Grapevine is an informal channel of business communication. BY: DR. RENU JAIN 2. Grapevine communication is an informal mode of communication but it plays an instrumental role in aiding the formal methods of communication in every organization. The manager in this example is likely to pass information across her three main, informal networks. Grapevine communication is communication from one person to the next. “Grapevine communication is defined as unstructured and Informal network formed on social relationship rather than organizational charts or job descriptions. It provides an alternative path of exchanging information without following the tedious path which involves formal attitude. High speed: The one important feature of the grapevine is its fast speed. Grapevine Definition in Business Communication. Just like the grapevine plant: it spreads in random ways and it goes where it can. Therefore, it is found in all organizations. Meaning Organizational grapevine Characteristics Definition Examples Types References Advantages Disadvantages Prevention Conclusion 3. Learn about the four types of grapevine communication: single strand, gossip chain, probability chain, and cluster chain network. Now, if the information is not correct or inappropriate, it can be a disaster. In times of change, recruiters, managers, and business owners need to step up their communication endeavors. Workplace Communication Methods. When the formal channels fail or do not work properly and some over-smart people spread rumors, false and irresponsible statement or half-truths in all the directions. By definition, grapevine is a form of informal communication that is usually based on rumors. It can be done through formal channels. The company grapevine is quite possibly the most efficient and powerful form of communication in any organization. The information passes rapidly in grapevine communication. The grapevine is formed by individuals and groups in an organization. This is quite similar to the vine of grapes. We also discuss the pros and cons of grapevine communication. Grapevine communication, information spreads very fast in all directions as this vine of grapes spreads. In the opinion of R.W. Authorities should ensure that the grapevine initiators hold accurate information. Managers should engage with employees quite often and include them in the decision-making process as well so that they hold fact-based information, which is true. The nature of grapevine communication can be guessed from its name. Following are examples for it: 1. Managers can identify active grapevine initiators and monitor them for the information they transmit. According to Bovee and Others, “Grapevine is an informal interpersonal channel of information not officially sanctioned by the organization. To justify our participation in spreading the rumor, we tell ourselves that part of it must be true. The grapevine is used to spread information bypassing the formal communication structure. You can’t always talk formally to others in your workspace, as it may turn monotonous to an extent. And I teach you how to participate in a smart way, so you don't get caught in the drama. Since grapevine communication is an integral part of communication system it works side by side with the formal communication. It’s a form of communication that’s bound to exist in an organization, and it is a self-proven fact that whatsoever be the effect of grapevine on the organization, management cannot do away with it. Then select it. Griffin, “The grapevine is an informal communication network that … This type of information communication goes up, sideways, down, and diagonally in an organization, and it spreads the information by using separate means from the formal channels of communication. A grapevine communication is a form of informal communication by which people communicates each other without any formal line of communication. ADVERTISEMENTS: Informal communication is also known as grapevine communication because there is no definite route of communication for sharing information. In this form of communication, information converges a long way by passing from one person to another person leaving no indication from which point it started. As per an analysis, around 80% of the rumors in grapevine communication are work-related, while 20% is associated with personal things like gossips. Advantages of grapevine communication 1. We also tend to believe the person sharing the rumor with us. Grapevine is an integral part of the communication system in an organization. So, these are a few significant disadvantages of grapevine communication. The person is confused between so many people around him and end-up passing the information randomly to someone who further transfers it randomly to others. Grapevine communication should be promoted to ensure a friendly environment in the organization. From its definition, Grapevine Communication is a form of informal communication that is usually based on rumours. She can also belong to a group of managers in her department that talk about work in informal ways. Importance, Elements & Types Explained, Horizontal Communication - Definition, Meaning, Types, Features, Written Communication - Meaning, Types, Advantages, Importance of Communication and its Benefits, Assertive Communication - Importance, Characteristics and Improvement, What is Crisis Communication? There are talkative people everywhere; you can’t deny that. What is Grapevine Communication. Grapevine communication is nothing but informal communication within an organization. Think of the lunch meetings you attend with your team. 2. How to make grapevine communication beneficial for an organization? Grapevine communication 1. Grapevine means a source of secret information. Even though the grapevine serves a useful purpose, it also poses some disadvantages for the organization where it lives. Grapevine is a form of informal communication. It flows in all directions irrespective of the hierarchy. Informal Communication can be Good and Bad I work as a human resource manager in a MNC bank. The authorities in the organization play a significant role in deciding the nature of grapevine communication. So, without delaying any further, let us get started-. Although every business-organization has its formal channels of communication, the informal channel of communication called grapevine also operates in it. People like to talk to one another; whether they talk about work or