Organizational Communication

Upward Communication

Communication of subordinates to superiors.

Open Door Policy

A method of sharing feedback openly between employees and management.

Serial Communication

A communication method where messages are passed consecutively from one person to another.

MUM Effect

A tendency to minimize unpleasant messages in communication.

Attitude Surveys

Surveys conducted to determine employee attitudes about an organization.

Focus Groups

A confidential feedback method used to gather employee opinions.

Exit Interviews

Insights gathered from departing employees regarding their experiences.

Suggestion Box

A method for employees to submit suggestions anonymously.

Complaint Box

A method for employees to submit complaints anonymously.

Third-Party Facilitators

Individuals who act as intermediaries between employees and management.

Downward Communication

Communication from superiors to subordinates.

Bulletin Boards

A method for posting informal or relatively unimportant information in public places.

Policy Manuals

Formal documents outlining an organization’s rules and procedures.

Employee Handbook

A shorter manual containing essential policies and rules for employees.

Newsletters

Publications used to communicate organizational feedback and celebrate employee success.

Intranets

Internal computer-based networks used exclusively by an organization for communication.

Business Communication

The transmission of business-related information among employees, management, and customers.

Telephone Calls

A method of communication that allows immediate voice interaction.

Video Conferences

Meetings conducted via video that include nonverbal communication.

Email Etiquette

Guidelines for professional email communication, including greetings and proofreading.

Business Meetings

Gatherings that provide clear communication but can be time-consuming.

Informal Communication

Communication among employees that is not directly related to organizational tasks.

Grapevine

An unofficial, informal communication network within an organization.

Gossip

Unsubstantiated information often about individuals, less significant than rumors.

Rumor

Significant but poorly substantiated information that can manage ambiguity and stress.

Horizontal Communication

Exchange of job-related information among peers.

Interpersonal Communication

Communication between individuals requiring a sender, message, and receiver.

Attitudinal Listening Profile

A test developed to measure individual listening styles.

Emotional Control

The ability to manage emotions to ensure clearer communication.

Bias

A tendency that shapes how we process information and can distort workplace communication.