Organizational Behavior and Communication Essay

This paper will focus on the American Red Cross. The culture, espoused values and enacted values are all important aspects of this organization. Communication plays a very vital role in the perception and organizational culture. Perceptions within this organization might cause misalignment between espoused and enacted values. Being able to identify the role of conflict in group communication of the organization is very vital to the success of the organization. The conflict tends to improve communication within and among groups, so that the organization can be effective. American Red Cross According to http://www. firelandsredcross. org/History. htm, the American Red Cross is the largest volunteer organization in America. Since the founding of the Red Cross by Clara Barton in 1881, volunteers have been trained to help families, friends, and neighbors in the event of an emergency. It is committed to making a positive difference by improving the quality of human life, enhancing self-reliance and concern for others, and helping people avoid, prepare for, and cope with emergencies. The American Red Cross South Arkansas chapter saves lives by responding with food, shelter, and hope when a disaster occurs. This organization saves lives. When disaster strikes, we respond with food, shelter and hope. Some of the major principles of American Red Cross Movement are: humanity, impartiality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. The shared values of this organization includes: humanitarianism, stewardship, helping others, respect, voluntary spirit, continuous learning, and integrity. Some key elements toward the success of an organization should be influenced by the: culture, communication, role of conflict in group communication, and how conflict improves communication in the organization. Communication and Culture The relationship between communication and culture is very difficult to understand. Cultures are formed through communication. Communication is the way humans are able to interact by which customs, roles, rules, rituals, laws, or other patterns are created and shared. Without communication, it would be impossible to keep and pass along cultural qualities from one place and time to another. Communication plays a vital role in the success of American Red Cross and helps to achieve the desired outcomes of this organization. Culture is created, shaped, passed, and learned through communication. Therefore, communication practices are largely created, shaped, and transmitted by culture. Communication is the only organizational process that has the power to inform, educate and bring about cooperation and ultimately the kind of individual behavior change that leads to powerful cultural change. The past, present and future of this organization, which reflect the culture, can only be preserved through various communication artifacts. If the culture needs to be changed, communication is the main tool around the change process (Reiley & Roberts, 2007). Misalignment and Perception Often, misalignment of espoused and enacted values affects the perception of American Red Cross. Misalignment of values causes frustration, anger, confusion and disengagment. Organization leaders talk about teamwork, but sometimes employees experience a different reality that some team members are better than others. A limited view of goals in this organization leads to efforts being ignored, unappreciated or even belittled. Conflict in Group Communication American Red Cross is composed of individuals that have different opinions, beliefs, and values that cause conflict. Conflict occurs within this organization when the organization’s differences are communicated. Conflict in group communication helps to bring clarity, vision, and direction. Therefore, group communication helps with unity of vision, clear directives, feedback, and challenges of the organization. Improving Communication Conflict allows us to listen for and understand what is felt and said. This is necessary in order to build strong relationships among those in the American Red Cross. Conflict improves communication by the ability to recognize and respond to vital matters, find ways to compromise, and a belief that solving the problem can support the interest and needs of others (Leavitt, 2000). Overall, conflict improves communication by building strong and better relationships, overcoming challenges, and being successful with work in life. Conclusion Finally, the awareness of the American Red Cross culture is necessary for continued diverse growth. In order to attract the best of the organization, a culture of diversity and open communication is needed. Once the American Red Cross has these qualities, it can improve efficiency and have more viewpoints to learn from. To make sure the organizational culture is compatible with the strategic goals of this organization, conflict must be beneficial to the overall improvement of communication in this organization and success will be guaranteed.