Types of Communication

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There are three way we can classify communication.

First is according to direction of communication. There are three ways a communication can happen in an organisation.

1) Downward

Downward communication refers to the flow of communication from higher to lower levels in hierarchy of communication. That means when people on higher post communicate with people on lower posts we can recognise it as downward communication. It can be assignments, message regarding a particular work, a statement of purpose for employees ‘roles in organisation or general instructions.

2) Upward

Upward communication refers to flow of information from lower to higher levels in hierarchy of an organisation. That means when people on lower level posts communicate with people from higher level posts we can recognise it as upward communication. It can be question regarding work, complaints, requests from a subordinate to a superior.

3) Horizontal

Horizontal communication refers to flow of information among same levels in or out of organisation. That means sender and receiver both should be from same levels. It can be a manager briefing another manager, a CEO negotiating a deal with another CEO, an employee relaying information to other employee. 

Second is on the formality of communication. There are two ways for that.

1) Formal

Formal communication refers to communication that follows a pre-defined chain of communication. That means formal communication happens through channels decided by an organisation. It becomes compulsory to follow these channels as communication happening outside of may not be considered legitimate.

2) Informal

Informal communication refers to communication that does not follow a pre-defined chain of communication and moves freely. That means this communication is not bound by any channels decided by an organisation. That also means that informal communication is not legitimate.

Third is based on modes of expression, which are two.

1) Written

Written communication refers to any interaction that uses written words in it. That covers any form or medium that include written words in it. Letters, applications, notices, text messages, emails, books, notes, board work, hoardings etc are written communication.

2) Oral

Oral communication refers to expression of ideas through words of mouth. That means anything spoken by us is oral communication. Conversation among friends, discussion in class, asking for way to a stranger, inquiring for railway reservation, talking on a call, shouting to someone at far distance all are oral communication.