Directions of Communication

Directions of Communication

The Formal Communication Network:

•          Superiors to subordinates (downward communication)

•           From subordinates to superiors (upward communication)

•          Among people at the same level on the organizational chart (horizontal communication).

•         Among people in different departments within the organization (cross-channel communication)

Informal Communication Network:

The informal communication network (grapevine) transmits information through

non-official channels within the organization. Employees often say that the grapevine is

their most frequent source of information on company plans and performance.

The common characteristics of grapevine:

•         Most of the information passed along the grapevine is business related, and most of it is accurate.

•         The grapevine is pervasive. It exists at all levels in the organization.

•         Information moves rapidly along the grapevine.

•         The grapevine is most active when change is taking place.

•         The grapevine is a normal, often vital, part of every organization.

•         For an organization to be successful, communications must flow freely through formal and informal channels.

•         The free flow of information within the organization not only stops rumors; it’s simply good business.

Barriers to Communication:

•         Verbal barriers – These are related to what you write or say. For example:

•         Inadequate knowledge or vocabulary

•         Differences in interpretation

•         Inappropriate use of expressions

•         Over-abstraction and ambiguity

•         Polarization

Nonverbal Barriers:

These are related to how you act which include:

•         Inappropriate or conflicting signals

•         Differences in perception

•         Inappropriate emotions

•         Distractions

It is generally more effective to depend on logic instead of emotions when communicating.

Communicating in Teams

•         Problem-solving

•         Task forces

•         Committees

Overview of Teams

Advantages

•         Increased information

•          Diversity of views

•          Support for solutions

•          Improved performance

Disadvantages

•         Time issues

•          Groupthink

•          Hidden agendas

•          High costs

Effective Teams

•         Have a clear objective

•         Share a sense of purpose

•         Communicate openly and honestly

•         Reach decisions by consensus

•         Think in creative ways

•         Know how to resolve conflict

Ineffective Teams

•         Communication issues, suspicion, and lack of trust

–        Waste time and money

–        Generate low-quality work

–        Breed frustration