c All channel networkCommunication flows freely among all members of a work team | Course Hero

Answer: The informal organizational communication network in organizations

is known as the grapevine. The grapevine is active in almost every organization.

It is an important source of information for employees, many of whom hear

about important matters first through rumors or gossip on the grapevine. Acting

as both a filter and a feedback mechanism, it pinpoints those bewildering issues

that employees consider important. More importantly, from a managerial point

of view, it is possible to analyze what is happening on the grapevine—what

information is being passed, how information seems to flow, and what

individuals seem to be key information conduits. By staying aware of the

grapevine’s flow and patterns, managers can identify issues that concern

employees, and, in turn, use the grapevine to disseminate important information.

Because the grapevine can’t be eliminated, managers should “manage” it as an

important information network.

Rumors that flow along the grapevine also can never be eliminated entirely.

However, managers can minimize the negative consequences of rumors by

communicating openly, fully, and honestly with employees, particularly in

situations where employees may not like proposed or actual managerial

decisions.

Page Ref: 490

Learning Outcome: Describe communication skills and the factors affecting

communication within an organization

AACSB: Reflective Thinking Skills; Communication Abilities

Ch. Objective: 4

Difficulty: Easy

Classification: Conceptual

105) “The grapevine is detrimental to effective organizational communication

and must be eliminated if the organization is to effectively engage its

employees.” Do you agree with this statement? Explain your answer.

Answer: Student answers may vary. However, it is a fact that the grapevine, an

informal organizational network is part of every organization. In fact, it is an

important source of information for the company. This makes it imperative for

companies to try to understand its dynamics. Acting as both a filter and a