From Back Office to Business Partner: Why IT Needs a Social Engagement Strategy

Information Technology is no longer just about fixing problems—it's about driving innovation and creating business value. Yet, many IT departments struggle to communicate this strategic role. The solution? A robust social engagement program. By sharing insights and building connections, IT can shift from a hidden department to a visible, vital part of the organization.

A successful social engagement program goes beyond a simple memo; it builds bridges. Here's how it delivers value:

• Humanizes IT: Give your IT team a face and a voice. A blog post from a tech lead or a short video from your CIO helps break down the perception of IT as an impersonal, inaccessible department. This makes the team more approachable and builds trust.

• Showcases Strategic Value: Move beyond the "help desk" stereotype by sharing success stories. Highlight how new technologies support business goals or how a specific project improved efficiency. This proves that IT is a strategic partner, not just a cost center.

• Fosters Collaboration: Using internal platforms like SharePoint or Slack, IT can share tech tips and project updates, creating a two-way street for communication. This encourages employees to ask questions and provide feedback, breaking down silos and fostering a more collaborative environment.

• Drives Tech Adoption: Instead of a generic email, share a video tutorial or a blog post explaining the "why" behind a new technology rollout. By highlighting the benefits, you can increase buy-in and accelerate adoption across the company.

How to Build a Strong Social Presence

To achieve these benefits, choose the right mix of platforms for your organization:

• Blogging: A departmental blog is great for sharing thought leadership. Your CIO can write about emerging tech trends, while team members can offer tips on cybersecurity or new software features.

• Video and Podcasts: These formats add a personal touch. A short video series called "Tech in 2 Minutes" or a podcast where you interview colleagues about how technology helps them succeed can be incredibly engaging.

• Internal Tools: Don't overlook the platforms you already have. Posting a weekly "Tech Tip Tuesday" on SharePoint or Slack can keep the department visible and encourage ongoing conversations.

Ultimately, a strong social engagement program transforms IT's reputation from a reactive service provider to a proactive, human-centered partner.

Partnering with Axial ARC to Bring Your Strategy to Life

Building a successful social engagement program requires more than just good intentions—it needs a strategic approach. Axial ARC helps CIOs and technology leaders bring these programs to life by acting as a strategic partner, offering tailored expertise and guidance.

We'll work with you to:

1. Develop a Strategy: We'll define a clear strategy that aligns with your business goals, from identifying your key audiences to outlining a content calendar.

2. Create Engaging Content: We help you turn complex technical information into accessible, compelling stories, whether it's a case study on an improved system or a video explaining a new feature.

3. Manage and Coach: We provide ongoing support, training your team on effective communication and establishing KPIs to measure success. We'll help you continuously refine the program to ensure it remains impactful.

By partnering with Axial ARC, you can move beyond simply understanding the importance of social engagement and actively implement a program that humanizes IT, showcases its strategic value, and fosters a more collaborative workplace.