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Communication plays a key role in our life, as people interchange their views and thoughts by communicating. It is a core tool that plays an important role even in the growth of the organization. In an organization, there are two channels of communication - formal and informal. The main difference between the two is that formal communication is backed by predefined channels while there is no such rule for informal communication. People often confuse these two. To help you understand, we have come up with an article which will clear all your doubts between formal and informal communication. What is Formal Communication?The communication in which information flows through proper and pre-defined solutions is referred to as Formal Communication. It follows a hierarchical chain that is generally established by the organization itself. This type of communication is a must in the workplace because employees are expected to follow formal communication while performing their duties. Some general examples of formal communication are reports, commands, orders, etc. Types of Formal Communication1. VerticalIn this type of formal communication, information exchange takes place at different organizational levels. Either the communication takes place from superior authority to subordinate or vice-versa. It is also classified into two types:
2. Lateral or HorizontalThis type of communication takes place between two employees of the same level but working in different departments. For example, communication that takes place between the Sales Manager and Human Resource Manager. 3. Diagonal or CrosswiseThis type of communication takes place between employees of different departments working at different levels. For example, communication between Salesman and Manufacturing manager. Informal communication is multidimensional, it flows freely in the organization without any restraint of predefined channels or routes. It is comparatively very quick and relational. In organizations it is often called the ‘grapevine’. It is also important for the growth of a company because employees can discuss work-related issues more openly which ultimately saves the company’s time and money. Some general examples are - chats between team members, a private journal or diary, etc. Types of Informal Communication1. Single Strand ChainThe communication in which one person tells something to another who again says something to another person and the process continues. 2. Cluster ChainIn this type of informal communication, one person tells something to some of his friends then they circulate that among their close friends and the process goes on. 3. Probability ChainIn this type, one person randomly chooses some persons and transfers information to them and they also do the same later on. 4. Gossip ChainThis type of communication is very common in an organization, where a person tells something to a group of people then they also spread it further to another group of people till it gets passed to everyone. Key Differences Between Formal and Informal Communication
Wrapping UpIn this blog, we have discussed the differences between Formal and Informal Communication. We sincerely hope that this blog gives you a quick glimpse of the difference between the types of communication. Most organizations have their channel of formal communication however, informal communication will always be there and is mostly used by the employees at the operational level which is essential for the overall growth of the company. If you want to upskill your communications skills, do checkout Board Infinity’s English Communication & Soft Skills Course where you can learn at your own pace and get 1-on-1 guidance from the experts.
At Board Infinity we have authors leading in their profession sharing their insights, ideas and inspiration. Here influential thinkers, creators, makers and doers are found in one place. Subscribe to our NewsletterReceive latest industry news and updates, exclusive offers directly in your inbox. Please check your inbox and click the link to confirm your subscription. Please enter a valid email address! An error occurred, please try again later. Which communication flows from higher authority to lower authority?The correct answer is Upward communication. Upward Flow of Communication: Communication that flows to a higher level in an organization is called upward communication. It is communication that flows from a higher level to one or lower levels in the organization.
What type of communication is the flow of information from higher to lower levels in an organization's hierarchy?Downward communication is a type of communication where key messages flow from upper management down to lower-level employees.
In which communication the messages are sent from lower level of hierarchy to the upper levels?Upward Communication is the process of information flowing from the lower levels of a hierarchy to the upper levels.
What is it called when communication flows from top to bottom?Downward Flow of Communication: Communication that flows from a higher level in an organization to a lower level is a downward communication. In other words, communication from superiors to subordinates in a chain of command is a downward communication.
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