The Grapevine.

 

The informal  communication network in a group or organization is called the grapevine - as you will see, this is important source of information. A recent study shows that grapevine or word-of-mouth information from peers about company has important effects on whether job applications join an organization. 

 

The grapevine has three main characteristics. First, it is not controlled by management. Second, most employees perceive it as more believable and reliable than formal communication issued by top management. Finally, it is largely used to serve the interests of people within it.

 

Is the information that flows along the grapevine accurate? About 75 percent of it is. But what conditions foster an active grapevine? What gets the rumor mill rolling? Rumors emerge as a response to situations that are important to us, when there is ambiguity, and under conditions that arouse anxiety. The fact that work situations frequently contain these three elements explains why rumors flourish in organizations. 

 

The secrecy and competition that typically prevail in large organizations - around the appointment of new bosses, the relocation of offices, downsizing decisions, or the realignment of work assignments - encourage and sustain rumors on the grapevine. A rumor will persist either until the wants and expectations creating uncertainty are fulfilled or the anxiety has been reduced.

 

The grapevine also serves employees´ needs: Small talks creates a sense of closeness and friendship among those who share information, although research suggests it often does so at the expense of those in the “out-group”.

 

Can managers entirely eliminate rumors? No. However they can try to minimize their impact following these suggestions.

• Provide information. In the long run, the best defense against rumors is a good offense.

• Explain actions and decisions that may appear inconsistent, unfair or secretive.

• Refrain from shooting the messenger - rumors are a natural fact of organizational life, so respond to them calmly and rationally.

• Maintain open communication channels - constantly encourage employees to come to you with concerns, suggestions and ideas.