10: Communication

Non-verbal communication

The transmission of messages by some medium other than speech or writing

Congruence

A condition in which a person’s words, thoughts, feelings, and actions all contain the same message

Effective communication

Communication whereby the right people receive the right information in a timely manner

Body language

Non-verbal communication by means of a sender’s bodily motions, facial expressions, or physical location

Enterprise social media

A private work-related social media platform that is accessible only by organizational members

Voice

The constructive expression of disagreement or concern about work unit or organizational practices

Chain of command

Lines of authority and formal reporting relationships

Mum effect

The tendency to avoid communicating unfavourable news to others

Jargon

Specialized language used by job holders or members of particular occupations or organizations

Filtering

The tendency for a message to be watered down or stopped during transmission

Suggestion systems

Programs designed to enhance upward communication by soliciting ideas for improved work operations from employees

Cultural context

The cultural information that surrounds a communication episode

Rumour

An unverified belief that is in general circulation

Grapevine

An organization’s informal communication network

Computer-mediated communication

Forms of communication that rely on digital technology to facilitate information exchange

Information richness

The potential information-carrying capacity of a communication medium

Communication

The process by which information is exchanged between a sender and a receiver

Employee survey

An anonymous questionnaire that enables employees to state their candid opinions and attitudes about an organization and its practices

Active listening

A technique for improving the accuracy of information reception by paying close attention to the sender

Employer branding

Promoting a clear and consistent image of the positive and distinctive features of an organization as an employer

360-degree feedback

Performance appraisal that uses the input of supervisors, employees, peers, and clients or customers of the appraised individual