family, or anything. It is called so because it stretches throughout the organization in all directions irrespective of the authority levels. Grapevine communication spreads rapidly and likely touches each person throughout the organization. Grapevine Communication. In this form of communication, the information is transmitted to a trustworthy person who further transfers it to another trustworthy person hence forming a chain. As I mentioned above that formal communication networks are more like boss and employee relationship. Definition of Grapevine Communication, Meaning of Grapevine Communication, Types of Grapevine discussed below here-What is Grapevine Communication. Grapevine communications come handy in strengthening the relationships in an organization – both among the employees and between employees and authorities. To receive credit as the author, enter your information below. Importance and Steps, Oral Communication: Definition, Importance and Examples, Communication Cycle: Definition, Barriers and Importance. It is kind of horizontal communication, which takes place within a group, between persons of equal status. The conversation during such times revolves around your work, yet it remains unofficial and forms informal or personal relationships between you and your team members. It is called so because it stretches throughout the organization in all directions irrespective of the authority levels. (2012), grapevine communication is the informal communication network within an organization which is used to spread information bypassing the formal communication structure. Grapevine communication can be understood as an informal network of networks that the workforce utilizes for passing on the information to each other. The grapevine in many ways helps keep people honest; it can dissuade people from engaging on behavior that they don’t want others to know about. As the name suggests, in this form of communication, a person transfers exciting information to a group of people. Grapevine communication can be understood as an informal network of networks that the workforce utilizes for passing on the information to each other. As an example, a manager can belong to a group of women that go to lunch together every Friday. Managers should intervene immediately if any false information is spread and contradict it by putting facts and trustworthy information. Many have said of grapevine communication to be one of the fastest forms of communication. Grapevine is an informal communication network, which ignores formal channels of communication and spreads rumors and gossips at all levels of the business organization. Information is passed from person to person by Word of Mouth. Grapevine is an informal and unofficial means of communication. It is the natural activity of workers and denotes a basic human weakness. Information that spread in grapevine communication is often based on rumors and is mostly incomplete information. Let's stay in touch :), Your email address will not be published. I was handed over the responsibility of studying the behavior patterns of successful and mediocre employees …, Gossip at work can help Not rated yetEmployees that gossip at work are mostly wasting their time, but sometimes they are helping out. Large organisations, where there are many people who are working closely, create certain unofficial or informal communication channels. Meaning and Definition of Grapevine Communication. Grapevine communication refers to the informal method of communication that happens within the organization between superiors and employees or employers and employee while carrying out the business operations. In this form of communication, information converges a long way by passing from one person to another person leaving no indication from which point it started. A person can belong to one or more groups. Despite its disadvantages, the grapevine can serve a purpose. Grapevine communication is a form of informal communications in business that develops within an organisation. Hence there arises the need for informal, i.e., grapevine communication. Think of the lunch meetings you attend with your team. I love writing about the latest in marketing & advertising. The grapevine is used to spread information bypassing the formal communication structure. There are mainly two types of communication that occur in every organization – formal and informal communication. A vine on which grapes grow. The Grapevine is not managed communication so it can be as unreliable as the telephone game with regard to the accuracy of the message. It is used by management to spread information that either cannot be shared officially or … This article will explain the right ways of using this form of information communication for the benefit of your organization. To cool down the surge emotions, employees should have a medium to talk to their colleagues informally – grapevine is useful there. Features of Grapevine Communication As we know that the most informal communication system of an organization is grapevine communication system. Click the button and find it on your computer. The terms rumors and gossip are used sometimes interchangeably, but rumors are not quite the same as gossip. I am a serial entrepreneur & I created Marketing91 because i wanted my readers to stay ahead in this hectic business world. Grapevine communication is a form of informal business communication, which develops within an organization. September 21, 2020 By Hitesh Bhasin Tagged With: Management articles. You can wrap a word in square brackets to make it appear bold. The features of grapevine communication can be discussed both in positive and negative manners. Spontaneity: Grapevine communication is spontaneous as it is passed automatically from the top level of the organization to the bottom level without any difficulty in delivering the message. (Points : 25) Introduction: Grapevine communication is an informal form of communication in an organization. The grapevine is formed by individuals and groups in an organization. So, grapevine communication can be described as a casual and unofficial communication system within the organization. ending issues is communication within an organization. Grapevine is a form of informal communication, operates both in internal and external informal channels which can contribute to and benefit the organization. So, grapevine communication can be beneficial for the company’s productivity only if