Organizational Communication Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What does feedback in communication primarily help clarify for employees?

  • Desired behavior (correct)
  • Company policies
  • Workgroup dynamics
  • Market strategies

Which of the following is NOT a function of communication within an organization?

  • Emotional sharing
  • Cost-cutting (correct)
  • Information exchange
  • Management

Which function of communication helps satisfy social needs among group members?

  • Persuasion
  • Emotional sharing (correct)
  • Information exchange
  • Management

How does communication act as a management tool in organizations?

<p>Through job descriptions and company policies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes channel richness?

<p>The amount of information a channel can convey (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of communication is emphasized for its ability to provide immediate feedback?

<p>Oral communication (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common barrier to effective communication?

<p>Cultural differences (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key challenge in cross-cultural communication?

<p>Language barriers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential negative outcome of persuasion in an organizational context?

<p>Convincing employees to break the law (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which function of communication is primarily related to providing necessary information for decision making?

<p>Information exchange (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the grapevine communication in organizations?

<p>To help managers understand employee morale and concerns. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which small-group network has a high emergence of a leader?

<p>Wheel (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of downward communication?

<p>It flows from a higher level to a lower level (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In terms of accuracy, which small-group network is considered to be the most effective?

<p>Chain (B), Wheel (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an effective way to communicate in upward communication?

<p>Summarize issues in headlines with actionable items (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should a manager take when they don't know certain information that employees are seeking?

<p>Share the unknown and set a follow-up time. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of downward communication?

<p>It often lacks feedback opportunities (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which form of communication helps facilitate coordination among members at the same level?

<p>Lateral communication (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which communication method is classified as the primary means of conveying messages?

<p>Oral communication (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common problem associated with lateral communication?

<p>It can lead to dysfunctional conflicts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic speed of the All-Channel network?

<p>Fast (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies should be avoided when responding to rumors?

<p>Respond with certainty even without facts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which function of communication can lead to either positive or negative outcomes depending on its intent?

<p>Persuasion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which network is least satisfying for its members?

<p>Wheel (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might appropriate physical distance between individuals indicate?

<p>Cultural traditions and norms (B), Intentions or feelings towards each other (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which communication method is recommended for complex messages?

<p>Written communication for reliability (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when selecting a communication channel?

<p>The ambiguity of the message (A), The length of the message (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is automatic processing a concern in persuasive communication?

<p>It can make individuals susceptible to superficial influences. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which channel of communication is suggested for gauging a receiver’s receptivity?

<p>Oral communication (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding routine messages?

<p>They tend to be straightforward with minimal ambiguity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method companies use to ensure information security?

<p>Monitoring employee Internet use and email records (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which communication method should be utilized for a broad audience?

<p>Social media for engagement (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method of communication is primarily used for delivering real-time verbal interaction?

<p>Videoconferencing (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of communication does facial expressions fall under?

<p>Nonverbal Communication (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a form of written communication?

<p>Videoconferencing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can body language affect communication in a workplace setting?

<p>It conveys emotional state and engagement levels. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of effective verbal communication?

<p>It often includes variations in tone and emphasis. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which form of written communication is usually the most formal?

<p>Letters (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of nonverbal communication, what does physical distance between sender and receiver indicate?

<p>A level of comfort or discomfort in interaction. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which option best describes the role of intonations in communication?

<p>They change the meaning of spoken words. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a barrier to effective communication?

<p>Sympathetic listening (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT influence the choice of processing information?

<p>Time of day (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of understanding cultural barriers in communication?

<p>To avoid misinterpretations and solve conflicts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does controlled processing typically rely on?

<p>Facts, figures, and logic (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In cross-cultural communication, what can be a result of semantics?

<p>Words meaning different things to different people (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which approach can help overcome problems in cross-cultural communication?

<p>Proactively maintaining group identity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which communication mode is suggested to be less prone to misunderstandings?

<p>In-person meetings (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The need for cognition affects which aspect of communication?

