Grapevine Communication

2 Pages 549 Words

The most powerful communication tool in the workplace is the “grapevine”. If manipulated properly, this form of communication can greatly benefit a company. If ignored, the grapevine can create havoc within an organization.
Astute managers have come to realize several aspects concerning the grapevine: The grapevine will never be eliminated, that it circulates information quickly and is oblivious to any damage it creates. One way to combat the potential destructive consequences of the inaccurate information is to take the time to listen to the grapevine instead of ignoring it. Once managers are aware of the content of the grapevine, they can head off potential problems by manipulating further grapevine communications by injecting factual information into the pipeline. This actually serves a dual purpose. It helps to keep managers informed on what issues are important to their employees and also keeps the managers aware of whether or not they are properly providing official information to their employees. In most cases, lack of company provided information is at the root of the problem for employees will often make up their own scenarios.
If the grapevine cannot be abolished, an organization must find ways to use it to its advantage. Managers should ask employees to approach them with any rumors. This would be the best way to correct inaccurate information before it becomes harmful.
Grapevine conversations are often just another form of gossip and gossip is basically about bonding. Gossiping heightens connectedness between people. A lot of people feel more loved as they gossip. You value me; I value you as we share these secrets.
In an office, you often replicate a lot of things that happened in your family. Hours spent in the office often equal or exceed time spent with one’s own family members. This is why things in an office can get intense fast. This tension gives rise to gossip sessions, which helps to s...