Communication and Governance: Why This Relationship Is More Critical Than Ever

In recent years, we have witnessed a significant shift in how organizations are perceived by their stakeholders. Once confined to top leadership and boardrooms, the concept of corporate governance has become a fundamental part of the corporate narrative, directly impacting companies’ reputations. In this context, communication plays a strategic role: it serves as the bridge between governance decisions and public perception – and vice versa.

Transparency is a cornerstone of modern corporate governance. In the past, many organizations viewed governance as a matter solely for board members and investors, with no need for broader communication. However, in today’s hyperconnected world – where information spreads rapidly and society demands greater corporate accountability – governance without communication is ineffective, and communication without governance is hollow.

Communication professionals must recognize this dynamic and act as facilitators of organizational transparency. This means translating governance concepts for different audiences, ensuring that corporate messaging is clear, consistent, and authentic. Companies that neglect this interaction face significant reputational risks, as any misalignment between discourse and practice can be amplified and quickly undermine brand credibility.

Another crucial aspect is reputation management and the impact of communication on governance. Companies without a communication strategy for their governance policies are more vulnerable to crises and public distrust. Ensuring alignment between what is promised and what is delivered is essential to avoiding perceptions of greenwashing and other practices that can erode corporate credibility.

Governance should not be merely a set of internal regulations but rather a central pillar of organizational culture and corporate narrative. This is where communicators play a strategic role in ensuring that a company’s messages align with its values and commitments. The challenge is to make this communication effective, credible, and impactful.

Companies that successfully integrate communication into governance strengthen their reputation and mitigate risks. Well-aligned corporate communication enables stakeholders to understand the company’s values and mission, reinforcing its reliability and legitimacy in the market. Additionally, it fosters engagement among employees and partners, creating a more robust and resilient organizational ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the relationship between communication and governance will only become more critical. With advancements in technology and the growing demand for transparency, companies must increasingly invest in aligning these two pillars. The challenge is clear: it is time to establish communication as an essential element of corporate governance, ensuring that organizations not only appear transparent and responsible but truly are.

This topic is explored in greater depth in the book “Comunicação e Governança: Parecer e Ser na Era da Transparência” (“Communication and Governance: Appearing and Being in the Age of Transparency”), published by Editora Aberje.

Vania Bueno