Communication

Communication

1. Informal

   • Method of communication through unofficial channels of communication, such as gossip or rumours in the workplace or discussions during social events with colleagues.  It happens casually and organically, rather than through formal and predetermined methods.  It is often called grapevine communication (as a grapevine grows freely and rapidly in all different directions if not controlled).
   • Advantages
     • Are less time consuming than official channels.  Are less costly than official methods of communication. It can improve transparency in the workplace as formal channels of communication can be restrictive.  Improves communication flows and prevent potential problems or clashes between employees. Help to create positive relations in the workplace. This can help to improve employee morale and productivity.
   • Disadvantages
     • Not always reliable nor accurate, especially if spread through hearsay and gossip.  There are no authorised or official records that can be used to substantiate the information shared through informal channels of communication. t can increase the risks associated with miscommunication and misunderstandings. It is harder to control as informal conversations have no set rules or policies to be followed.

2. Effective communication

   • Effective communication, the process of exchanging ideas, thoughts, opinions, knowledge, and data so that the message is received and understood with clarity and purpose is essential for business success.Write a definition for effective communication
   • Informal methods
     • unscheduled conversations personal conversations internet based communication
   • Formal methods
     • company websites emails letters publications presentations and speeches
   • Purpose
     • The objectives (or purposes) of communication include to inform, instruct, notify, clarify, respond, receive feedback, and  review.
   • General methods of communication
     • Oral/Verbal
     • Visual
     • Written
     • Electronic
     • Non verbal

3. Formal

   • Formal communication is the method of communication through official channels of communication, endorsed by the business organization.  Communication stems from the authority, accountability, and responsibility of a job.
   • Advantages
     • Are more credible and reliable than informal communication because it comes from official channels or networks.  Helps employees to know exactly what their roles and responsibilities are as well as the expectations.  Helps to create an efficient flow of information between managers and employees using clearly defined chains of command. Reduces the likelihood of people making mistakes and errors because the message comes from an official authoritative source, so it is usually easier to understand.
   • Disadvantages
     • Can be slower, especially in large organizations with tall (vertical) hierarchical structures with many levels of management (and hence long chains of command). This can cause delays to decision making in the workplace. Need for formality, confidentiality, and security means there are higher costs, such as expenditure on cybersecurity. The rigid (inflexible) communication processes can result in a lack of initiative or creative ideas from employees.

4. Barriers to communication

   • Communication styles
     • People communicate differently. Some people are chatty while others are quiet.
   • Conflicts in the workplace
   • Cultural differences and language
   • Dissatisfaction or disinterest with one's job
     • The unhappy employee often communicates ineffectively. 
   • Inability to listen to others
     • Effective listening  requires active listening: paying attention to what is being said rather than making assumptions about what the speaker intends ( which is easier  than active listening.)
   • Lack of transparency and trust
     • people tend to make assumptions, and that hinders communication.

Imagens e arquivos do mapa

• Hofstede's Six Dimensions of Organizational Culture (Incorporar)
• 10 Barriers to Effective Communication (Incorporar)