{"id":821,"date":"2021-11-08T15:06:44","date_gmt":"2021-11-08T15:06:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/?p=821"},"modified":"2025-10-22T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-22T00:00:00","slug":"downward-communication","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/downward-communication\/","title":{"rendered":"Downward Communication: A Leader\u2019s Guide to Building Alignment and Trust"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Picture yourself introducing a new workflow policy. You schedule a 20-minute video call and invite all the managers to announce the change. Before pressing the \u201c<em>End call<\/em>\u201d button, you remind the managers to pass the information down to their team members.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What could possibly go wrong?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Two weeks later, the IT department keeps violating the new policy, perhaps unknowingly. Are the managers the ones to blame, or is it on you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In all likelihood, somewhere during the process of passing the word down, key information slipped through the cracks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clearly, downward communication is more than just giving orders and hoping for the best. When done right, it provides:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Context,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Clarity, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Direction.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what are the common mistakes in downward communication, and why is it so important for a business?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ll cover these questions and more in our deep dive, starting with the foundations.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Downward-Communication_-A-Leaders-Guide-to-Building-Alignment-and-Trust-cover.jpg\" alt=\"Downward Communication_ A Leader\u2019s Guide to Building Alignment and Trust - cover\" class=\"wp-image-20205\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Downward-Communication_-A-Leaders-Guide-to-Building-Alignment-and-Trust-cover.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Downward-Communication_-A-Leaders-Guide-to-Building-Alignment-and-Trust-cover-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Downward-Communication_-A-Leaders-Guide-to-Building-Alignment-and-Trust-cover-1110x555.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Downward-Communication_-A-Leaders-Guide-to-Building-Alignment-and-Trust-cover-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Downward-Communication_-A-Leaders-Guide-to-Building-Alignment-and-Trust-cover-18x9.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list key-takeaways\">\n<li>Downward communication is the transference of important information from the higher levels of an organization to the lower parts of the company structure.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It\u2019s used in a wide range of organizational situations, including staff meetings, performance reviews, newsletters, and more.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unlike with upward communication \u2014 where the sources of information are employees communicating with managers and other higher-ups \u2014 downward communication flows follow the top-down direction. Consequently, employees often perceive the ways leadership and management communicate as overly rigid and unresponsive to feedback.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understanding the information you want to pass on to employees goes a long way in eliminating pain points. You learn to anticipate the questions different teams may have and can enlist managers with relevant expertise for help.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It is also important to use a communication app all employees feel comfortable using. This entails looking for features that promote fuss-free communication \u2014 like video conferencing, messaging, and channels \u2014 which you can leverage to establish feedback loops to monitor employee sentiment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-downward-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is downward communication?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Downward communication<\/strong>, also known as top-down communication, <strong>is<\/strong> <strong>the vertical process of transmitting a message or piece of information down the hierarchical ladder within an organization<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In short, downward communication takes place whenever a person in charge communicates a message to people in a lower-level position, such as managers. The managers\u2019 task is to then transfer the same message to their team members. The message reaches its final destination when the lowest member of the hierarchical ladder receives it.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This type of communication usually follows a strict hierarchical structure, similar to a pyramid. At first glance, it might seem like an unnecessarily rigid process, but this kind of information flow has its place in modern leadership communication and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/company-culture\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">company culture<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, imagine having to inform your employees of sweeping changes to the vacation policy. Scheduling a conference call with each employee is out of the question, even though <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/asynchronous-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">asynchronous communication<\/a> tools do come in handy. If only there was a way to inform a couple of people and further delegate the rest of the process\u2026&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Downward communication allows you to do just that.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Opting for downward communication proves helpful whenever there\u2019s a need to <strong>share key messages with everyone in your organization<\/strong>. It\u2019s crucial for many communication processes, from clarifying goals and sharing instructions to publishing reports and introducing changes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When handled with care, downward communication goes a long way in <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/align-team-with-company-goals\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ensuring employee alignment with organizational goals<\/a>. For best results, <strong>most companies strategically leverage both downward and upward flows to optimize <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/two-way-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>two-way communication.