Strategic internal communication and employee issue alignment: impacts on employee relational and behavioral outcomes

Purpose This study aims to advance research on internal communication, strategic management and issues management by exploring the impact of internal communication sources. Specifically, this study examines how employees form shared perceptions of key organizational issues and how these perceptions influence their relational and behavioral outcomes. Design/methodology/approach An online survey was conducted with 996 full-time employees across various industries in the United States of America. Findings The study's findings demonstrate that formal communication channels have a positive influence on employees' perceived alignment with organizational issues. Furthermore, perceived issue alignment is positively associated with employee–organizational relationships, ultimately leading to increased employee advocacy and a decrease in turnover intention. Originality/value This study is among the first to examine the effects of internal communication sources, specifically communication from CEOs, communication departments, supervisors and peers, on employee attitudes and behaviors, including perceived organizational issue alignment, organizational identification, employee–organizational relationships, employee advocacy and turnover intention.