<p>The level of detail in information processing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Communication for Management

Communication used to guide behavior in organizations, through elements like hierarchies, policies, and informal social interactions.

Communication for Emotional Sharing

Communication that allows individuals to express their feelings and build connections, creating a sense of belonging.

Communication for Feedback

Communication focused on providing feedback to individuals or teams, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement, and motivating them to achieve their goals.

Communication for Persuasion

Communication aimed at influencing others' beliefs or behaviors by presenting arguments, appealing to emotions, or using persuasive techniques.

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Communication for Information Exchange

Communication that transmits facts, ideas, and information between individuals and groups, ensuring everyone is informed and connected.

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Downward Communication

Communication flow that goes from higher management levels to lower levels, such as instructions, policies, and announcements, often forming a formal channel in an organization.

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Upward Communication

Communication flow that goes from lower levels to higher management levels, including feedback, reports, and suggestions, providing upward perspective and insights.

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Lateral Communication

Communication flow that occurs between individuals at the same organizational level, promoting collaboration, coordination, and information sharing within teams.

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Chain network

A network where information flows sequentially from one person to the next, like a chain.

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Wheel network

A network where information flows from a central person to everyone else in the group.

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All-channel network

A network where information flows freely between all members of the group.

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Grapevine

The informal network within a group or organization.

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Grapevine communication

A type of oral communication where messages are spread through informal channels. It can be beneficial for sharing information and understanding employee sentiment, but can also lead to inaccuracies and rumors.

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Persuasion

The act of influencing others to believe or act in a certain way. Can be positive or negative depending on the intention.

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Emotional Sharing

The process of sharing emotions, feelings, and personal experiences with others. This can strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging.

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Information Exchange

The process of exchanging information to aid in decision making. This involves sharing data and insights to evaluate options and make informed choices.

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Communication Process

The communication process involves a sender who encodes a message, transmits it through a channel, which is then received and decoded by the receiver, who can provide feedback.

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Oral Communication

Sending messages through spoken words, including meetings, phone calls, and video conferences.

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Written Communication

Using written words, including letters, emails, presentations, and text messages.

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Nonverbal Communication

Expressing emotions and thoughts through nonverbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice.

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Digital Communication

Using technology like email, instant messaging, webinars, and social media to communicate.

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Decoding Communication

Analyzing and understanding the intended message of someone else.

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Physical distance in communication

The distance between people in a conversation can reflect cultural norms and communicate feelings like intimacy, aggression, or disinterest.

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Channel richness

The ability of a communication channel to convey complex messages and handle multiple cues, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language.

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Choosing the right communication channel

Choosing the right communication channel depends on the message's complexity and the need for immediate feedback.

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When to use written communication

Written communication is more reliable for complex and lengthy messages, as it provides a written record and allows for careful wording.

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When to use oral communication

When the receiver's immediate reaction is important, oral communication allows for quick feedback and clarification.

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Information security in organizations

Companies may monitor employee internet use, emails, phone calls, and even use video surveillance to protect information and ensure ethical and legal compliance.

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Automatic processing

A type of processing information where people rely on shortcuts and easily accessible information, often making quick decisions based on superficial cues.

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Persuasive Communication

Persuasive communication aims to influence others' beliefs and behaviors by using various techniques like appealing to emotions, logic, or authority.

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Controlled Processing

The process of carefully considering evidence and information, relying on facts, figures, and logic. It requires effort and energy but is more resistant to manipulation.

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Filtering

A barrier to effective communication where information is deliberately withheld, changed, or distorted as it passes through different levels of the organization.

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Selective Perception

A barrier to effective communication where individuals tend to perceive and interpret information based on their own prior experiences, values, and beliefs, leading to biased understanding.

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Information Overload

A barrier to effective communication where individuals are bombarded with excessive amounts of information, leading to confusion, decreased attention, and difficulty processing.

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Emotions

A barrier to effective communication where strong emotions, either positive or negative, can cloud judgment, distort communication, and hinder effective listening and understanding.

