Organizational Communication Flashcards

Which type of organizational communication network is characterized by one central person through whom all messages must pass?

Answer: Wheel network

In a wheel network, all communication flows through a central hub (the 'hub' member), making that person a key gatekeeper and bottleneck for information exchange.

Which of the following is the primary purpose of a communication channel strategy in an organization?

Answer: To match the appropriate communication medium to the message type and audience needs

A channel strategy ensures that the right medium — email, meetings, intranet, etc. — is selected based on message complexity, urgency, and the needs of the target audience.

Cross-functional communication in an organization is best described as:

Answer: Information exchange between employees across different departments or functional areas

Cross-functional communication occurs horizontally across different departments or teams, enabling collaboration, coordination, and the sharing of information across organizational silos.

Which term describes the degree to which employees understand and can articulate the organization's goals, values, and key messages?

Answer: Internal brand alignment

Internal brand alignment measures how well employees understand, internalize, and can consistently communicate the organization's purpose, values, and strategic direction.

A communication professional conducting a 'climate survey' is primarily measuring:

Answer: Employees' perceptions of the overall communication environment and openness within the organization

A communication climate survey assesses employees' perceptions of trust, openness, and information flow within the organization, reflecting whether the environment supports or hinders effective communication.

When organizational communication theory refers to 'equivocality,' it means that messages are:

Answer: Open to multiple interpretations, creating uncertainty

Equivocality describes situations where messages carry multiple possible meanings, requiring richer communication channels and more interaction to resolve ambiguity.

The 'two-step flow' theory of organizational communication suggests that:

Answer: Information from leaders first reaches opinion leaders, who then relay and interpret it to others

The two-step flow theory posits that messages flow from a source to influential opinion leaders first, who then translate and disseminate the information to broader audiences within the organization.