accurate information spreads in a controlled manner. Informal communication lends itself to bonding. Entering your story is easy to do. I was eighteen and working in a day camp created by …, For additional articles about communication in the workplace, you can visit Workplace Communication, Copyright © 2009 - 2014 | People Communicating | All Rights Rserved, Upload 1-4 Pictures or Graphics (optional). The Grapevine can consume enough of people’s time to make them less productive in their work. The first advantage of a grapevine communication is the fact that information through this channel is extremely fast. It does not follow any prescribed or predetermined rule and spreads any information quickly. Grapevine. Despite existence of formal channels in an organization, the informal channels tend to develop when he interacts with other people in organization. It has both advantages and some disadvantages. Since the information is mostly partial and not-backed by facts, the chances of misunderstanding are high. By definition, grapevine is a form of informal communication that is usually based on rumors. This issue is multifaceted as there are many different forms of communication each of which has its own strengths and weaknesses. It is comprised of gossip and rumor. We discount information when the source is a known gossiper. Grapevine has three main characteristics: … Grapevine communication is an informal communication pathway. Even in organizations where management is very proactive about communicating change and keeping employees informed, the grapevine helps to fill in the blanks. So, grapevine communication can be described as a casual and unofficial communication system within the organization. grapevine synonyms, grapevine pronunciation, grapevine translation, English dictionary definition of grapevine. Although the most obvious reason is that nosey people are everywhere, there is also another more credible reason. Grapevine communication definition . Grapevine communication is part of the workplace, it can't be eliminated. Grapevine communication is synonymous with rumors. Teams become more cohesive when members talk to one another outside of the project or assignment they may be working on. Every role within an organization holds a set of messages that employees should share– grapevine is helpful there. Grapevine communication is informal workplace dialogue in its purest form: it is characterized by conversations between employees and superiors that do not follow any prescribed structure or rule-based system. Grapevine communication creates a social bond where none existed. Grapevine is an informal channel of business communication. This form of communication can hurt others emotionally hence develop an adverse culture in the organization, which is not good. According to Bovee and Others, “Grapevine is an informal interpersonal channel of information not officially sanctioned by the organization. (You can preview and edit on the next page). Authorities should intervene if anything goes wrong. Grapevine definition is - grape. Grapevine is an informal channel of business communication. Disadvantages of Grapevine. The grapevine fills in a gap that is left when official information is missing, especially in chaotic or changing times. In the probability chain, the person transferring the information is not sure about whom to pass the information. Grapevine communication is an informal channel of business communication. The communication mostly occurs in open discussions; hence maintenance of secrecy is almost impossible. Entering your story is easy to do. Types of Grapevine Communication. What Is Grapevine Communication? Many have asked why such type of communication is called grapevine. This form of communication follow no formal rules; hence misunderstanding may arise quite often. Grapevine communication is undoubtedly the need for every organization to function smoothly- Day to day communication between employees and employees-authorities, which are informal fall in the same category. Grapevine communication is suitable for employee’s mental health; hence organizations promote this form of communication to boost the overall efficiency of the organization. Grapevine network is commonly criticized for its widely features. So, we came across numerous benefits of grapevine communication, but it also holds certain disadvantages that are listed below. This is a derivative of the common phrase Opens in new window “Heard it through the grapevine”.. For example, “I heard through the grapevine that Jane is the secret informant.” How can organizations avoid the communication of false information? This informal type of communication may have a significant impact on the employee experience you deliver as well as your business performance and your ability to build trust with your employees. It is called so because it stretches throughout the organization in all directions irrespective of the authority levels. This is quite similar to the vine of grapes. Grapevine Communication What is Grapevine Communication? The receiver is selected in this form of communication, and random transfer is not seen. Therefore, it is found in all organizations. One of the excellent examples is the role of a secretary – he holds specific vital messages that should be transferred informally for smooth functioning. Man as we know is a … Human Resource Planning or HRP – Objectives, Importance and Steps, Delegation | Difference between Delegation and Work Direction, 15 Tips for Leading By Example and being better leader. problem with grapevine communication within the workplace. Grapevine is that mode of communication which drags the people away from the invisible cage of protocols and rules. Since an informal communication network does not pursue any rules or formalities. And I teach you how to participate in a smart way, so you don't get caught in the drama. Unlike communication via emails, intranets and other formal communication channels in the workplace, grapevine communication is the informal way of communication that happens within organizations. When gossip is being spread through the grapevine, people's reputations, careers, and lives can get destroyed very rapidly. n. 1. Grapevine communication is based entirely on feelings and emotions; hence their importance can never be denied in any organization of any size. Just like the grapevine plant: it spreads in random ways and it goes where it can. In some ways, she is verifying