Organizational communication can flow in many different directions and can take on various ways of being communicated through formal or informal channels. To illustrate this further, Chapter One of your textbook discusses formal and informal channels of communication. Provide an example of formal communication and an example of informal communication.
In our text it states “Formal patterns of organizational communication follow the power hierarchy within organizations, whereas informal patterns of organizational communication do not necessarily follow along power hierarchy lines” (Kreps, 2011 p. 1.5). Larger corporate organizations usually rely on formal communication networks whereas smaller organizations use informal communication chains. One example of formal communication is when an organization pushes information down such as new rules concerning leave policies or internet use. An example of informal communications would be when a manager gives his secretary advance notice that a new position or training opportunity will be available soon to help her advance.
Which type of communication do your prefer in a work environment? Why? I prefer the informal communication type in my work environment. In the formal type, information and orders are often pushed down from the higher ups but is seldom adequately explained. In some cases conflicting information is given from different managers who have not talked to each other before sending orders. I believe that managers who employ the informal communication tactic. Employees feel more invested in an organization if they feel that they are a part of the process rather than have issues dictated to them. Kreps, G., L., (2011). Communications in Organizations. San Diego: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Retrieved from