User:Amandab430/Superior-subordinate communication

Lead
In an organization, communication occurs between members of different hierarchical positions. Superior-subordinate communication refers to the interactions between organizational leaders and their subordinates and how they work together to achieve personal and organizational goals. Satisfactory upward and downward communication is essential for a successful organization because it closes the gap between superior and subordinates by increasing the levels of trust, support, and the frequency of their interactions. Superior-subordinate communication is a concept that needs to be studied closely since the communication channels should be open-ended and information passed on should be well received, as to maintain respect and an unstrained relationship between the two parties.

Openness in communication[edit]
Open communication between superior and subordinate organizational members is an effective way to establish trust within the company. The most effective way to implement open communication is for management to engage in regular face-to-face conversations with employees in order to express their level of care for the work being done. It is important for management to ensure that each employee is being praised for his/ her individual contributions to the organization and to provide ample feedback on things he/ she is doing well and things he/ she can improve upon. This line of open communication makes employees feel more comfortable disclosing any personal issues they are experiencing within the organization. When a superior is seen acting

 Relationship maintenance[edit] 

Maintaining the relationship between superior and subordinate will differ greatly, depending on the expectations of the individual parties. Some will settle for nothing less than a close friendship with their superior. Others may be primarily focused on maintaining a professional relationship. Those who may not get along with their superiors may be focused on just maintaining a civil relationship. The unusual relationship between superior and subordinates requires specific maintenance strategies since some typical ones, like avoidance, are unacceptable. There are four common types of relationship maintenance strategies for this variation of relationship. First there are informal interactions, such as joking and non-work related conversations that emphasize creating a friendship. There are also formal interactions, such as politeness and respect for the superior's authority, that help to create a professional superior-subordinate relationship. There are also tactics that allow a subordinate to impressive to the superior, such as a hesitancy to deliver bad news or showing enthusiasm. The final relationship maintenance strategy includes open discussion about the relationship with the superior, including explicitly telling them how they want to be treated in the workplace