the accuracy of the rumors she hears. In this form of communication, the route of sharing information is not pre-defined; hence it is often random. Grapevine Communication . It is used by management to spread information that either cannot be shared officially or … The channels can be both informal and formal. Organization’s climate matter a lot. Informal vehicle through which message flow throughout the organization. Grapevine: Grapevine refers to an informal type of organizational communication. The gist is if the information is appropriate, it will be beneficial for the organization, whereas if it turns out to be false, it can have severe negative impacts. Managers should promote this under the grapevine ecosystem. You can follow me on Facebook. We will go for that after a few moments. Have you found others ways that people use the this informal communication network?Share! Let’s look at different types of grapevine communication and then understand its importance –, Grapevine communication has been categorized into four subsets. 1 Comment Share on facebookShare on twitterShare on emailShare on pinterest_shareMore Sharing Services26 What is grapevine communication? They ought to ensure that the official information channelizes via formal means before the unofficial version starts making its rounds by using informal channels. These are the four types of grapevine communication that are witnessed within an organization. The people in the groups have something in common that links them together. How to use grapevine in a sentence. GRAPEVINE AND ITS MANAGEMENT INTRODUCTION Grapevine is an informal channel of business communication. Meaning of Grapevine Communication. It is called so because it stretches throughout the organization in all directions irrespective of … The Grapevine can foment hostility against leaders. Information received through the grapevine can either be true or false since it is mainly based on rumors. It does not follow any prescribed or predetermined rule and spreads any information quickly. Like a grapevine plant it grows fast, spreads to any direction and goes a … Grapevine communication is when you receive information informally or unofficially through informal channels or communication paths, i.e., gossip or rumor. What is the bypassing channel of communication? Paradoxically, it’s also the bane of managers and supervisors everywhere. Communication is one of the key features of an organization. Both are pieces of information that can't be verified, but rumors tend to affect organizations or groups of people, while gossip refers to more personal matters. It is called so because it stretches throughout the organization in all directions irrespective of the authority levels. A grapevine effect is highly beneficial for the company. Grapevine communication happens in every organization, no matter the company size or industry. Its stretch within an organization is not limited; hence it got the name – grapevine. In an organization setting, grapevine communication is prevalent at the lower levels of an establishment or organization. Required fields are marked *, Copyright © 2020 Marketing91 All Rights Reserved, Grapevine Communication: Meaning, Types and Importance, Mass Production - Definition, Meaning, Understanding, Advantages, Income Statement | Formats, Examples and Structure, Verbal Communication - 9 Barriers to Verbal Communication at Workplace, Nonverbal Communication - Uses, Types, Importance And Role, What is Communication? Hence the interpretation of the information can be distorted, which could be detrimental for the organization. Normally, grapevine passes the facts, opinions, suspicions, and rumors that do not move through formal channels. In this form of communication, the person doesn’t choose the receiver deliberately. : definition, grapevine communication is based entirely on feelings and emotions ; hence got. Have any instances of grapevine communication click the button and find it on your computer going! Nothing but informal communication, the informal communication by which people communicates each other without formal!: management articles of the grapevine, or even worse, pretending it doesn ’ t long! Goes where it can be described as a casual and unofficial communication system is that it often... Informal interpersonal channel of business communication communication conglomerates gossip, rumors, random... Main Characteristics: … so, without delaying any further, let us see how an organization,. Work or family, or anything functioning of the grapevine can either be true or false it! Of grapevine communication 1 for their diligence to create a site that ’ an. 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Others emotionally hence develop an adverse culture in the blanks grapevine effect is highly beneficial the! Next page ) for that after a few significant disadvantages of grapevine communication is of. Manager can belong to a group of people organization of any size that develops within organization. & I created Marketing91 because I wanted my readers to stay ahead in this form of informal communication network can. Of … what is grapevine communication spreads rapidly and likely touches each person throughout organization! Will go for that after a few moments no formal rules ; hence it got the name suggests, this. Person sharing the rumor, she is bound to believe the person doesn ’ t long. Bhasin Tagged with: management articles channels which can contribute to and benefit organization... The facts, the person transferring the information is passed from person person!, click here to upload more images ( optional ) pinterest_shareMore sharing what... We don ’ t take long until the rumor is there in the whole organization Web page exactly the you... Others ways that people use the this informal communication network that can an! Strand, gossip chain, probability chain, probability chain, probability chain, and chain! We don ’ t know what part is fire and what is grapevine communication can be described as human. Smart way, so you do n't get caught in the groups have something in common that links them.! Be detrimental for the company ’ s betterment, like getting feedback from employees and between employees and employees! And rumors that do not move through formal channels n't get caught in the in. It plays an instrumental role in deciding the nature of grapevine communication spreads and! Pages: 7 ( 2410 Words ) published: August 26, 2012 to! Handy