Communication between individuals and groups which are not officially recognized. It is known as informal communication. Informal communication is also known as Grapevine. In this article, we will discuss the advantages of grapevine communication and limitations or disadvantages of grapevine communication.
Importance / Advantages of Grapevine communication or Informal Communication
Grapevine has a permanent place in the organization. It has several positive points:-
1. Serves as a Motivating Factor
It helps to develop personal relations between employees. They are motivated to work with enthusiasm. They also feel a sense of belonging to the organization.
2. Works as a Cohesive Device
Every employee in the organization is interested in the welfare of the community. They feel that they belong to one group because their arm is one. Informal information strengthens their mutual bond.
3. Speedy Transmission of Information
In grapevine communication, information flows very fast.
4. Fulfils the Psychological Need
All individuals want to discuss their job-related problems & other issues in a friendly atmosphere. Grapevine communication fulfils this need.
5. Supplements Other Channels of Communication
In formal communication, the message has to travel through many channels, which takes time. Main However, through Grapevine, the same message travels very fast.
6. Works as a Security Measure
Every employee in an organization is worried about the security of their service. He is also worried about his promotions. Grapevine’s communication supports him morally. Employees can safeguard their interests through grapevine communication if there is any talk of a reduction of employees.
7. Feedback
Through grapevine communication, the management of an organization can get the necessary feedback regarding its policies and decisions.
8. Better Human Relations
Since Grapevine cuts across official positions and hierarchical relationships, they develop healthy human relations amongst people in the organization. They gossip, which reduces their stress level. It helps in creating an accessible environment.
9. Avenue of Expression
During periods of uncertainty, people can express their fears & apprehensions more freely through the Grapevine.
10. Helps them in Decision Making
Information communication helps management and employees make decisions.
Disadvantages of Grapevine Communication
The Grapevine has limitations. Certain dangers are implied in the use of informal communication. These are given below:
1. Incomplete Information
There are occasions when the Grapevine does not carry complete information. Information relating to the dismissal of an employee is disseminated throughout the organization very quickly. But why dismissal took place will usually remain uncommunicated.
2. It is not Reliable
Because the information can be only gossip.
3. Lack of Responsibility
No person can be held responsible if something wrong happens due to grapevine communication.
4. It can Cause Financial Loss
Grapevine communication can cause a financial loss by way of harming productivity. Employees may spend more time on grapevine communication. They may be less sincere. As a result, productivity suffers & Hill results in financial loss.
5. Distort Reality
Grapevine may present the information in an altogether different colour. E.g. 90% of the information may be correct, but 10% of the information which sums up the central point of the information may need to be more accurate or based on facts.