In times of change, crisis or uncertainty, people need support, clarity and connection. This is especially true within organizations. Whether you’re announcing a major restructuring, shaping hybrid work policies or simply want to communicate better with your team – the HAVEN approach offers five powerful guidelines.
What is HAVEN?
HAVEN is an acronym that helps you deliver difficult messages in a human, empathetic and connecting way:
| Letter | Meaning | Example in communication |
|---|---|---|
| H = Hear the emotion | Acknowledge and name the concerns or questions people may have. | “We understand this news may cause some uncertainty.” |
| A = Answer what you do know | Be transparent about what’s already decided and what is still being discussed. | “We know the move is scheduled for Q1, but the exact layout is still being finalized.” |
| V = Validate and connect | Let people know they’re not alone. | “We’re going through this together and will continue the dialogue.” |
| E = Extend the first step | Offer something small and tangible that people can act on. | “You can already submit your preference for a new workspace starting today.” |
| N = Nurture dialogue | Make room for questions, ideas and open conversation. | “Let us know what’s on your mind via the feedback form or join us at the lunch session.” |
Applying HAVEN to your intranet
An intranet like Involv is the perfect place where internal communication comes together – from news updates and Q&As to HR policies and team dialogue. Here’s how to integrate HAVEN into your content strategy:
1. Structure news posts using HAVEN
Use HAVEN as a checklist for every internal communication:
-
Start by acknowledging emotions (H)
-
Be clear about facts and uncertainties (A)
-
Use warm, connecting language (V)
-
End with a clear call-to-action (E)
-
Always include a channel for feedback (N)
💡 Tip: Create an internal content template with HAVEN as a guide for HR or communication professionals.
2. Add empathy to your Q&A and FAQ sections
FAQs often focus purely on information. With HAVEN, you make them more human:
-
Add small empathetic phrases (H)
-
Provide direction, even when all details aren’t final yet (A)
-
Offer contact persons or options (E, N)
3. Stimulate dialogue & engagement
-
Include a standard line like “Questions? Share them here.” below each post (N)
-
Use pulse surveys or team polls to measure engagement
-
Add a widget like “What’s on people’s minds?” on the intranet homepage
4. Use HAVEN in video format
Encourage leaders to apply HAVEN in short video updates:
-
1-minute videos where they mention what’s going on, what’s known and the next step
-
Real faces soften tough messages and build trust
Why HAVEN works
HAVEN isn’t just a “soft skill”, it’s a strategic communication tool that helps build:
-
Greater trust in leadership
-
Less resistance during change
-
Stronger engagement via your intranet
In a digital workplace where people are often only connected via screens, HAVEN helps create emotional closeness and psychological safety.
Conclusion
HAVEN isn’t a temporary tool – it’s a mindset and a way of communicating. By embedding this model into your intranet, you boost your organization’s emotional intelligence and communication culture.
Want to explore how your organization can strengthen internal communication? Let’s talk – we’re happy to think along with you.