Organizational communication applies to the interaction between a person and a group, specifically in the workplace. This field assesses internal and external communication, as well as communication styles within a business or a nonprofit group. Some colleges and universities offer degree programs in organizational theory and communication to students who show interest in improving human interaction. Programs focus on key areas of communication necessary for careers in management.
In the business world, managers or other leaders incorporate organizational theory into the workplace to encourage teamwork, resolve conflicts, and improve internal and external business relationships. In other words, the manager often acts as a liaison between other people or groups to reach a common ground. Organized communication involves the skills and processes necessary to create a successful business, whether it is a large corporation, a smaller business, or a nonprofit group. The field looks at the overall goal to encourage or strengthen written, oral, and interpersonal communication.
Examples of external organizational communication include interacting with the public, as in customer service, working with local organizations, fundraising, and organizing public relations campaigns. Internal communication settings include e-mail, presentations, business meetings, and employee performance reviews. Business leaders must incorporate this type of communication with specific goals in mind for promoting a successful company. These include leadership, conflict resolution, and negotiation, as well as compliance, motivation, and innovation. Organizational theory also strives to promote productivity, as well as effective decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Several universities offer training in organizational communication or organizational theory that leads to a certificate, a bachelor’s, a master’s, or a doctorate degree. Most of these programs require students to take courses relating to interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Examples of courses include theories in organizational communication, business writing, public relations, and conflict resolution and negotiation techniques. Other programs may include crisis management, global communication, communication technologies, and professional speaking. Overall, training enables the person to understand human interaction and behavior, maintain a positive work atmosphere, and listen effectively to employees or customers.
A degree in the field prepares students for careers in management, such as human resources, as well as other fields. Part of the duties of a sales representative, for example, includes incorporating organized communication strategies. Other careers to which the field applies include public relations manager, publicist, mediator, recruiter, and event planner. A patient advocate also uses organizational communication skills when mediating between a patient and a healthcare provider.