Search results

1 – 3 of 3
Per page
102050
Citations:
Loading...
Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 24 September 2024

Nora Denner, Thomas Koch, Benno Viererbl and Alicia Ernst

This study examines the functions of informal communication in organizations. Informal communication can be characterized as any interaction within an organization in which two or…

353

Abstract

Purpose

This study examines the functions of informal communication in organizations. Informal communication can be characterized as any interaction within an organization in which two or more individuals assume personal roles rather than their professional roles and in which employees do not intend to solve work-related problems. Despite its central role in organizations, a comprehensive understanding of the specific functions of informal communication within workplace dynamics is lacking.

Design/methodology/approach

We reviewed existing literature to identify the functions of informal communication and then surveyed employees (N = 1,380). We asked them to indicate their agreement with statements measuring the functions of informal communication that we derived from the literature.

Findings

Using exploratory factor analysis, we identified four core functions: stress management and recreation, nurturing private relationships, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness and facilitating information exchange and coordination. We then examined how these core functions related to job-related and sociodemographic characteristics. Our findings underscore the importance of informal communication in organizations, particularly in facilitating the development and maintenance of social relationships as well as information exchange and coordination, both of which play critical roles in organizational success.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to systematize the functions of informal communication in organizations and to empirically extract core functions that can be used for further research. It is also highly relevant to practitioners of organizational management and organizational communication.

Details

Journal of Communication Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1363-254X

Keywords

Available. Content available
Article
Publication date: 15 November 2024

Martina Topic

156

Abstract

Details

Corporate Communications: An International Journal, vol. 29 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-3289

Available. Content available
Book part
Publication date: 31 May 2024

Free Access. Free Access

Abstract

Details

Communication in Uncertain Times
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83549-592-6

Access

Only content I have access to

Year

Content type

1 – 3 of 3
Per page
102050