BUS603: Managing People

Upward communication moves from lower to higher levels within an organization.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Evaluate the value created through ensuring upwards communication is accessible and encouraged by upper management

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Key Points

• Upward communication is the transmission of information from lower levels of an organization to higher ones.
• Upward communication often comes in response to downwardly communicated requests for information, opinions, or actions.
• The channel used to share upward communication (e.g., face-to-face, over the telephone, writing) can influence its effectiveness.
• Upward communication can be an important source of information that informs management 's decision -making.

Key Terms

• subordinate: Someone or something placed in a lower class, rank, or position.
• upward communication: The flow of information from lower levels of a hierarchy to higher levels.
• vigilance: Close and continuous attention to someone or something.

Upward communication is the transmission of information from lower levels of an organization to higher ones; the most common form is employees communicating with managers. Managers who are open to and encourage upward communication foster cooperation, gains support, and reduces frustration among their employees. The content of such communication can include judgments, estimations, propositions, complaints, grievances, appeals, reports, and any other information directed from subordinates to superiors. Upward communication is often made in response to downward communication; for instance, employees answering a question from their manager. In this way, upward communication indicates the effectiveness of a company's downward communication.

The communication channel, or mode of sharing information, strongly influences the upward communication process. Information sharing can be face-to-face, over the phone, or in writing. Subordinates should make an effort to identify the preferred means of receiving communication from their manager or other higher-ups. For instance, sending a written report to someone who prefers to receive information in the form of a concise email is less likely to bring about the desired effect.

The availability of communication channels affects employees' overall satisfaction with upward communication. For example, an open-door policy sends the signal to employees that the manager welcomes impromptu conversations and other communication. This is likely to make employees feel satisfied with their level of access to channels of upward communication and less apprehensive about communicating upward.

For management, upward communication is an important source of information that can inform business decisions. It helps to alert management of new developments, levels of performance, and other issues that may require their attention. Whistle-blowing involves upward communication when employees communicate directly with top management about matters requiring attention or discipline (e.g., harassment from another employee), including perceived ethical or legal breaches.