What Are the Two Ways of Communication in the Workplace?

Although there are several ways to communicate in the workplace, the most basic types are external communication and internal communication. Internal communication is used to regulate, manage and encourage productivity. Internal communication happens between company employees. External communication is used to advertise, sell, respond and build the business. External communication happens between company representatives and customers, vendors and others.

Internal Communication

Internal communication can motivate, reprimand or inform. Examples of internal communications are memos, email messages, instant messages and phone calls. For example, a manager might send out a mass email about an upcoming meeting. Company reports often disperse information about last year's profits and this year's goals. A phone call to get questions answered is another example of internal communication.

Face-to-Face

Companies use face-to-face internal communication in training, promotions, demotions and other areas of the workplace. While managers also can handle most of these tasks with written communication, an in-person, face-to-face communication is more personal and opens the door for verbal exchange.

External Communication

Many forms of external workplace communication are available, including faxes, Internet websites and advertising. Your company website promotes your business, allowing you to showcase your products and services. Faxes allow you to communicate over long distances, in writing, so there is a paper trail of the communication effort on your part. External communication not only serves customers but also can be used to place inventory orders with vendors, check out the competition and plan for the future. A phone call to a competitor gives you pricing information. An email to potential customers alerts them to upcoming deals and bargains.

Advertising

Advertising is a type of external communication. Placing an advertisement that highlights your product, service or sales lets the outside world know what you have going on. Even for customers who are not currently in need of your service, a well-designed ad can remind them to call you when needs do arise.