chapter 11: communication

Functions of communication

The transference and understanding of meaning within a group or organization, serving functions like management, feedback, emotional sharing, persuasion, and information exchange.

Downward communication

Flows from one level of an organization to a lower level, and is used to assign goals, provide instructions, communicate policies, and offer feedback.

Upward communication

Flows from lower levels to higher levels in an organization, providing feedback, informing about progress, and communicating current problems.

Lateral communication

Takes place among members at the same level in an organization, facilitating coordination and saving time, but can create conflicts.

Channel richness

The degree to which a communication channel can effectively convey information, impacting the choice of which channel to use based on the complexity and nature of the message.

Automatic processing

A fast, unconscious response to persuasive messages that does not involve critical evaluation of the information presented.

Controlled processing

A deliberate, conscious effort to think critically about persuasive messages, involving deeper cognitive engagement.

Barriers to effective communication

Obstacles that impede the transfer of meaning, including filtering, selective perception, information overload, emotions, language differences, and communication apprehension.

High context cultures

Cultures that rely heavily on nonverbal and subtle situational cues in communication.

Low context cultures

Cultures that rely heavily on explicit verbal communication to convey meaning.

Knowledge management (KM)

The process of organizing and distributing an organization’s collective wisdom so the right information reaches the right people at the right time.

Grapevine

The informal communication network within an organization, used to gauge morale and identify issues of importance to employees.

Oral communication

The primary means of conveying messages through speech, including meetings, videoconferencing, and informal discussions.

Written communication

Messages conveyed through written forms such as emails, letters, and social media, providing a permanent record.

Nonverbal communication

Includes body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, and physical distance, which can convey meaning beyond words.

Politically correct communication

Language that avoids offending individuals by removing stereotypes and insensitive terms, adapting to a diverse workforce.

Cultural barriers

Challenges in communication that arise from semantics, word connotations, tone differences, and conflict resolution methods influenced by cultural backgrounds.