Communication Directions

Introduction

As the name suggests, communication is a method to pass information from one person to another. There have to be two parties: the sender of the message and the receiver of the sent message for communication. Understanding directions of communication is essential for knowing how communication flows within an organisation.

The Direction of Business Communication 

Communication is the transfer of information, and mainly there are two broad directions of communication, formal communication and informal communication. Communication through an official channel is much preferred, whereas informal communication could create grapevine.

Communication on the basis of direction has four categories:

A- Downward Communication

Communication in any organisation mainly flows from top to bottom from the higher level to the lower level, this type of communication is a downward communication.

This communication on the basis of direction can be oral or written. Oral communication is done through the channels of information. On the other hand, written communication documents include circulars, memos, etc.

Advantages of Downward Communication

• Maintaining discipline in the organisation is much easier as the commands flow directly from the higher or top hierarchy, and employees must follow it
• As instructions and orders come from the organisation’s top officials, employees directly coordinate with their superiors, increasing efficiency
• Communication becomes effective as the higher management communicates the target to the lower level and assigns responsibilities to them

Disadvantages of Downward Communication

• The information loses its accuracy and authenticity as it moves down the line and passes from one person to another
• Feedback is slow because communication is through various levels in the company
• There are chances of under communication or over communication with lots of channels involved

B-Upward Communication

In this direction of communication, the information flows upwards. That is, the lower level passes information to the higher level. The verbal communication exchange is ubiquitous among managers and direct subordinates but it is uncommon between a down-the-line worker and a top official.

The main objective of this direction of business communication is to pass on the feedback to top officials of the organisation. It is effective for giving progress reports or problems. The top officials get some valuable suggestions and it also establishes certain harmony between the top officials and the workers.

Advantages of Upward Communication

• As the feedback is from down the line workers, it helps top officials to formulate a specific plan
• As the lower-level staff communicates their problems and gives suggestions to the higher level, it motivates them to fulfill their target
• An excellent and cordial relationship establishes between the employees and subordinates
• A favourable environment and a healthy harmony occur between the employer and the employee

Disadvantages of Upward Communication

• Many top officials don’t like instructions from their subordinates
• The employees hesitate to offer suggestions to their boss
• Employees think they should not bother about its functioning and should not give advice
• Distortion of communication is possible because managers may not like the information, not in their interest

C-Horizontal or Lateral Communication

In this communication on the basis of the direction the employees have face-to-face discussions with each other. There are periodical meetings and exchanges of frequent emails because it takes place between people of the same level. It develops proper understanding and coordination between the departments.

This communication direction creates a friendly atmosphere, reduces inter-departmental barriers, and provides quick feedback.

Advantages of Horizontal Communication

• It facilitates coordination and cooperation and reduces misunderstandings between various organisational departments
• It increases group efforts with more minor controversies, conflicts, and differences in opinions
• The information is mainly distortion-free because of both the sender and receiver exchange information directly

Disadvantages of Horizontal Communication

• This communication occurs between the people holding the same position, so it will affect the flow of information if there is any rivalry between them
• As in these directions of communication, there is a lack of authority or sanctions; it may suppress good ideas and give birth to gossip
• Without proper coordination, this communication won’t work

D-Diagonal Communication

In this direction of business communication, there is a horizontal flow of information and interaction between different departments. The flow of communication is at all levels, and there is a good flow of information. This communication includes emails, general notices, informal meetings, and formal conferences.

Advantages of Diagonal Communication

• It ends the communication barrier between different levels
• It increases work efficiency and speed
• It motivates the team and encourages them to face challenges

Disadvantages of Diagonal Communication

• There is an increase in competitiveness and time consumption, leading to inefficiency
• The misunderstanding may increase due to improper communication skills
• It may lead to internal chaos because of the absence of any set procedure

Conclusion

Directions of Communication are essential for effective communication and the organisation’s growth. It is a way through which information passes from the sender to the recipient. Effective communicators emphasise choosing the correct directions of communication so that the company functions smoothly and grow.