Basic forms of communication

Basic forms of communication: Formal or informal Written or oral Internal or external Non verbal communication: Cues, facial expressions, gestures, attitudes Less structured hence more difficult to study Verbal communication: Give us symbols that stand for thoughts Consists of words arranged in meaningful patterns English language has around 750,000 words with only 20,000 recognized and in use. Functions and forms of Organizational Communication: Internal communication External communication Internal communication: Exchange of information and ideas within an organization. Provides immediate feedback Audio/intranet channels Mailers/bulletins/newsletters Formal communication channels: Formal communication network is usually aligned with the official structure of an organization Each level becomes a link in the chain of command Each line represents a formal channel for transmission Information may travel down, up or across an organization’s formal hierarchy Disadvantages: Distortion Misunderstandings Fragmented information Informal communication channels: Informal communication network – grapevine External Communication: Links the organization with outside world of customers, suppliers, competitors, investors Can be through informal and formal contact Marketing and Public Relations