Communication Strategy That Works

This episode was sparked by a recent chat I had with Helen Neal from HN Communications. We covered loads of ground around sustainability and transparency, but one theme really stood out to me - and that was humility in brand communication. It got me thinking: in the built environment, we’re often working on big, complex, long-term change. That makes messaging tricky because let’s face it, not everything’s sorted. And there is a lot of focus on what happens when something is complete, and little focus on progress over perfection.   So, what if we took a leaf out of the consumer brand playbook? I thought it would be interesting if we looked at how brands like Patagonia or Tony’s Chocolonely talk about progress and imperfection, and applied that to how we communicate about our own sustainability efforts? So, let’s dive in!  

I read Sustainable Marketing by Michelle Carvill a while back.  It seemed the right time to review it right after my podcast conversation with Helen Neal this month. In our discussion, Helen talked about the importance of humility, the value of “progress over perfection,” and why it’s so critical to bring sustainability experts into the conversation early. These ideas were still echoing in my mind as I reminded myself of this book, and Carvill’s insights feel like a natural extension of that conversation. Let’s dive in!  

Today, I’m joined by Helen Neal, founder of the multi-award-winning HN Communications and a leader in sustainability communications. Named Professional of the Year at the PRCA Dare Awards 2024 and invited to speak at COP16 in Riyadh, Helen is redefining how businesses integrate sustainability into their strategies. With a background spanning politics, corporate leadership, and communications, Helen built HN Communications to help companies navigate sustainability messaging with authenticity and impact. She believes that sustainability and profitability must go hand in hand—a vision that has made her a sought-after voice in the field. Whether you’re a business leader, a communicator, or just someone passionate about a greener future, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.  Also check out our myth buster! Let’s dive in!  

Welcome back to the final episode in February's productivity series.  Today, I want to share how I’ve tried to transform my workspace into a mindful environment that boosts efficiency using a couple of simple approaches. Whether you work from home, in an office, or somewhere in between, our surroundings have a massive impact on our ability to stay focused and creative.  Let’s dive into some practical ways to optimise your space!  

With the bulk of winter behind us, I find that February is the perfect time to start being proactive and setting the tone for a productive year ahead.  If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to shake off the post-holiday slump, this is it! Now is the time to reset, refocus, and build momentum that will carry you into Spring and the rest of the year.  In today’s episode, we’re diving into some of the best productivity tools and strategies of 2025 to help you work smarter, not harder, while keeping a good work-life balance. And it’s not all about AI you’ll be pleased to hear (although some of it is) Let’s dive in!  

Feb is all about bringing you some productivity hacks, and we kick off tackling overthinking, which has always been a struggle for me. If you've ever found yourself caught in an endless loop of worry, anxiety, and self-doubt like I have, then How to Stop Overthinking: The 7-Step Plan to Control and Eliminate Negative Thoughts, Declutter Your Mind and Start Thinking Positively in 5 Minutes or Less by Chase Hill (yes, it's a long title!) might just be the guide you need. This book offers a structured and actionable approach that helped me break free from my overactive mind and foster a healthier mindset.  I also have a fast processing speed, which means I am often ahead of myself and my thoughts, which is great for problem solving and strategy work, but can lead to a by-product of revisiting thoughts over and over, sounds like you?  Stay tuned for 2 more productivity-themed podcasts in Feb! Let's dive in!  

As we step firmly into 2025, the communication landscape continues to evolve at a breakneck pace. For PR and marketing professionals, staying ahead of trends while effectively connecting with audiences requires not just strategy but precision execution. In my latest podcast episode, I provide a comprehensive communication strategy for 2025, complete with actionable tips and key takeaways. Let's dive in! 

As we dive into 2025, I know how challenging it can feel to keep pace with the constant changes in communication and PR. The rapid shifts in technology, platforms, and audience expectations can sometimes feel overwhelming—believe me, I get it. That’s why I’ve put together this list of tips. They’re not a blueprint (more on that another time!) but rather a set of ideas to inspire and guide you. Before we get into it, I want to say: be kind to yourself. You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Instead, I encourage you to pick three things from this list that resonate with you most and focus on those. Small, intentional steps can lead to big changes. And if you’re looking for more strategies to stay productive, keep an eye out for my upcoming episode on Productivity in 2025. Let’s dive in!  

As a new year approaches, there’s no better time to start something fresh and exciting. 2025 is the year to take that idea you’ve been mulling over and turn it into something meaningful — something that connects, inspires, and resonates. Podcasts are a powerful way to do just that, and I created the Start and Launch Your Audio Podcast Coached Programme to guide you through every step of the process, from concept to launch. In this podcast episode, I dive deeper into my bespoke Start Your Audio Podcast Masterclass giving you all the information you need to get started.  So, let’s dive in.  

