what is vertical communication

1 year ago 88
Nature

Vertical communication is a form of communication that occurs between individuals or groups of different levels of hierarchy within the same organization, such as management and employees, and vice versa. It follows a linear system where information flows from one person to the next based on their titles. Vertical communication can be both downward or upward, depending on the type of information. Downward communication occurs when information flows downward in the organizations hierarchy from superiors to subordinates. This vertical communication line is used by group leaders and managers to assign goals, provide job instructions, inform employees of policies and procedures, point out problems that need attention, and offer feedback about performance. Upward communication, on the other hand, consists of messages transmitted vertically up the line from subordinates to superiors. In this flow, employees communicate ideas, suggestions, comments, complaints, or feedback upwards to their direct superior. The goal of vertical communication is to effectively transmit information and directives between different levels of an organization, as well as promote a sense of cohesion and unity among team members. However, messages may become distorted as they filter through the layers.