The power of audio communication in the corporate world

Using audio content to promote brands and companies has been gaining in popularity and is therefore increasingly used to produce impactful communication. For our blog this month, we invited Craig Bowles, a voice specialist, audio book narrator and voice actor for his point of view on audio communication in business and why he believes it is increasingly important.

Effective and inclusive corporate communication is the key to success in our fast-paced working world. As a narrator of audiobooks and professional voice actor, I understand the transformative power of audio communication and here
I’ll explain why incorporating audio into both internal and external communications can significantly benefit your company and increase your businesses efficiency.

Why audio matters in corporate communication

Listening is easy to integrate into a typical hectic day-to-day, and can be used to listen to messages from colleagues, do research, review topical reports, or do analysis. It can all be absorbed in situations when we’re too busy to even look at a screen - let alone read something. Audio content boosts organisational productivity as team members are able to consume content on the go while multitasking.

Audio formats can also break down accessibility barriers, offering an inclusive communication channel for the visually impaired. By embracing audio in both internal and external communications you can ensure everyone has equal access to vital information, demonstrating a diverse and supportive workplace.

Internal podcasts and other audio communications could be an effective way to enhance employee engagement. They provide improved accessibility, as some of us have different learning styles, and can absorb information much better in an audio format.

Audio is a great way to boost your company’s marketing reach. For example, using it as an added format for a newsletter can increase subscribers and create stronger personal relationships with your clients because you are actually speaking with them.

Beyond consumers, there are also practical reasons to use human-created audio as an effective form of internal communication for purposes such as:
● Company news
● Internal reports
● Product updates
● Onboarding materials
● Training materials

Accessibility and inclusivity

While Text to Speech (TTS) tools exist, they lack the nuances of human narration. Audio formats break down barriers, making information accessible to a broader audience and showcase your commitment to creating an inclusive work environment.

In many regions, providing alternative formats for information is becoming a legal requirement. Audio communication ensures your company complies with accessibility standards and stays ahead of the game.

Audio content allows for continuous learning on the go. It allows your team to stay informed without disrupting their workflow. This flexibility is especially beneficial in dynamic workplace environments.

Key points with narration
A skilled narrator is able to highlight key points through use of tone, pacing, and emphasis, thus ensuring that crucial details are not overlooked. This helps the audience to retain essential information.

In a world where we are bombarded with information, a human narrator effortlessly guides the listener, preventing information overload. This leads to better comprehension and retention of critical details.

Staying ahead of the competition
Incorporating audio communication sets your company apart, showcasing a commitment to innovation and modern communication methods and helping you to build a distinctive brand image.

Creating memorable content: A real, human voice adds a personal touch to your communication, making it more memorable for your audience. This ability to create memorable content will give your company a competitive edge.

Human Narration vs AI
Many people have turned to AI to help them simplify and automate a variety of business functions. However this is not the best idea when it comes to voicing your content. Authenticity and real human emotion are able to build a far stronger connection. Humans can adapt their narration style based on the content and audience. They understand cultural nuances, humour, and context, ensuring a more effective and relatable communication experience.

None of this is possible for AI to replicate, making human narration far more engaging for the audience.

Integrating audio communication into your company strategy is a forward-thinking move. Not only does it meet the diverse needs of your audience but also positions your company as an innovative and inclusive leader.

Used as a strategic tool it offers a range of benefits from expanding your audience reach to enhancing internal communications. It could be the key to taking your business's communication strategy to the next level.

If you don’t have the time or set up to produce quality audio content it can be outsourced to a professional. For more information and a bespoke service, contact me.

Photo by Austin Distel in Unsplash