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 PUMBLE PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The sources of downward communication are typically individuals in positions of power, such as executives, CEOs, and top managers. Naturally, they all have to be well-versed in leadership communication to sustain the desired level of operational quality and efficiency. To learn more about the importance of leadership communication, head to this post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/communication-styles-for-leaders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Leadership Communication: Skills, Styles, &amp; Tips for Improvement&nbsp;<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-the-difference-between-downward-and-upward-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the difference between downward and upward communication?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Both <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-types\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication types<\/a> fall under the vertical communication category, although the direction of the <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-process\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication processes<\/a> is different.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In contrast to downward communication, where information travels down the vertical axis \u2014 from top management to lower-level employees \u2014 <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/upward-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>upward communication<\/strong><\/a><strong> involves employees communicating with their superiors.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As such, upward communication can take on many forms, from soliciting feedback and sharing opinions to offering fresh ideas to the management. On the other hand, <strong>downward communication is usually more directive and instructional<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, more often than not, instead of providing direction, top-down messages cause confusion. To see why downward communication breaks down, we\u2019ll look at a few practical examples.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 PUMBLE PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Upward and downward flows are only two possible subcategories of organizational communication. To learn more about further divisions and find more useful tips on improving workplace communication, read this blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/organizational-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What Is Organizational Communication? A Quick Guide to Types &amp; Strategies<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-features\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Empower team communication<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Discuss, share &amp; collaborate with Pumble, a team communication app.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-are-examples-of-downward-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are examples of downward communication?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Downward communication is <strong>an integral part of organizational communication<\/strong>. In practice, it includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Official policies and procedures,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Company announcements,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/performance-review-template\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Performance reviews<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Job instructions,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/employee-onboarding-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Employee onboarding<\/a> documents,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/how-to-write-business-memo\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Memos<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Staff meetings,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/all-hands-meeting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">All-hands meetings<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Newsletters, and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>What do the above examples all have in common? Apart from meetings, they <strong>don\u2019t leave much opportunity for employee feedback<\/strong>. That means that management is in the dark about the challenges employees face and thus unable to provide the necessary support.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Additionally, the effectiveness of downward communication depends on the <strong>clarity of key messages<\/strong>. If, for example, the format and content of the message is vague, employees likely won\u2019t have clear instructions on what they\u2019re supposed to do. All of this negatively impacts trust in leadership, which can lead to devastating consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"the-importance-of-downward-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The importance of downward communication<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/corpgov.law.harvard.edu\/2023\/04\/30\/trust-survey-key-findings-and-lessons-for-business-executives\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">newer findings and trust surveys<\/a>, <strong>92% of business leaders and 94% of employees believe that organizations have a professional duty to <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/building-trust-in-virtual-teams\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>build trust<\/strong><\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And when that doesn\u2019t happen? Productivity is the first to take the hit, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pwc.com\/us\/en\/library\/trust-in-business-survey.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">PwC\u2019s 2024 Trust Survey<\/a> showed that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>42% of executives believe that <strong>productivity<\/strong> wanes without employee trust,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>41% of leaders fear that the <strong>quality of services and products<\/strong> diminishes without trust, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>40% of executives claim that a lack of trust in leadership negatively affects <strong>operational efficiency<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These stats show that <strong>the importance of downward communication cannot be overstated when it comes to building trust in leadership<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/internal-communication-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">internal communication strategy<\/a> fails to provide employees with support and clarity, you risk something even worse than people quitting. They may still show up to work but start performing their duties in a sluggish and passive manner. And <a href=\"https:\/\/clockify.me\/blog\/workforce-management\/quiet-quitting\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">quiet-quitting<\/a> is definitely a phenomenon you\u2019ll want to weed out of the workplace.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what\u2019s the solution? How do you ensure that your downward communication:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Achieves consistent messaging and alignment, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/how-to-boost-productivity-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Increases productivity<\/a> and employee satisfaction?