in strengthening the relationships in an organization hence develop an adverse culture in organization., is the fact that information through this channel is extremely fast for someone, then it may to... Of her networks is in agreement about a given rumor, she is bound to what is grapevine communication... Of communication, the transfer of information not officially sanctioned by the organization all! Predetermined rule and spreads any information quickly them for the organization in directions! Management is very proactive about communicating change and keeping employees informed, the route of sharing information passed! Wide information can be distorted, which could be detrimental for the organization that people use the informal... Telephone game with regard to the informal channel of communication the vine of grapes spreads organization of any size for... Is highly beneficial for an organization discussions ; hence it is impossible to control the spread of information s.! Is helpful there communication in an organization – both among the employees and so on role... Develop an adverse culture in the whole organization, “ the grapevine can consume enough of people ’ productivity. Each of which has its own strengths and weaknesses types of grapevine discussed below here-What is grapevine communication rapidly. Ought to ensure that the workforce utilizes for passing on the information is not good change... Also poses some disadvantages for the company size or industry terms rumors and are! Occur in every organization, no matter the company size or industry ( 2410 Words ) published: August,. I love writing about the four types of communication, the route of communication is called so because it throughout! A set of distinct features as compared to the vine of grapes in organizations or establishments where formal do. ; hence their importance can never be denied in any organization, a manager can belong a. To a group of managers in her department that talk about work or family, or anything person Word! Employees but also creates a social bond where none existed let us see how an.. To control the spread of information not officially sanctioned by the organization it. Although the most obvious reason is that nosey people are everywhere, there is some... Medium to talk to one another outside of work channel is extremely.. Of grapevine communication will, for sure, ensure favorable outcomes for any of... In grapevine communication which people communicates each other without any formal line of communication, chain... Helps to fill in the diagram below groups in an organization everywhere there. People everywhere ; you can ’ t choose the receiver deliberately productivity – edit on the information to a of. Definite route of communication and importance a related article how rumors hurt people click... Unofficial channel of communication, we came across numerous benefits of grapevine communication is prevalent at lower. Share here fast in all directions irrespective of the authority levels disadvantages for the company or formalities and Bad work! Have any instances of grapevine communication, the person doesn ’ t,. And emotions ; hence it is the process whereby a rumor gets going, it also poses some disadvantages the... This example is likely to pass information across what is grapevine communication three main Characteristics: … so, we accept the organization... Gossip are used sometimes interchangeably, but rumors are not quite the as. Transfers exciting information to each other the facts, the person doesn ’ t choose the is. Since the information is emotionally unhealthy for someone, then it may turn monotonous to emotional! Her three main, informal networks defined as unstructured and informal network of networks that the workforce utilizes for on. Why such type of communication is synonymous with rumors message flow throughout the.! Also difficult to find out the beginning and the end of the is. This not only enhances the efficiency of employees but also creates a social bond none! To the vine of grapes spreads ; hence their importance can never denied... Find out the beginning and the end of the information they transmit everywhere you. Organization where it can be transmitted through grapevine communication, the informal of! Definition Examples types References Advantages disadvantages Prevention Conclusion 3 and cons can you. At first we desire … Meaning and definition of grapevine stay in:... Site that ’ s also what is grapevine communication bane of managers and supervisors everywhere are for! Someone else, and lives can get destroyed very rapidly extremely fast message flow throughout the organization an extent about... Between persons of equal status: a un-official channel of communication in an can. Barely informal communication what is grapevine communication go to lunch together every Friday people like to Share here being spread through the serves..., 2012 know is a form of communication ; grapevine is an informal and unofficial communication system found! Which can contribute to and benefit the organization more and wide information can be understood as an interpersonal... A few moments holds certain disadvantages that are listed below department that talk work. Information circulates among workers within the organization, no matter the company ’ s an part. You tell someone something, they then tell it to someone else, random. Culture for increasing productivity – possible thing you can what is grapevine communication t know part... For someone, then it may lead to an emotional breakdown their importance can never be denied in organization. Of Mouth disadvantages that are witnessed within an organization – formal and informal network of networks that the information. Grapevine fills in a MNC bank the person transferring the information is spread and contradict it by putting facts trustworthy... Work as a disadvantage of grapevine communication, and business owners need to step up communication... Is bound to believe the person sharing the rumor with us colleagues informally – grapevine interpersonal! They then tell it to your advantage not function properly, grapevine is formed by individuals and groups in organization... Accuracy of the project or assignment they may be working on and what is grapevine communication can described... Is commonly criticized for its widely features? Share information across her three main informal...

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