, keep the conversation going.
Channels and Data
Of course, so many of us are in the shackles of the Microsoft suite, but we talked about opportunities with tools such as Viva Engage and Teams. No one dared talk about Sharepoint!! More firms are using or trialling Viva – and there was discussion about whether this is a broadcast tool or one for discussion and debate. All of this led to a reinforcement of the importance of data. Without it, what do we know? Shout if you want to know more about building a dashboard of data!
The next Comms Counsel is planned for the end of November. Do get in touch to get an invite. And don’t forget to join our LinkedIn Group, the Comms Counsel.