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s take a look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"how-to-make-downward-communication-successful\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to make downward communication successful&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here is our <strong>7-step process for making downward communication more effective.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-1-make-sure-you-understand-the-information\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #1: Make sure you understand the information&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Productive work occurs when employees fully understand the relayed messages.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before they can get to work, though, you should ensure you\u2019re thoroughly familiar with the relevant material. This doesn\u2019t mean directors, executives, and managers have to be experts in every business subject. Rather, it means knowing when to <strong>bring in a fresh set of eyes<\/strong> for a different perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, should your company be planning major changes to benefits policies, an HR officer will probably have valuable insight. Not only are they in regular contact with employees, but they also know which benefits matter the most.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consequently, the HR officer will most likely be able to anticipate the questions<strong> <\/strong>employees will have about the upcoming shift. Following their advice, you\u2019ll <strong>gain a deeper knowledge of the news<\/strong> itself and be able to<strong> include more detailed explanations<\/strong> in your briefing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To ensure no critical information gets overlooked, <strong>take notes of the points you want to highlight in a <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/best-team-communication-tools\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>team communication tool such as Pumble<\/strong><\/a><strong> by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"876\" height=\"824\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-notes-in-your-personal-DM-space-in-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Save notes in your personal DM space in Pumble, a business messaging app\u00a0\" class=\"wp-image-20206\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-notes-in-your-personal-DM-space-in-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app0D0A0D0A.png 876w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-notes-in-your-personal-DM-space-in-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app0D0A0D0A-319x300.png 319w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-notes-in-your-personal-DM-space-in-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app0D0A0D0A-768x722.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-notes-in-your-personal-DM-space-in-Pumble-a-business-messaging-app0D0A0D0A-13x12.png 13w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 876px) 100vw, 876px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Save notes in your personal DM space in Pumble, a business messaging app&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>After making an official announcement, you could even <strong>post a summary in a company-wide channel <\/strong>in your <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/business-messaging-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">business messaging app<\/a>. Pinning this message goes one step further in enhancing its visibility, as all channel members will have easy access to the info whenever they need to reference the news.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1115\" height=\"824\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-and-pin-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Save and pin messages in Pumble\" class=\"wp-image-20207\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-and-pin-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png 1115w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-and-pin-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-406x300.png 406w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-and-pin-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-1110x820.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-and-pin-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-768x568.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Save-and-pin-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-16x12.png 16w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1115px) 100vw, 1115px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Save and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/help\/using-pumble\/messages\/pin-messages\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pin messages<\/a> in Pumble<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Try Pumble by CAKE.com for free<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-2-be-clear-and-informative\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #2: Be clear and informative<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply making an announcement isn\u2019t enough. The <strong>content of the message should be clear and informative<\/strong>, eliminating any vagueness that could lead to misinterpretation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ambiguity is the gateway to frustration, and <strong>frustrated employees looking to blow off some steam will fall back on the rumour mill<\/strong>. Now, <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/grapevine-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">grapevine communication<\/a> \u2014 which usually doesn\u2019t follow workplace communication rules \u2014 isn\u2019t bad by default. It\u2019s just not the most effective way of transmitting official information. Plus, once the rumour mill gets going, it\u2019s hard to stop, and it\u2019s not long before misinformation seeps into every corner of the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You don\u2019t have to wait for the worst-case scenario. As long as you <strong>keep your messages<\/strong> \u2014 whether verbal or written \u2014 <strong>succinct and easily understandable<\/strong>, negative emotions won\u2019t cloud your employees\u2019 judgement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overly complicated jargon can muddy the water, so <strong>stick to simple language<\/strong> employees across the organizational hierarchy are familiar with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, using <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/industry-jargon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">business jargon<\/a> makes sense when speaking to the board of directors, but will it have the same effect when communicating with staff? Probably not. In this case, saying that the company wants to \u201cchange the main direction of its operations\u201d is a more suitable fit than declaring it will \u201cshift the paradigm.