Direction Of Communication.

 

Downward Communication

Communication that flows from one level of a group or organization to a lower level is downward communication. It is used by a group leaders and managers communicating with employees to assign goals, provide job instructions, explain policies and procedures or offer feedback. 

 

When engaging in downward communication, managers must explain the reasons why the decision was made. One study found that employees were twice as likely to be committed to changes when the reasons behind them were fully explained.

 

Another problem in downward communication is its one-way nature, generally, managers inform employees but rarely solicit their advice or opinions. Many employees say that their boss rarely or never asks for advice.

 

Upward Communication

Upward communication flows to a higher level in the group or organization. It is used to provide feedback to higher-ups, inform them of progress toward goals, and relay current problems. Upward communication keeps managers aware of how employees feel about their jobs, co-workers or organization in general. Given that most managers´ job responsibilities have expanded, upward communication is increasingly difficult because managers are overwhelmed and easily distracted.

 

Lateral Communication

When communication takes place among members of the same work group, members of work groups at the same level, managers at the same level, or any other horizontally equivalent workers, we describe it as lateral communication.

 

Such horizontal communication saves time and facilitates coordination.The reason is that strictly adhering to the formal vertical structure for all communications can be inefficient, lateral communication occurring with management's knowledge and support can be beneficial.