Difference between formal and informal communication

Formal Communication:

1. ‘Formal Communication’ is the transmission of infor­mation in formal organizational structure and in specific direction.

2. The purposes of formal communication are to give orders, convey instructions and fulfill the objectives of the organisation through some pre-determined rules and regulations.

3. Letters, reports, memos, speeches, e-mail, internet, website, etc. are used in the case of formal communi­cation.

4. In the case of formal communication feedback requires some time due to completion of formal procedure.

5. Formal communication is time-consuming and costly.

6. It is official and formal in nature.

Informal Communication:

1. ‘Informal Communication’ is the communication on the basis of informal relations and understanding among the people at the same or different levels.

2. The purposes of informal communication are to build up informal relationship through personal contacts, sharing of information, etc.

3. Usually verbal channels (e.g., face-to-face conversations, telephone calls, gossip, etc.) are used in the case of informal communication.

4 . In informal communication feedback is immediate.

5. Informal communication being verbal is less costly and immediate. Of course, gossip may consume productive working hours.

6. It is unofficial and informal in nature.