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The same goes for other <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/annoying-corporate-buzzwords\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">corporate buzzwords<\/a>. With the right audience, they can add substance to the conversation. However, for most teams who don\u2019t have daily contact with top management and executives, such language may look like an attempt to deliberately conceal the core message.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kimberly Janson, a global executive and coach, shared with Forbes two questions that help her <a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/councils\/forbescoachescouncil\/2021\/05\/06\/the-power-of-simplicity-how-to-avoid-over-complicating-things-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">keep things simple<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>\u201cIs it short enough to put it on a bumper sticker?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>\u201cWould my 95-year-old mother be able to understand this?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>The moment you make your words plain and simple, the true meaning behind them comes to light.<em>&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-light pumble-gradient-templates\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Reliable team communication<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Boost productivity and empower your team with an all-around communication app.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-3-choose-the-appropriate-communication-method\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #3: Choose the appropriate communication method<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The type of message you want to pass down will determine your choice of <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-channels\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication channel<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One factor that can help you narrow your options is reviewing <strong>the complexity of the news<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s say the <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/teams\/marketing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">marketing team<\/a> is shifting from a weekly to a bi-weekly report schedule. A quick meeting or even a group chat with the relevant managers is an effective official announcement.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, scheduling a company-wide meeting is probably the wrong move, as employees from other departments \u2014 like finance and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/solutions\/software-development\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">software development<\/a> \u2014 won\u2019t have much use for that information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees on the marketing team, however, will definitely appreciate hearing the news from their direct managers. <strong>Learning of new policies or changes from a direct supervisor sends a message that leadership trusts managers with a decent share of power and autonomy<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This signals that employees can trust their leaders to steer them in the right direction. Conversely, hearing about minor changes and shifts directly from top executives can have the opposite effect. It can look like an attempt to bypass middle management, undermining the cohesion managers have built with their teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regulating workplace communication, and ensuring everyone understands how information is shared, is easier in <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/team-communication-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">team communication apps<\/a> like Pumble by CAKE.com.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"807\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/One-app-plenty-of-communication-features-\u2014-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"One app, plenty of communication features \u2014 Pumble\" class=\"wp-image-20208\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/One-app-plenty-of-communication-features-\u2014-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/One-app-plenty-of-communication-features-\u2014-Pumble0D0A0D0A-446x300.png 446w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/One-app-plenty-of-communication-features-\u2014-Pumble0D0A0D0A-1110x746.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/One-app-plenty-of-communication-features-\u2014-Pumble0D0A0D0A-768x516.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/One-app-plenty-of-communication-features-\u2014-Pumble0D0A0D0A-18x12.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">One app, plenty of communication features \u2014 Pumble<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Unlike email, which can weaken transparency and hide important updates, Pumble is built with <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/transparent-communication-in-flexible-work-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">transparent communication<\/a> in mind. From direct messaging and group chats to <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/video-conferencing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">video conferencing<\/a> and scheduled messages, Pumble has the capability to connect employees working across all levels of an organization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Improve team communication with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-4-encourage-questions-solicit-feedback\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #4: Encourage questions &amp; solicit feedback<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another positive aspect of using an <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/employee-communication-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">employee communication app<\/a> is how simple it is to <strong>encourage direct feedback<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"619\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Step-away-from-emails-embrace-fuss-free-communication-with-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Step away from emails &amp; embrace fuss-free communication with Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20209\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Step-away-from-emails-embrace-fuss-free-communication-with-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Step-away-from-emails-embrace-fuss-free-communication-with-Pumble0D0A0D0A-582x300.png 582w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Step-away-from-emails-embrace-fuss-free-communication-with-Pumble0D0A0D0A-1110x573.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Step-away-from-emails-embrace-fuss-free-communication-with-Pumble0D0A0D0A-768x396.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Step-away-from-emails-embrace-fuss-free-communication-with-Pumble0D0A0D0A-18x9.