Member Spotlight: Aasim Hashim

Internal Communications and Engagement Specialist, Real Matters Inc.

Internal communications was an unexpected career move for Aasim Hashim. After completing a bachelor’s degree and a public relations certificate, he sought experience in a number of different communication roles, from sports and entertainment to digital marketing. Falling into the world of real estate and development, Aasim now leads an internal communication strategy at a technology company to keep its employees as engaged and informed as possible.

With most of the company working from home and spread out geographically, Aasim works with internal partners, stakeholders and executives to help keep their teams engaged and cultivate a positive employee experience. This means connecting online, building an intranet and using Microsoft Teams, keeping employees updated about virtual town halls, events, wellness activities and more. “At its core, internal communications is about keeping employees informed,” said Aasim. “But as a communicator, you ask: how do you make employees care?”

The decision to join IABC/Toronto has also brought unexpected opportunities. A member for more than a year, Aasim joined to network and access online resources. Resources, like IABC International’s “The Lab” message board, gave him a sense of how other organizations were conducting internal communications tactics and best practices. “It helped me become a better communicator and a subject matter expert within my organization,” said Aasim. Volunteer experiences supporting IABC/Toronto’s social media channels have also helped him develop an entirely new skill set beyond his day-to-day job.

For now, Aasim continues to approach his career with an open mind and an eye to the future. Knowing there are many different types of roles and fields for communicators, it never hurts to keep options open.

Aasim Hashim graduated with a degree in sociology and communication from Carleton University and a post-graduate certificate in public relations – corporate communications from Seneca College.