Formal and informal communication, grapevine communication, Gang Plank, business communication mba

Summary

This video discusses the different types of communication within an organization, emphasizing both formal and informal channels. It explains formal communication in work settings, such as hierarchical reporting and official notices, along with its various types, including vertical, horizontal, and diagonal communication. The video also covers informal communication, which occurs between colleagues in casual settings, such as gossip or general conversations. The content illustrates the importance of proper communication channels and how information flows within organizations, ensuring clarity, trust, and adherence to regulations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Communication can be divided into verbal and non-verbal channels, which include oral and written forms.
• 😀 Communication can also be categorized as formal or informal, based on context and the people involved.
• 😀 Formal communication typically occurs in workplace settings, such as between employees, managers, and top-level executives.
• 😀 In formal communication, a proper organizational channel must be followed for issues like salary hikes or project discussions.
• 😀 Informal communication, on the other hand, does not follow official channels and often includes personal conversations among colleagues.
• 😀 Vertical communication refers to the flow of information from lower to higher levels or vice versa, such as from an employee to a manager.
• 😀 Horizontal or lateral communication happens between people at the same organizational level, like managers from different departments collaborating.
• 😀 Diagonal communication happens when an employee from one department communicates with a manager from another department.
• 😀 Gossip channels are an informal communication type where information spreads through personal networks, often without a defined pattern.
• 😀 Information transfer in informal communication can happen randomly or through a selected cluster of people, depending on the context.

Q & A

What are the two main types of communication mentioned in the script?

The two main types of communication mentioned are formal and informal communication.

What is formal communication, and how is it typically used?

Formal communication refers to structured and professional interactions that follow specific rules and channels. It is typically used in organizational settings, such as workplaces and educational institutions, where clear protocols are followed, such as in meetings, memos, or official reports.

What are the different types of formal communication?

The different types of formal communication include vertical, horizontal, and diagonal communication. Vertical communication occurs between different levels of hierarchy, horizontal communication happens between peers at the same level, and diagonal communication occurs between different departments or levels.

What is the importance of following a proper communication channel in formal settings?

Following the proper communication channel ensures that information is passed correctly and efficiently within an organization. It prevents misunderstandings, maintains professionalism, and adheres to organizational policies and regulations.

Can informal communication be reliable? Why or why not?

Informal communication can be unreliable because it often lacks a formal structure and can lead to the spread of rumors or incorrect information. For example, if a student hears about exam dates through a friend rather than an official notice, the information might be incorrect.

What is the role of gossip in informal communication?

Gossip in informal communication refers to the casual exchange of information, often without proper verification. It can spread quickly among groups but is usually unreliable and can lead to misinformation.

How does vertical communication differ from horizontal communication?

Vertical communication occurs between different levels of an organization's hierarchy, such as from a manager to an employee or vice versa. Horizontal communication happens between individuals at the same level within an organization, such as between two department managers.

What is diagonal communication, and when is it used?

Diagonal communication occurs when individuals at different hierarchical levels and from different departments communicate with each other. It is used when employees from various departments need to collaborate on specific projects or share necessary information.

What is meant by 'grapevine' in the context of informal communication?

The 'grapevine' refers to the informal network of communication in which information spreads rapidly among individuals, often without official channels or accuracy. It is typically casual and can involve rumors or personal stories.

How does formal communication differ from informal communication in terms of their speed of information dissemination?

Formal communication tends to be slower due to the structured channels and necessary approvals. In contrast, informal communication is much faster because it bypasses formalities and spreads through casual interactions.