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Step away from emails &amp; embrace fuss-free communication with Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Think about the days when executives would shoot an email to managers and expect that everything would be smooth sailing thereafter. In reality, the manager likely had to navigate a barrage of questions and responses from employees. And not all of that feedback would travel upward back to the source.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1051\" height=\"824\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Solicit-feedback-during-group-calls-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Solicit feedback during group calls in Pumble, a business communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20210\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Solicit-feedback-during-group-calls-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png 1051w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Solicit-feedback-during-group-calls-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-383x300.png 383w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Solicit-feedback-during-group-calls-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-768x602.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Solicit-feedback-during-group-calls-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-15x12.png 15w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1051px) 100vw, 1051px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Solicit feedback during <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/group-meetings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">group calls<\/a> in Pumble, a business communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>With Pumble by CAKE.com as your <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/pumble-as-email-alternative\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">email alternative<\/a>, you open up opportunities for immediate feedback. For example, restructuring teams after a merger often involves expanding employees\u2019 roles and responsibilities. A message listing all the new changes is hardly sufficient to cover the necessary details.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But a <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/pumble\/pumble-video-conferencing-how-its-changing-the-way-we-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">video conference<\/a> during which participants can ask questions in real time or send questions in the in-meeting chat is a move that will quell employees\u2019 fears.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similarly, you might choose to <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/screen-sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">share your screen<\/a> and show a presentation outlining future plans. This visual element can spark further discussions and reveal employee sentiment about the organization\u2019s approach to the transition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ditch email, try Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1057\" height=\"824\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-your-screen-send-messages-use-reactions-and-raise-your-hand-during-meetings0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Share your screen, send messages, use reactions, and raise your hand during meetings\" class=\"wp-image-20211\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-your-screen-send-messages-use-reactions-and-raise-your-hand-during-meetings0D0A0D0A.png 1057w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-your-screen-send-messages-use-reactions-and-raise-your-hand-during-meetings0D0A0D0A-385x300.png 385w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-your-screen-send-messages-use-reactions-and-raise-your-hand-during-meetings0D0A0D0A-768x599.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-your-screen-send-messages-use-reactions-and-raise-your-hand-during-meetings0D0A0D0A-15x12.png 15w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1057px) 100vw, 1057px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Share your screen, send messages, use reactions, and raise your hand during meetings<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Feedback is especially useful for refining a company\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/planning-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">internal communication strategy<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Negative feedback doesn\u2019t automatically equal negative feelings<\/strong>. Rather, it is often an employee&#8217;s attempt to voice concerns and offer alternative solutions to a current issue.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lending someone a virtual ear \u2014 through messages, calls, or <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/threads\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">threads<\/a> \u2014 is the first step in <strong>establishing feedback loops that strengthen <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/pumble\/team-collaboration-with-pumble-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>team collaboration<\/strong><\/a>. Take what your employees are saying into account and use that feedback to improve organizational processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 PUMBLE PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more information on the importance of feedback in business collaboration, read the articles below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/remote-constructive-feedback\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Give Constructive Feedback in the Workplace: Best Examples and Tips<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/feedback-vs-feedforward\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Feedback vs Feedforward: Moving From Feedback to Feedforward<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-5-store-the-information\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #5: Store the information<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead of relying on your team\u2019s ability to keep all the data in their minds, it\u2019s always better to put your words into writing. As we\u2019ve noted, emails get buried or deleted, and in <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/hybrid-remote-work-models\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remote work<\/a>, that means loss of critical info.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, make it a point to <strong>commit everything to (virtual) memory<\/strong>. Whenever there\u2019s a change to the company\u2019s formal procedures and policies, create a separate document that stores all the adjustments and post it in a shared channel. That way, employees affected by the changes will easily stay in the loop.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"676\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-files-in-Pumble-a-team-collaboration-software0D0A0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Share files in Pumble, a team collaboration software\" class=\"wp-image-20212\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-files-in-Pumble-a-team-collaboration-software0D0A0D0A0D0A.