Preeti Shirodkar

Format of the DiscussionCommunication in an organisation

its importancedilemmas objectives types channels media and modes communicating effectively

Importance of Communication in an Organisation• Work needs to be done

with and through people• Helps in maintaining a cordial ambience• Enhances efficiency• Prevents misconceptions

Dilemmas to Communication in an Organisation

Objectives of Communication in an Organisation• Providing information• Conveying orders• Consultation/Suggestions• Persuasion• Morale boosting

Types of Communication in an Organisation Internal Inter and intra

departmental/individual communication on a (in)formal basis

External Communication

with individuals outside the organisation/other organisations on a (in)formal basis that helps in facilitating in its working

Channels of Communication in an Organisation Formal

Vertical: Upward and Downward

HorizontalLateral

Informal

GrapevineLateral

Vertical Communication• Refers to communication between

bosses and subordinates• Takes two forms – upward and

downward• Often defined by stringent rules that

result in hampering the working ambience

• Most important for the effective functioning of an organisation

• It can involve skipping levels

Downward Communication• Communication that goes from the

bosses to the subordinates• Often in the form of orders• Usually defined by a high degree of

formality

Upward Communication• Communication that goes from the

subordinates to the bosses• Often highly formal• Usually accompanied by a high level

of disguise• Largely in the form of replies,

requests

Horizontal Communication• Communication (at an (in)formal

level) between people at the same level in an organisation or among organisations

• Very important for maintaining complete efficiency within an organisation

Lateral Communication• Communication across various levels• Can be either formal or informal• Often in the form of networking• Can be misused to subvert hierarchy

and gain favours

Grapevine Communication• Informal communication within an

organisation• Can take any direction• Can be in the form of either networking

or rumours• Often results in miscommunication• Can be effectively exploited by decision

makers to float ideas/gauge their strength

Media and Modes of Communication in an OrganisationOral

Face-to-face Telephone Tele-conferencing Meetings/briefings Speeches (rare) Presentations

Written

Sms E-mail Fax Letters Reports Minutes/Agenda/Notices Notes Memos Presentations

Communicating Effectively• Need to open/utilise maximum

channels• Choosing channels and modes

carefully• Adopting a flexible approach• Keeping an open mind