Types of Communication Channels
In an organization, information flows forward, backward, and sideways. This information flow is referred to as communication. Communication channels refer to the way this information flows within the organization and with other organizations.
Through a modem of communication, be it face-to-face conversations or an inter-department memo, information is transmitted from a manager to a subordinate or vice versa. An important element of the communication process is the feedback mechanism between the management and employees. In this mechanism, employees inform managers that they have understood the task at hand while managers provide employees with comments and directions on employee’s work.
Types of Communication Channels
- Formal Communication Channels: A formal communication channel transmits information such as the goals, policies, and procedures of an organization. Messages in this type of communication channel follow a chain of command. This means information flows from a manager to his subordinates, and they in turn pass on the information to the next level of staff.
- Informal Communication Channels: Within a formal working environment, there always exists an informal communication network. The strict hierarchical web of communication cannot function efficiently on its own
and hence there exists a communication channel outside of this web. While this type of communication channel may disrupt the chain of command, a good manager needs to find a fine balance between the formal and informal communication channels. - Unofficial Communication Channels: Good managers will recognize the fact that sometimes communication that takes place within an organization is interpersonal. While minutes of a meeting may be a topic of discussion among employees, sports, politics, and TV shows also share the floor.
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