Importance of Two-way Communication
Two-way communication is the complete communication process. In this communication, information flows from sender to receiver and response of the receiver goes back to the sender. In achieving the organizational goals and facing the personal problems, we need to rely on two-way communication. The following points highlight the importance of two-way communication:
Ensuring smooth flow of information: In two-way communication, the receiver can directly express his response with regard to the message he received. As a result, smooth flow of information occurs in both directions.
Providing acknowledgement: in two-way communication, sender sends information to the receiver and receiver gives his response or answer to the sender. In this way, two-way communication acknowledges the reception of message by the receiver.
Implementation of directions: In the organization, superiors convey various orders, instructions, policies, procedures etc. to the subordinates. If subordinates fail to understand any instruction, order or policy; two-way communication allows them to ask for further clarification. Thus, two-way communication helps implementation of superiors’ directions.
Encouraging suggestion form employee: In older to enrich organizational plans and policies, management should encourage suggestion from subordinates. Such encouragement is possible when there exists two-way communication channels.
Increasing job satisfactions: Two-way communication provides employees with a means to convey their complaints, attitudes, feelings, interests and opinions to their superiors. Afterwards, superiors can take necessary steps for well-being of the employees. As a result, job satisfaction of the employees increases.
Creating democratic environment: In two-way communication, both communicator and receiver can freely express their feelings, ideas and views. This mutual exchange of information creates a democratic environment in the organization.
Overcoming ambiguity: Two-way communication is also very useful to overcome any confusion or ambiguity regarding the message as it allows the receiver to convey his response.
Creating congenial relationship: Congenial relationship between workers and management is essential to achieve organizational goals. In order to create such relationship, management must listen to the opinions and views of employees. Two-way communication makes it possible.
Increasing effectiveness of communicating: Effective communication depends or proper understanding of message by both sender and receiver. Through two-way communication, both parties can evaluate each other’s opinion and thus can increase effectiveness of their communication.
From the above discussion, it can be concluded that two-way communication plays vital role in improving organizational performance. This is the only complete communication process. For this reason, so much importance is placed on two-way communication.
