In any workplace, there are two types of communication- Formal and Informal Communication. However, people usually get confused with these two channels. So here we are explaining the difference between formal and informal communication.
Good communication acts as a bridge between confusion and clarity. It is a mode for exchanging thoughts, ideas, opinions, and emotions. People use different forms of communication, like verbal, oral, or written. Some people also have the ability and skill to deliver their message through sign language, gestures, facial expressions, body movements, etc.
Formal communication refers to the type of communication where information flows through pre-defined mediums and channels. The flow of communication requires control and deliberate effort to communicate. It follows a hierarchy and a particular chain of command.
The hierarchy flows from top to down, from leaders to senior managers to associates, and the junior staff. While employees are communicating in the workplace, they usually follow the formal mode of communication.
Formal communication is used in Bulletin Boards, Presentations, Letters, Meetings, Emails, Speeches, etc.
The formal conversation is grouped into the following:
Informal communication is multidimensional. It refers to the type of communication that moves with no foundation of medium and channels. It’s pretty easy and quick. People use informal communication in their everyday lives, hence it’s far more relatable and moves a lot faster.
When informal communication is used in a workplace, it is known as “Grapevine”. It begins when employees interact with each other socially, beyond work. It is effective because people understand it faster and there’s no room for confusion.
Informal communication is used in public places, social interactions, chats, etc.
Informal conversation is grouped into the following:
Formal or informal communication, what should you prefer at the workplace
| Basis of Comparison | Formal Communication | Informal Communication |
| Meaning | A type of communication where information flows through pre-defined mediums and channels. | A type of communication that moves with no foundation of medium and channels |
| Another name | It is also known as official communication. | It is also known as Grapevine. |
| Speed | Message flows at a slower speed. | Messages flow at a faster speed because of better understanding. |
| Purpose | Used at a workplace for exchanging vital information. | Used at casual zones for social interactions. |
| Reliability | More reliable | Less reliable |
| Effectiveness | Requires more time & effort | Requires less time & effort, as there are no set boundaries |
| Frequency | Used only inside the workplace | Used everywhere e.g. home, restaurant, shops, etc, hence the high frequency |
| Secrecy | High level of secrecy | Maintaining secrecy becomes a challenge here |
| Structure | The information flows in a predefined structure | The information flows freely. |
Both formal and informal communication are required to maintain a healthy flow of information. It helps maintain a cordial work environment. So what makes official communication different from casual communication? Let’s find out.
Some of the common scenarios where we use formal Communication are:
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Some of the common scenarios where we use informal communication are:
Below is a comprehensive list of different forms of formal communication:
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Conclusion:
In this new age, most organisations prefer an open-door policy, which promotes a mix of formal and informal communication. It eventually enhances productivity, efficiency, and transparency among employees. However, the mode of communication should change as per the demand of the situation.
Since everybody has a mix of official and unofficial associations, it is essential to balance the two forms of communication. In case your formal communication is not fluent enough, it may lead to poor customer relations and ultimately risk your job.
While some people hold the skill to communicate fluently, others might need to develop the same with time. Therefore, it’s crucial to focus on the purpose of communication rather than fearing the skills of others.
It’s important for people to strengthen their formal as well as informal communication skills. Formal communication yields better results in the professional world. Although to communicate in a more relaxed setup, we need informal communication. Here, the message is communicated faster and easier.
Formal communication has a defined structure, while informal communication is performed in a casual setup. Formal communication happens in the workplace environment and informal communication occurs in gatherings and family meetings.
Formal communication in business has a predefined structure designed by the business. The information passes through a hierarchy and an optimum level of secrecy is maintained.
Informal communication in business is unstructured communication that does not have any predefined guidelines.
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