Internal communication can make or break a workplace. When done right, it keeps employees informed, engaged, and connected. When done wrong? Important updates get lost, engagement plummets, and collaboration becomes a struggle.

In the Internal Communications Strategies with M365: How to Maximize SharePoint, Teams, Viva & Copilot Virtual Certificate Series, we explored how Microsoft’s tools can transform the way teams communicate. Here are 10 key takeaways to help you level up your internal comms strategy:

1. Tech Adoption Isn’t Just About New Tools—It’s About Sustainability

Rolling out new platforms like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or Viva Engage is only the beginning. The real challenge? Getting people to actually use them. Organizations that succeed focus on long-term adoption—making tools part of everyday workflows rather than just another app employees have to open.

2. Collaboration is Everything

Communication isn’t just about sending emails or posting updates. It’s about real conversations that help employees stay engaged and connected. Microsoft Teams, Viva Engage, and Outlook make it easier for teams to share knowledge, brainstorm ideas, and build a culture of collaboration.

3. AI is Changing the Game

AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s fundamentally reshaping how we work. Tools like Azure OpenAI, Copilot Studio, and Gen AI as a Service help automate repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and even personalize communication so employees get the right info at the right time.

4. Microsoft 365 Copilot = Productivity Boost

Imagine having an AI assistant that helps you write emails, summarize reports, and manage projects. That’s what Microsoft 365 Copilot does. It taps into Microsoft Graph to deliver smart, personalized responses—helping employees work faster and more efficiently.

5. Viva Engage is More Than Just a Social Tool

If you thought Viva Engage (formerly Yammer) was just another internal social network, think again. Companies like Burns & Mac have used it to build vibrant employee communities, support ERGs, and create business-focused spaces for collaboration. The result? A more connected and engaged workforce.

6. A Clear Strategy is a Must for Success

Want people to actually use new communication tools? Have a plan. That means setting clear goals, getting leadership buy-in, and designating a point person to keep things running smoothly. Without a strategy, even the best tools won’t get much traction.

7. Asynchronous Communication is the Future

Not everyone works on the same schedule. The shift towards asynchronous communication means employees can contribute at their own pace—whether that’s through Teams chat, SharePoint updates, or AI-powered notifications. This boosts productivity and reduces the pressure of being “always on.”

8. Multi-Channel Communication = Reaching People Where They Are

Different employees prefer different ways of getting updates. Some rely on Teams chats, others check SharePoint, and some still live in email. The best internal comms teams use multiple channels to ensure important messages don’t get missed.

9. Security & Data Privacy Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought

More digital communication means more data to protect. Organizations need to balance ease of collaboration with strong security policies to keep sensitive information safe—especially when using AI-powered tools.

10. The Best Internal Comms Strategies Evolve Over Time

Internal communication isn’t a “set it and forget it” thing. The most successful teams regularly gather feedback, analyze engagement data, and tweak their approach to keep things fresh and effective. What worked last year might not work today—so keep experimenting!

The Bottom Line? Communication Should Feel Effortless

Microsoft 365 gives us powerful tools to keep employees informed, engaged, and connected. But technology alone isn’t enough—it’s how you use it that makes the difference.

Check out our upcoming events here: https://www.aliconferences.com/events-list/

Are you leveraging Microsoft Copilot, Teams, SharePoint, or Viva in your internal comms strategy? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear what’s working for you! 👇