How Jackson Upskills The Entire Organization Through Business Fluency
There are many nuances to the business strategy and organizational functions within Jackson National Life Insurance Company, a retirement services provider and one of the largest retail annuity companies in the United States. To help associates better connect to Jackson’s purpose, the internal comms team launched a program that unpacks how the company works through virtual Teaching Sessions. They started with their own team.
“We started the sessions for our team shortly after reorganizing our department,” said Erin Mercer, Jackson’s internal communications director. “Our team included a mix of people who were new to the industry, and others who were entering new roles from different parts of the business. We are a part of a highly regulated and complex industry and to be effective communicators, it’s important for our team to understand how their positions fit into the broader picture of our organization’s goals and projects.”
Teaching Sessions for the internal communications team explore topics such as product fundamentals and ways the organization makes money. They also include segments on how different departments work together and how each role fits into the corporate strategy. This helps orient the team on what to consider in helping other departments frame important stories for employees.
From CommPRO:
The article discusses the innovative internal communication strategies implemented by Jackson National Life Insurance Company to enhance business understanding and connect its employees more closely to the company's goals. The focus is on a series of virtual Teaching Sessions designed to deepen employees' knowledge about the organizational functions and strategies. Starting within the internal communications team, these sessions have proven effective in clarifying the roles and contributions of different departments, thereby fostering a more informed and engaged workforce.
Communicators should pay particular attention to this article for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a clear example of how structured educational programs can align team members with corporate strategy, which is crucial in complex industries. Secondly, the initiative's expansion across the organization showcases a scalable model for improving internal communications and operational transparency. Lastly, the article highlights the role of strategic content planning and storytelling in bridging knowledge gaps, a vital skill for communicators aiming to enhance engagement and clarity in their messaging.
Overall, this case study serves as a compelling blueprint for communicators looking to foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within their organizations.