What is Horizontal Communication and How It Benefits Businesses?

Communication and message flow among teams, groups, or individuals at the same hierarchical level within an organization is referred to as horizontal communication. This form of communication facilitates internal communication among employees who occupy similar functional positions and promotes collaboration, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and adept information sharing. In this article, we will explore the significance of horizontal communication in business management and how it can be utilized in the workplace to optimize organizational productivity. Let's begin with the introduction.

Communication involves the transmission of information from one individual to another through different channels or means. These channels or means are commonly referred to as communication tools.

Horizontal communication, on the other hand, occurs when two individuals at the same organizational level engage in communication with each other.

Because of such tools, communication becomes effective and efficient, if used properly.

Definition

Industry experts have defined Horizontal Communication as communication that takes place among colleagues who hold similar positions within an organization, according to Betty and Kay.

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Rewritten:

According to R.W. Griffin, horizontal communication pertains to communication among colleagues and peers who hold the same level of authority within the organization. While this definition may provide some clarity on the nature of horizontal communication, it is important to also familiarize oneself with other types of communication in order to fully comprehend the nuances of this particular form.

Types of Business Communication

There are four types of business communications. These are as follows:

1) Upward communication

In vertical communication, information is transmitted from lower-level employees to higher-level operators within a business organization. This type of communication allows subordinates to share feedback with their managers, who can then pass it on to the CEO. Vertical communication fosters a sense of unity and home within the company, which can improve employee morale and productivity.

2) Vertical communication

Downward communication is a top-down approach where managers share information with their subordinates. It usually involves the manager giving instructions or explaining rules and regulations, rather than engaging in a conversation seeking a response. An example of this would be a manager explaining company policies to a junior or intern.

3) Horizontal Communication

4) External communication

This type of communication, known as horizontal communication, involves the flow of information between individuals or groups at the same level within an organization. It allows for conversations to take place among peers, such as managers from different departments, allowing for collaboration and the sharing of ideas.

Interacting with the external environment is an essential aspect of any business. Success is heavily influenced by both internal and external factors, with the latter including customers, dealers, buyers, agents, and other stakeholders. Without these external parties, a business cannot operate effectively, as they play a crucial role in areas such as product information dissemination and facility usage. One common area of confusion is the distinction between vertical and horizontal communication channels, which we will clarify in the following sections.

Horizontal Communication vs. Vertical Communication

In an organization, horizontal communication occurs between managers of different departments who hold the same level of authority. On the other hand, vertical communication involves mid-level and low-level employees within the organization.

The communication style mentioned in the previous fragment is known as one-way communication, where the speaker only delivers information without expecting any response or feedback. The recipient is obligated to follow the instructions given to them.

Basis of differenceHorizontalVertical

Flow of informationIt flows to people having the same position or status.It flows from superior to its subordinate and so on.

To ensure the organization's objectives are met, it is necessary to coordinate efforts across various departments. This involves ensuring that communication channels are effective in conveying information and orders, and that feedback is received through upward communication. Communication methods can be either oral or written.

Formal/informalInformalFormal

Possibility of chaosMore Less

Key Characteristics of Effective Horizontal Communication

The fundamentals or the basics of effective horizontal communications are as follows:

1) Easy to understand

2) Attentiveness

Clear communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings between the sender and receiver. It's important to simplify the message so that anyone receiving it can understand it on the first try. Failure to do so can result in chaos and confusion.

Paying close attention to our peers when they communicate is crucial for productive interactions. Failing to listen attentively can result in missed points that are vital for enhancing productivity. Often, we assume that a person may not have said something during a conversation due to our own lack of awareness. It is crucial to ensure that we hear them correctly to facilitate effective communication.

3) Broad-mindedness

Miscommunication often arises from our own narrow perspectives, causing us to misunderstand the message being conveyed by others and leading to unnecessary conflicts. To prevent such issues and promote effective communication, it is important for the recipient of the message to have an open and receptive mindset.

4) Remembering the message

Effective horizontal communication hinges on the ability to remember past conversations. This is crucial for ensuring that subsequent dialogues flow seamlessly between parties.

for consistency.

Effective communication among peers is essential for the success of any organization. Horizontal communication, which takes place between individuals at the same level of hierarchy, can be highly beneficial for an organization. Here are some tips on how to facilitate effective horizontal communication:

How effective is Horizontal Communication in a Business Environment?

Effective communication within an organization requires horizontal coordination among peers and department managers of the same level. This ensures a seamless exchange of information and ideas.

When departments collaborate to achieve the organization's objectives, it enhances efficiency and ultimately leads to profitability. The analogy of a business being a fist and the departments being the fingers highlights the power of unity in transforming losses into gains.

This is how the horizontal way of communication is valid for a business environment for its survival.

Here is a video byon Horizontal Communication. 

Horizontal Communication is a Gift for the Growth of the Organisation.

Collaboration between departments is crucial for the success of any organization. Horizontal communication is a valuable tool that promotes growth by fostering coordination and cooperation between departments. This type of communication flows seamlessly throughout the organization, allowing for quick resolution of any misunderstandings or issues that may arise. In this way, horizontal communication serves as a gift that keeps on giving, enabling the organization to grow and thrive.

The one-on-one format of communication fosters faster and more interactive exchanges compared to other methods. Its informality allows for easy approachability without the need for formalities. Given its dynamic and diverse nature, horizontal communication yields ideas that are highly beneficial for organizational growth.

2 Methods of Horizontal Communication

1) Oral Communication

When it comes to effective communication, oral communication is one of the best methods available. This type of communication involves speaking, phone calls, video calls, and one-on-one conversations, among others. Since the speaker and listener are in direct contact with each other, the chances of miscommunication are greatly reduced.

Many business organizations prioritize effective communication and incorporate it into their work framework. Meetings are a common form of communication in such organizations, but it can be a drawback if important information is not recorded or documented. This can lead to loss of information and decreased effectiveness. Despite this, some organizations still prefer traditional methods of communication.

2) Written Communication

Written communication, specifically the vertical way of communication, is often associated with traditional methods. However, it still holds significant importance in horizontal communication. This form of communication includes written mediums such as letters, memos, applications, and emails. Its effectiveness lies in the fact that the information received is clear and cannot be denied in case of disputes.

However, it is important to acknowledge the potential drawbacks of written communication. If important information is lost or destroyed, it cannot be retrieved, which can hinder the effectiveness of the organization.

Disadvantages of Horizontal Communication

Since the horizontal way of communication involves different people altogether these are the few issues below that can hamper the communication in the business organization:-

A lack of motivation in one team member can often have a negative impact on the motivation of others, leading to potential disagreements and disputes.

Effective communication can be significantly disrupted when a member of an organization refuses to involve someone due to personal reasons such as ego issues. To ensure a harmonious and productive environment, every member should feel valued and included. However, the existence of various personalities may result in certain individuals feeling left out in horizontal communication.

Every person must be treated equally to function correctly. As it is said; Unity can make the team stronger”.

Wrap Up!

Horizontal communication is widely recognized as the most utilized and impactful method of communication between peers within a business organization. Its ability to foster growth and enhance coordination has made it increasingly popular in today's world, where even remote employees can be seamlessly integrated through the use of effective horizontal communication strategies. In short, it is the communication method of the present.

What is your perspective on the relevance of horizontal communication in modern-day business operations? Is it an essential tool for effective dissemination of crucial messages and information? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.

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