If there’s one thing I’m truly passionate about, it’s the built environment. I believe that developments aren’t just about bricks and mortar—they’re about creating spaces where people feel at home, where communities grow, and where memories are made. That’s why I love what I do. Some of you who listen may know that Placemaking Communications is my passion, and it’s all about helping developers and communities connect through meaningful, thoughtful communication. It’s not just about promoting a development; it’s about crafting a story and building a sense of identity that turns a project into a place people love. In this episode I speak about what it is, why it matters, and why you need a strategy.  So, let's dive in! 

Why Reading Business Books Matters: Kicking Off a Monthly Book Review episode In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like there’s never enough time to step back and invest in learning. But here’s the thing: staying sharp and innovative in any field, especially communications, requires fresh ideas and new perspectives. And one of the best ways to get those? Reading business books. Sure, some might argue that we can pick up tips from blogs, podcasts obviously, or even social media. But there’s something different about diving into a well-researched book. It’s like having an in-depth conversation with an expert—a chance to explore their ideas fully, understand the stories behind their strategies, and learn lessons that stick.  So I am mixing up podcast learning with a book review a ‘pook’ review? Anyway, that’s why I’ve decided to review a book on this blog once in a while. It’s a way to hold myself accountable for making time to read, but also to share the insights I discover with you. Whether you’re looking for practical tips, big-picture inspiration, or just a spark of curiosity, I hope these reviews will bring you something valuable. This month, I’m kicking things off with Jonah Berger’s "Contagious: Why Things Catch On." It’s one of the top 2024 books for anyone interested in marketing, communication, or understanding why some ideas and products take off while others don’t. So, let’s dive in and explore what makes "Contagious" such a must-read—and how it can help us all create messages that stick.

Recently I gave a talk at a communications conference with a colleague, a filmmaker, on how film can change the narrative for a topic or issue and highlight your brand in a new and unusual way- in this case, the housing agenda in the UK.  As some of you who listen regularly will know, my consulting business focuses on providing communication strategies for built environment projects and firms.  Our big area of expertise is placemaking communications and this means simply, telling the story of places where people live, in particular, new and emerging places that may not have an established identity, like an existing town or city. So today I give an overview of how film can be used as part of your communication strategy, using a case study from my work, bringing places and communities to life and changing a negative narrative into a positive one. So, let’s dive in!  

I’ve worked with a number of startups both inside and out of the built environment sector.  One thing they have in common is an infatuation with media coverage.  Don’t get me wrong this is essential for a startup, but it’s not the only tool in the toolkit.  But, public relations isn't just about media coverage—it’s about building credibility and trust. For a startup, positive profile-raising activities can boost your visibility, attract investors, increase customer confidence, and open doors for partnerships. The challenge? As a newcomer without a well-known brand, breaking through the noise requires creativity and persistence. The good news is that even on a tight budget, you can build a PR strategy that maximises your resources. Today I share 6 tips for success. Let’s dive in!  

I wanted to conclude September’s focus on Crisis Comms by focusing on In the world of Public Relations and Comms, and how overwhelming the fast-paced, high-pressure environment can often feel. From managing client expectations and navigating media relations to dealing with crisis communications, the challenges can be relentless.  This conversation was raised in my recent ‘deep dive’ with crisis expert Amanda Coleman.   For communication and PR professionals, the pressure to be constantly “on,” to think quickly, and to maintain a positive image for both themselves and their clients can take a toll on mental well-being. As someone who works remotely all the time, the resilience to deal with things sometimes gets thin. In this episode, I will unpick my conversation with Amanda in more detail and explore why mental well-being is vital in PR, the unique challenges that arise from dealing with difficult situations, and how to develop strategies for maintaining balance.   So, let’s dive in!  

I wanted to unpack in more detail a topic that I am also very passionate about in my everyday work—issues management. Having worked extensively in communications, I’ve seen firsthand how vital it is to identify and manage potential problems before they escalate into full-blown crises. It’s an area I’ve dedicated much of my focus to, helping organisations develop proactive strategies to address emerging issues and protect their reputations. In a recent conversation with Amanda Coleman, we discussed some shared experiences in crisis communication, but this is a topic I’m deeply invested in myself. I wanted to share my perspective on why effective issues management is essential for any organisation and what I’ve learned throughout my career. So, let’s dive in!  

Welcome to today's episode, where we're diving into the world of crisis communication with an expert who's been on the front lines. Amanda Coleman shares her incredible journey, starting as a journalist and transitioning into key roles in the public sector, including her time at the Environment Agency and Merseyside Police. Amanda brings valuable insights from her extensive experience, including the pivotal role she played during the 2017 Manchester Arena terrorist attack. In this conversation, Amanda emphasises how crucial crisis communication is in shaping operational responses and why organisations need clear communication plans that focus on empathy and authenticity. She also breaks down the impact of social media on crisis management and why it's essential to be ready for rapid response in today’s fast-paced world. Whether you're in communications, crisis management, or simply curious about what it takes to navigate through tough situations, this episode is packed with takeaways you won't want to miss! So, let's dive in!   

