Report: The role of communications pros expands dramatically amid relentless global crises

Editor’s note: This article is a re-run as part of our countdown of top stories from the past year.

The communications industry experienced a transformation in stature and scope during the last 12 months, a wide-ranging new survey indicates, as the public health, economic, and social-justice crises that engulfed the country underscored the need for messaging management and strategic direction at organizations across the U.S. and around the world.

Comms pros found their role more vital than ever as they helped keep organizations focused and moving forward, according to the research. Communicators saw access to the C-suite increase throughout 2020, and forged important new alliances with peers in other departments, including HR, finance and workplace wellness.

These are among the key findings from Ragan’s third annual Communications Benchmark Report, an exclusive study from Ragan’s Communications Leadership Council. Culled from more than 750 respondents, the results reveal a range of sentiments and best-laid plans during a very dynamic time.