chapter 10 communication Flashcards
What is the basic definition of communication in OB?
Transfer of information and meaning from sender to receiver.
Why is communication important in organizations?
It is essential for coordination, task management, feedback, and performance.
What are the key steps in the communication process?
Encoding, Message Transmission, Decoding.
What is ‘noise’ in communication?
Any interference that distorts a message during encoding or decoding.
What affects communicator competence?
Skills in encoding/decoding messages accurately.
Define ‘Information Richness.’
Depth and detail in communication, crucial for complex messages.
Which channel has the highest information richness?
Face-to-face communication.
Name two common types of computer-mediated communication.
Email and videoconferencing.
What are the advantages of face-to-face communication?
Immediate feedback and inclusion of nonverbal cues.
Why is computer-mediated communication often limited in richness?
Lacks nonverbal cues, which can reduce understanding.
What is formal communication?
Official communication paths, like downward, upward, and horizontal channels.
Describe the ‘all-channel’ communication network.
Decentralized, allowing all team members to communicate freely.
Describe the ‘wheel’ network.
Centralized, with all communication going through a single leader.
What is ‘downward communication’?
Flow of information from higher to lower levels (e.g., manager to employee).
Define ‘upward communication.’
Information flowing from employees to management (e.g., feedback).
What is the ‘grapevine’ in communication?
An informal network where unofficial information circulates.
How can rumors and gossip impact an organization?
They can lead to misinformation and reduce trust.
How does communication impact job performance?
Supervisor feedback improves performance if it is constructive and credible.
How does communication affect organizational commitment?
Enhances employee involvement and sense of belonging.
What is a ‘behavioral interview’?
An interview that asks about past behaviors to predict future performance.
Define ‘situational interview.’
An interview that presents hypothetical scenarios to gauge responses.
Why are nonverbal cues important in interviews?
They reveal insights into cultural fit and interest.
What is the purpose of an ‘all-channel’ network?
Ideal for complex tasks needing broad, open communication.
When is a ‘wheel’ network most effective?
For simple tasks where centralized control is efficient.
What is communicator competence?
Ability to convey and interpret messages effectively.
Explain ‘gender differences’ in communication.
Different styles may impact interpretation and engagement.
Name a key impact of effective communication on employees.
Increased job satisfaction.
Why is adapting communication to the channel important?
Ensures message clarity and appropriateness for complexity.
What are formal network structures in organizations?
Established paths for communication, such as downward or upward channels.
What is the role of feedback in the communication process?
Provides clarity and confirms message understanding.
