In terms of communication and business management, two types of communication need to be distinguished. These are external communication, which is aimed at clients, and internal communication, also known as corporate communication. The latter is intended for the team working within the organization. What does corporate communication actually consist of? Explanations.
Corporate Communication: Definition
Corporate communication or internal communication is the set of means and actions implemented to enable the growth and proper functioning of a company.
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There are several forms of corporate communication. Good corporate communication strengthens relationships within a project team by fostering the exchange of ideas that can lead to creativity and development.
Corporate communication is a key factor for the growth of a company. It is through this that the various administrative, technical, and commercial departments of a company maintain connections with each other. An essential collaboration for achieving the objectives of a project.
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The Different Forms of Corporate Communication
There are mainly three forms of corporate communication, namely:
- downward internal communication or downward communication;
- upward internal communication or upward communication;
- and horizontal internal communication.
You need to know and develop these three types of internal communication within your company if you aspire to better results.
Downward Corporate Communication
Downward corporate communication or downward communication encompasses all communications that go from top to bottom. It is generally a one-way communication.
This type of communication is present in all companies, but that does not mean they use it effectively.
In terms of downward internal communication, managers give instructions to supervisors who then give instructions to team leaders. The latter, in turn, instruct the rest of the employees.
The effectiveness of downward corporate communication results from clarity and encouraging the entire team to participate.
Upward Corporate Communication
This form of internal communication is the opposite of downward internal communication. Here, communications rise from the bottom to the top. Thus, communications go from employees to team leaders, from team leaders to managers, and from supervisors to management.
Upward corporate communication is very important and essential, as it allows for innovation and fosters the establishment of an excellent work environment. However, it is less present in companies.
To succeed in this type of communication in a company, you need to focus on one-on-one meetings. During these meetings, each team member should meet with their direct supervisor every quarter to receive and provide feedback.
Horizontal Corporate Communication
Horizontal corporate communication is the third form of internal communication and is the least frequently used by companies. Horizontal corporate communication consists of communicating flatly between colleagues. It takes place from one team to another, from manager to manager, from supervisor to supervisor, etc.
The advantage of this form of communication is that there are no issues related to hierarchy. However, it is a method of communication within the company that needs to be encouraged, as it may not evolve.
For the implementation of horizontal corporate communication, it is essential to establish channels that facilitate this communication. Additionally, the company’s management must encourage the use of these channels.
The Advantages of Corporate Communication
In terms of advantages, corporate communication encompasses many points. Its main advantages are the improvement of productivity and the increase in the revenue of the organization that practices it.
Apart from these advantages, internal communication allows the company to benefit from an enriched corporate culture.
Corporate communication, through its various forms, enables the head of the organization to have engaged and motivated collaborators. It also promotes the improvement of the quality of life at work. Thanks to corporate communication, employers can retain their employees.
Good internal communication contributes to reducing employee turnover and enhances the employer brand. You can make your recruitment easier through internal corporate communication and showcase your management.