As someone who started life in Corporate Communications for a famous American credit card brand, I lived through the pain of Internal Communications as posters and internal launches through to a strategic function. Comms under Corporate Comms, but got moved to HR and back again, even 25 years ago. Reflecting on these complexities and inspired by Jenny Field’s insightful "Chaos to Calm" model, and the podcast where we spoke about this, I delve into the strategic role of internal communication and its optimal positioning within a business. So, let's dive in!    Liked Listening today?  What to do next: Get my FREE roadmap to get more strategic with communication activity in your business. Listen to more episodes, take some training, or download a resource: Find out more here. Hire my expertise Whether that’s support with a one-off comms project or an entire strategy for your business, drop me a line if you want to explore this further.  You can also work with me 1:1 as a trainer and mentor – emma@henbe.co.uk Work with me closely If you’d like to work with me to develop and implement your communication strategy through 1:1 work, podcasts, workbooks, sharing ideas, and lots of accountability and up-skilling, then email me at emma@henbe.co.uk to register your interest for you or your entire team. Leave me a voicemail on my Speakpipe page I would love to hear your feedback on this episode and thoughts on any topics I could include in future ones too.  

In the ever-evolving landscape of public relations and corporate communication, data analytics has emerged as a game-changer. In this podcast, I share five ways data can transform your communication strategies, making them more effective and impactful. So let's dive in!    Liked Listening today?  What to do next: Get my FREE roadmap to get more strategic with communication activity in your business. Listen to more episodes, take some training, or download a resource: Find out more here. Hire my expertise Whether that’s support with a one-off comms project or an entire strategy for your business, drop me a line if you want to explore this further.  You can also work with me 1:1 as a trainer and mentor – emma@henbe.co.uk Work with me closely If you’d like to work with me to develop and implement your communication strategy through 1:1 work, podcasts, workbooks, sharing ideas, and lots of accountability and up-skilling, then email me at emma@henbe.co.uk to register your interest for you or your entire team. Leave me a voicemail on my Speakpipe page I would love to hear your feedback on this episode and thoughts on any topics I could include in future ones too.

This week we reflect on a recent ‘Deep Dive with Adam Driver to unpick a bit more around what SEO is, highlight its numerous benefits for comms folk and businesses, and emphasise how it should be integrated into a broader marketing strategy for optimal results. Why? Well in today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business looking to succeed. SEO is one of the most effective tools available to achieve this. However, it is often misunderstood and misused, leading to confusion and missed opportunities. So let's dive in!    Liked Listening today?  What to do next: Get my FREE roadmap to get more strategic with communication activity in your business. Listen to more episodes, take some training, or download a resource: Find out more here. Hire my expertise Whether that’s support with a one-off comms project or an entire strategy for your business, drop me a line if you want to explore this further.  You can also work with me 1:1 as a trainer and mentor – emma@henbe.co.uk Work with me closely If you’d like to work with me to develop and implement your communication strategy through 1:1 work, podcasts, workbooks, sharing ideas, and lots of accountability and up-skilling, then email me at emma@henbe.co.uk to register your interest for you or your entire team. Leave me a voicemail on my Speakpipe page I would love to hear your feedback on this episode and thoughts on any topics I could include in future ones too.

I work with lots of Senior leaders directly, often providing guidance and expertise when there is no in-house resource to do so.  This means that I am often rating the brief as well as taking the briefing about it!  This is fine but today I wanted to spend some time outlining more about why effective briefs are so important. Creating effective briefs is a cornerstone of successful projects and solid client-agency relationships. For non-experts in marketing, such as Managing Directors or Project Managers, mastering the art of writing a detailed, clear brief can lead to more efficient workflows, better creative outputs, and ultimately, more successful campaigns.  So if you're a project manager or leader listening today and want to create more value from your partners, or you’re a consultant who wants to guide your clients better, this one is for you! So let’s dive in!   Liked Listening today?  What to do next: Get my FREE roadmap to get more strategic with communication activity in your business. Listen to more episodes, take some training, or download a resource: Find out more here. Hire my expertise Whether that’s support with a one-off comms project or an entire strategy for your business, drop me a line if you want to explore this further.  You can also work with me 1:1 as a trainer and mentor – emma@henbe.co.uk Work with me closely If you’d like to work with me to develop and implement your communication strategy through 1:1 work, podcasts, workbooks, sharing ideas, and lots of accountability and up-skilling, then email me at emma@henbe.co.uk to register your interest for you or your entire team. Leave me a voicemail on my Speakpipe page I would love to hear your feedback on this episode and thoughts on any topics I could include in future ones too.