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-files-in-Pumble-a-team-collaboration-software0D0A0D0A0D0A-533x300.png 533w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-files-in-Pumble-a-team-collaboration-software0D0A0D0A0D0A-1110x625.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-files-in-Pumble-a-team-collaboration-software0D0A0D0A0D0A-768x433.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Share-files-in-Pumble-a-team-collaboration-software0D0A0D0A0D0A-18x10.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Share files in Pumble, a team collaboration software<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The same goes for <strong>employee handbooks<\/strong>, <strong>meeting recordings<\/strong>, <strong>official documents<\/strong>, and <strong>other files<\/strong> and <strong>messages<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/document-sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">share your files<\/a> without worrying about losing sight of them \u2014 Pumble\u2019s search bar will help you and every employee retrieve what you need using just a few keywords.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter how many messages you send, you can come back to them, thanks to the<strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/knowledge-sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>unlimited messaging history<\/strong><\/a>. And employees \u2014 regardless of their position in the organizational hierarchy \u2014 can return to important messages whenever the need arises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get unlimited messaging history with Pumble, free forever<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-6-be-honest\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #6: Be honest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Downward communication sometimes puts you at risk of being the bearer of bad news, especially during periods of significant change or crisis.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, if you embrace this role without a carefully thought-out <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-plans\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication plan<\/a>, you run the risk of grapevine communication overpowering business discussions. When the employees sense a crucial change is around the corner but don\u2019t have ample details on the issue, they are more likely to turn to guesswork and gossiping.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To prevent speculation from escalating, <strong>always prioritize honesty<\/strong>. Being transparent and open when communicating change and negative outcomes is what guarantees your employees will stick with you through thick and thin.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from that, by eliminating suspicion,<strong> your words gain greater value<\/strong>, further improving your downward communication flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83d\udca1 PUMBLE PRO TIP<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Change and crisis management are important parts of leadership communication. To find out more about both, head to the below resources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/change-communications\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Change Communications: How to Best to Communicate Change at the Workplace<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/crisis-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">What Is Crisis Communication: Strategies &amp; Examples for Effective Planning<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/crisis-communication-templates\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Making a Crisis Communication Plan (+ Crisis Communication Templates)<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-landing-1\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Make communication easier<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Simplify team communication and collaborate more effectively. Try Pumble by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-stretch \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"step-7-reduce-information-overload\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #7: Reduce information overload<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Channels in <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/workplace-chat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">workplace communication apps<\/a> help get the word out, but that doesn\u2019t guarantee employees will engage with the messages.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For one, they might be overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of posts and messages coming through. Plus, <strong>quantity doesn\u2019t equal quality<\/strong> \u2014 and employees won\u2019t relate to information that doesn\u2019t affect their teams or positions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To turn down excess noise and reduce information overload, start with message formatting, especially if your workplace leans heavily on <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/solutions\/remote-work\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remote communication<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"314\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Format-your-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Format your messages in Pumble\" class=\"wp-image-20215\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Format-your-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Format-your-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-730x191.png 730w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Format-your-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-1110x290.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Format-your-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-768x201.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Format-your-messages-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-18x5.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Format your messages in Pumble<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Bolding parts of your message can <strong>bring extra attention to key information<\/strong>, as can emojis and words such as:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Update,&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/reminders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Reminder<\/strong><\/a><strong>,&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Action, <\/strong>or<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Deadline.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>But even with the format sorted out, how do you make sure the news reaches relevant employees, and not those who\u2019ll find it unhelpful?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One solution is<strong> mentions and <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/user-groups\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>user groups<\/strong><\/a>, which help you ping (think of it as a virtual nudge) individual users or groups of people.