by Kari McLean
“Communications is by its very nature and at its core about helping and reaching people, plain and simple.” — Jocelyn Sims, member since 2012
Current role:
Internal Communications Manager, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago (FRBC)
Background:
For the last 18 years, Jocelyn has worked in communications. She started her career in trade publishing as an editor/managing editor. After receiving her master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from DePaul University, she transitioned into internal communications. While working toward her undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Illinois, she also worked for the local public television station and wrote for the student newspaper and magazine.
The big picture:
The foundation for Jocelyn’s work is to know your audience and meet them where they are. She enjoys bringing together those audience challenges and needs with the needs of the organization. Using a variety of channels to provide effective solutions and resources—whether telling compelling human interest stories to engage her audience, explaining complicated concepts, or providing critical information— helps ensure successful communications.
Challenges
Jocelyn recommends making sure you have a seat at the table in order to gain executive support and buy-in. She’s thankful to have this in her current position. Jocelyn describes ongoing measurement and metrics as another common struggle with internal communications, as well as finding new and fresh ways to reach employees in a fast-changing landscape.
Digital Recommendations
Jocelyn follows personal interest and cooking blogs such as Feministing and Smitten Kitchen. A podcast devotee, she regularly listens to Death, Sex and Money; Planet Money; This American Life; and Serial.
IABC Engagement
Jocelyn’s team has won several Silver Quill awards for FRBC internal communications features. She appreciates CW Observer and Weekly Digest and finds IABC to be a great resource for industry tips and best practices. Look for Jocelyn at IABC networking events.
When she’s not at work
Jocelyn is a dedicated runner who runs and races year-round. She and her husband love to travel, most recently touring France from Paris to Nice.