Group development theories and processes

Group Communications

Memo: To the department heads of Company X

What is the purpose of group communication? The reason that working in teams is so important is that a group is often stronger than the sum of its component parts. When people work effectively together on a common goal, they can pool their collective strengths, and other members of the team can compensate for the weaknesses of other members of the group. But conversely, the weakness of group communication is sometimes a group falls prey to bickering and infighting, and does not generate a productive sense of dialogue amongst its members.

A sense of mutual respect is necessary amongst all group members, even when there is a disagreement. In fact, debate and disagreement can be healthy, provided it is not done in a threatening or personally demeaning fashion. Although the members of the group may argue, they must know how to do so in a manner that is productive and issue-focused, rather than personal. Factionalism must be avoided at all costs. Obeying the rules of etiquette, such as not interrupting when another person is speaking or ensuring that everyone has a chance to provide input during a discussion, can work wonders to keep tempers from flaring. In an unfamiliar group, these protocols may need to be formal, in a group of people who know each other well helpful reminders from the leader might be the best way to keep courteous behavior in mind.