Preeti Shirodkar

Format of the
Discussion
Communication in an organisation

 its importance
 objectives
 types
 channels
 media and modes
 communicating effectively
Importance of
Communication
inneeds
• Work antoOrganisation
be done with and
through people
• Helps in maintaining a cordial
ambience
• Enhances efficiency
• Prevents misconceptions
Objectives of
Communication in
an Organisation
• Providing information
• Conveying orders
• Consultation/Suggestions
• Persuasion
• Morale boosting
Types of
Communication in an
Organisation
 Internal  External

Inter and intra Communication with

departmental/individ individuals outside the
ual communication organisation/other
on a (in)formal basis organisations on a
(in)formal basis that
helps in facilitating in
Channels of
Communication in an
Organisation
 Formal  Informal

 Vertical: Upward and  Grapevine

Downward  Lateral
 Horizontal
 Lateral
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 Organisation
Oral Written

 Face-to-face  Sms
 Telephone  E-mail
 Tele-conferencing  Fax
 Meetings/briefings  Letters
 Speeches (rare)  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