Briefly explain the main form of communication.

From a broader perspective, organizational communication takes three different forms such as:

(i) Internal operational communication,

(ii) External operational communization, and

(iii) Personal communication.

These three forms of organizational communication are highlighted below:

Internal Operational Communication

Communication that occurs for carrying out operations of the organization is known as internal operational communication.

Internal members of the organization such as workers, managers, the board of directors, members of trade unions etc. are the participants of internal communication. This type of organizational communication takes the form of oral and written.

Oral communication occurs through face-to-face conversation, telephone, meeting, speech etc.

Written communication is done through orders, instructions, reports, memos, letters etc. In modem time, many organizations provide intranet facility for internal electronic communication.

This enhances the speed and reduces the cost and time length of communication. Moreover, internal communication occurs in various patterns depending upon the now of information such as horizontal communication and vertical communication.

Horizontal communication occurs when information is exchanged between two people holding the same ranks and positions in the organization hierarchy.

In vertical communication, information flows between superiors and subordinates Vertical communication is mainly two types, such as downward communication and upward communication.

Downward communication occurs when superiors send instructions, orders, and advice to the subordinates. On the other side, when subordinates convey their attitudes, opinions, suggestions etc. to the superiors, it is called upward communication.

External Operational Communication

Communication with the external parties or groups is known as external operational communication. External parties include customers, suppliers, government agencies, regulatory authority, local community, Special interest group and the general public.

Without communicating with these external parties, it is not possible to achieve organizational goals.

Personal Communication

Communication that occurs for exchanging personal information, ideas and feelings rather than business related information are termed as personal communication. Not all communication that occurs in business is personal. Whenever people come in contact with each other, they engage in personal communication.

Personal communication is a crucial part of organizational communication. Although such form of communication does not deal with operational plans, it influences the attitudes of the employees regarding those operational plans. Therefore, every organization must recognize personal communication as part of its overall organizational communication.

Organizational communication is a process which involves the transmission and accurate replication of ideas ensured by feedback for the purpose of eliciting actions which will accomplish organizational goals.