Introduction
Informal communication (also known as casual communication) is a process of exchanging information, thoughts, ideas and messages without following proper channels and rules like in formal communication. It is more flexible and not bounded by organization's rules and policies. Gossip, messaging, team-building, casual chats etc. are some examples of informal communication.
Advantages Of Informal Communication
The main advantages of informal communication can be highlighted as follows:
1. Rapid Exchange Of Information
Informal communication ensures speedy transfer of information and message. Information can be exchanged quickly that facilitates quick response and feedback.
2.Increased Efficiency
Another advantage of informal communication is that it helps the employees to explain their problems, opinion and ideas freely. They can get proper response and guidance from superiors that helps to increase the efficiency of employees in the workplace.
3. Better Relation And Harmony
Informal communication encourages interpersonal relation and promotes personal bonding between the members (management and employees) in the organization. So, it helps to create sense of harmony and team spirit in the workplace.
4. Cost And Time Saving
Informal communication does not follow specific rules, policies and channel to exchange information. So, it does not require more paperwork, devices and equipment like in formal communication. Therefore, it saves cost, time, resources and effort.
5. Increased Job Satisfaction
It helps to create friendly working environment in the company. Because of increased sense of belonging, it helps to improve employee motivation. Improved motivation leads to increase in the job satisfaction.
6. Increased Productivity
Because of increased efficiency, better coordination and team spirit, it increases the productivity of the organization.
Disadvantages Of Informal Communication
The main limitations or disadvantages of informal communication can be illustrated as follows:
1. Lack Of Clarity
As we know that informal communication does not follow proper rules, policies and procedure to exchange information, it may lack clarity that leads to misinformation, confusion and misunderstanding among peers.
2. Lack Of Privacy
Another drawback of informal communication is that it lacks secrecy and privacy. Private and important information can be leaked because there is no specific procedure and structure to send messages. It may cause huge loss (both monetary and nonmonetary) to the organization.
3. Lack Of Reliability
Because of the lack of clarity and secrecy it is not reliable than formal communication. Therefore, it is not suitable to share confidential and important information.
4. No Record
Generally, informal communication lacks documentation, it means it cannot be used for future purpose. It also becomes difficult to hold someone accountable.
Also Read
Advantages and disadvantages of formal communication
Advantages and disadvantages of written communication
Advantages and disadvantages of oral communication
Characteristics of formal and informal communication
5. Difficult To Control
Because of the lack of rules and channel of transmission of message it is difficult for the management to control rumors and gossips
Pros And Cons Of Informal Communication In Brief
Pros
* It saves time and costs
* It ensures quick exchange of information and message
* It is adoptable and flexible
* It improves efficiency and productivity
* It builds better relationship between management and employees
* It is more democratic than formal communication
Cons
* It increases the chance of misunderstanding and misinformation
* It lacks accountability
* It may create rumors
* It is difficult to maintain secrecy
* It is difficult for the management to control
* It increases the possibility of errors and mistakes in the workstation
