Informal Communication:

Definition: The Informal Communication is the casual and unofficial form of communication
wherein the information is exchanged spontaneously between two or more persons without
conforming the prescribed official rules, processes, system, formalities and chain of command.
The informal communications are based on the personal or informal relations such as
friends, peers, family, club members, etc. and thus is free from the organizational conventional
rules and other formalities. In the business context, the informal communication is called as a
“grapevine” as it is difficult to define the beginning and end of the communication.
For example:
Small talk is informal communication and a first building block for interpersonal relationships.
It serves the important purpose of allowing for low-stakes interactions as people build initial
connections and identify common interests, similar needs, and other mutual interests. Small talk
is generally a friendly, brief conversation with no real agenda other than to share a pleasant
interaction with another person. Most relationships of substance begin with some sort of small
talk.
Effective small talk is not only speaking, but listening, too. Engaging the other person in the
conversation keeps them from getting bored and makes the conversation a true dialogue with
both people contributing. Asking open-ended questions is one way to engage the other person.
It is important to avoid interrupting the other person when they are talking. Maintaining eye
contact, leaning forward slightly, and smiling (if/when appropriate) are strategies for providing
positive nonverbal feedback that communicates interest.
Conversational skills in small talk involve being attentive, asking open-ended questions, and
finding common ground. Maintain good eye contact, use positive body language, and listen
actively to show genuine interest. Keep topics light and relatable, and don't be afraid to share a
bit about yourself. Practice empathy and avoid controversial subjects to create a comfortable
atmosphere.

Types of Informal Communication (four distinct types of informal communication

network)
Majorly, there are four different types of informal communication network:
Single Strand: In this, information is passed from one person to the next in a sequence, like a
telephone game. This type of network is usually slow and distortion prone, as the message may
be altered varying from one individual to another.

Gossip Chain: A gossip chain occurs when information is passed from one person to another in
a non-linear pattern, typically through gossip or rumors.
The gossip chain network also called the wheel network.
This type of communication can be very fast and can spread widely throughout an organization,
but it can also be unreliable and may result in the spread of false or harmful information.

Probability Chain: In a probability chain communication pattern, information is passed from

one person to another based on the likelihood of that person being interested or affected by the
information.

For example, if an employee hears about a new project that is relevant

to their department, they may pass the information on to other employees who are also likely to
be interested in the project. This type of communication can be more efficient than single-strand
communication, but it can also result in information being restricted to certain groups.
Cluster Chain: A cluster chain occurs when information is passed within a group of closely
connected individuals, such as a team or department. This type of communication can be very
effective for sharing information and building relationships within a group, but it can also lead to
groupthink or a lack of diversity of ideas.

Importance of informal communication

Informal communication can also be beneficial as it can promote open communication, build
relationships, and foster a positive work environment. In this context, let’s take a look at the
importance of informal communication:

Building relationships: Informal communication allows people to connect on a personal level

and build relationships based on trust and mutual understanding.
Providing feedback: Informal communication can provide an opportunity for individuals to give
and receive feedback on work-related issues in a more relaxed and comfortable setting. This
can help to improve performance and productivity.
Sharing information: Informal communication can be a way for people to share information
that may not be appropriate or necessary to share through formal channels.
Strengthening company culture: By encouraging open communication, transparency, and
inclusivity, informal communication can contribute to the development of a positive company
culture.
New ideas, suggestions, opinions may come out through such communication as people can
express their feelings without fear.

However, it’s important to strike a balance between informal and formal communication to
ensure that important information is not missed or misunderstood.

Difference between formal and informal communication

Formal Communication
● Follows a structured format
● Uses official language and jargon
● Requires adherence to organizational hierarchy
● Typically documented in writing
● Emphasis on accuracy and precision

Informal communication
● Lacks a specific format
● Uses conversational language
● Ignores organizational hierarchy
● Often conveyed verbally or through body language
● Emphasis on building personal relationships