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Language

A barrier to effective communication arising from differences in language, jargon, slang, or accents, leading to misunderstandings and difficulties interpreting meanings.

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Silence

A barrier to effective communication where silence or lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and unresolved issues.

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Communication Apprehension

A barrier to effective communication where individuals experience anxiety or fear when communicating with others, leading to reluctance to participate, express opinions, or provide feedback.

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Study Notes

Organizational Behavior - Chapter 11 Communication

  • Communication serves five major functions in a group or organization: management, feedback, emotional sharing, persuasion, and information exchange.
  • Communication manages member behavior through authority hierarchies, formal guidelines, job descriptions, and company policies, even workgroup teasing or harassing.
  • Feedback clarifies employee tasks, performance, and improvement via goal setting, progress feedback, and reward structures which motivate employees.
  • Communication is a mechanism for emotional exchange among members, revealing satisfaction and frustration, satisfying social needs.
  • Persuasion in communication can be positive, influencing corporate social responsibility, or negative, pushing for actions that break the law, impacting the organization's well-being.
  • Information exchange within organizations facilitates decision making by providing crucial data for identifying and evaluating choices.

Learning Objectives

  • Describe the functions and process of communication.
  • Contrast downward, upward, and lateral communication, including small group networks and the grapevine.
  • Contrast oral, written, and nonverbal communication.
  • Describe how channel richness affects communication channel choice.
  • Differentiate between automatic and controlled processing of persuasive messages.
  • Identify common barriers to effective communication.
  • Discuss how to overcome problems in cross-cultural communication.

Communication Process

  • The communication process involves a sender encoding a message, transmitting it through a channel, encountering potential noise, and a receiver decoding the message. Feedback is crucial.

Downward, Upward, and Lateral Communication

  • Downward communication flows from a higher level (e.g., manager) to a lower level (employee). It can include assigning goals, instructions, policies, and feedback. A challenge is its one-way nature.
  • Upward communication flows from a lower level to a higher level (e.g., employees to manager). It allows the manager to receive feedback on progress and problem issues.
  • Lateral communication happens between members on the same level or within the same workgroup. It offers coordination efficiency but can create conflicts.
  • The grapevine is an informal communication network that offers insights into organizational morale and employee concerns.

Oral, Written, and Nonverbal Communication

  • Speeches, discussions, and grapevines are examples of oral communication. The communication methods include meetings, video conferencing, and the telephone.
  • Written formats include emails, letters, instant messages, texts, social media posts, and blogs.
  • Nonverbal communication includes body language (gestures, facial expressions, and personal space), intonations, and emphasis while speaking.

Channel Richness

  • Channel richness refers to the ability of a communication channel to convey information quickly in detail.
  • Rich channels (e.g., face-to-face meetings) are ideal for complex, non-routine communication.
  • Lean channels (e.g., email) are suited for routine, simple messages.

Persuasive Communication

  • Automatic processing is fast, simple engagement and can be easily misled.
  • Controlled processing is detail-oriented and requires effort; this type of engagement proves difficult to manipulate.

Barriers to Effective Communication

  • Filtering, selective perception, information overload, emotions, language differences, silence, communication apprehension, and lying are all barriers to effective communication.

Overcoming Problems in Cross-Cultural Communication

  • Cultural barriers, such as differing interpretations of words (semantics) and connotations, tones, and conflict-resolution strategies, can arise.
  • Organizations can overcome these issues through cultural awareness training, sensitivity training, and clear communication guidelines.
  • Using high-context vs low-context communication approaches to help facilitate communication.

Implications for Managers

  • Managers should consider the communication method's impact.
  • Feedback gathering is crucial to ensure messages are understood correctly.
  • Favor face-to-face interaction for complex communication.
  • Adapt communication techniques to the audience.

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Organizational Behavior Communication - Organizational Behavior

Description

Test your knowledge on the functions and challenges of communication within organizations. This quiz covers various aspects including feedback, social needs, barriers, and the importance of channel richness. Enhance your understanding of effective communication strategies in a workplace setting.

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