Which of the following would be an example of a theme in communication?

Choosing the promotion of a contribution plan by giving away umbrellas as an example of a theme in communication highlights the use of a tangible incentive to reinforce a broader message or theme related to employee benefits. In this case, using umbrellas symbolizes protection and security, aligning with the concept of a contribution plan designed to safeguard an employee's financial future.

This approach demonstrates how a communication strategy can use creative elements—like branded giveaways— to engage employees and reinforce the value of participating in the contribution plan. The theme here focuses on enhancing understanding and encouraging participation through memorable and relatable promotional tactics that resonate with employees.

The other options focus on specific methods or actions rather than overarching themes in communication. For instance, creating engagement through email newsletters addresses a communication method rather than a theme. Similarly, developing criteria for employee recognition or revising the internal policy manual are functional tasks without the thematic element that binds them together under a cohesive message, making them less representative of a strategic communication theme.