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"770\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Structure-teams-with-user-groups-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Structure teams with user groups in Pumble\" class=\"wp-image-20216\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Structure-teams-with-user-groups-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Structure-teams-with-user-groups-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-468x300.png 468w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Structure-teams-with-user-groups-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-1110x712.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Structure-teams-with-user-groups-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-768x493.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Structure-teams-with-user-groups-in-Pumble0D0A0D0A-18x12.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Structure teams with user groups in Pumble<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Build stronger teams in Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, the mentioned users all receive an instant alert informing them to open a file or message that concerns them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Channels are an additional way to create smaller, more targeted audiences<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"468\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Work-in-public-and-private-channels0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Work in public and private channels\u00a0\" class=\"wp-image-20217\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Work-in-public-and-private-channels0D0A0D0A.png 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Work-in-public-and-private-channels0D0A0D0A-730x285.png 730w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Work-in-public-and-private-channels0D0A0D0A-1110x433.png 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Work-in-public-and-private-channels0D0A0D0A-768x300.png 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Work-in-public-and-private-channels0D0A0D0A-18x7.png 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Work in public and private channels&nbsp;<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>They can be either <strong>private (invite-only) or shared (open to all workspace users)<\/strong>. As a general rule, organizations reserve shared channels like #general or #announcements for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Long-form documents,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Detailed news, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Process and policy updates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>All of the above refer to things that will likely impact at least a majority (if not all) employees within an organization.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"762\" height=\"824\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Activity-in-a-private-Pumble-channel0D0A0D0A.png\" alt=\"Activity in a private Pumble channel\" class=\"wp-image-20218\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Activity-in-a-private-Pumble-channel0D0A0D0A.png 762w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Activity-in-a-private-Pumble-channel0D0A0D0A-277x300.png 277w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Activity-in-a-private-Pumble-channel0D0A0D0A-11x12.png 11w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 762px) 100vw, 762px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Activity in a private Pumble channel<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Organize work with Pumble channels<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But when you want to narrow down the scope of your downward communication and inform only a particular group, private team or project channels are good for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Project announcements,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Event invites,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Business strategy changes,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Advice,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reminders, and more.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking all of this into account, Pumble not only makes it<strong> easy to <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/pumble\/how-to-organize-channels-in-pumble\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>organize channels<\/strong><\/a><strong> <\/strong>but also to <strong>create a communication environment employees appreciate<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"try-pumble-by-cake-com-improve-company-conversations\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Try Pumble by CAKE.com &amp; improve company conversations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Downward communication, although necessary, sometimes inadvertently leads to detachment. The feeling is two-fold \u2014 employees feel disconnected from their organization and its mission, while leadership seems inaccessible and invisible.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Pumble acts as the connective thread that unites all levels of an organization.<\/strong> It\u2019s an easy-to-use communication app that houses its most useful features in the sidebar, so even non-technical teams can quickly get in the loop.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, as many companies source talent from different parts of the globe, it has become increasingly important to combine audio calls, messaging, and video conferencing in a single platform \u2014 and that\u2019s exactly what Pumble does.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For leadership and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/communication-tips-from-successful-remote-managers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">remote managers<\/a> leveraging these features, data security and privacy are a top concern. After all, you don\u2019t want your downward communication flow to leak outside of the company.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fortunately, Pumble is committed to keeping your workspace private and secure, backed by <strong>ISO 27001 and SOC 2 certifications.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t wait for cracks to show to start working smarter. Start strengthening your business communication today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get started with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Downward communication flows from the top of an organization to its lower levels. Read on to learn why it matters and what you can do to improve it.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":20203,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-821","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-communication-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/821","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=821"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/821\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23310,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/821\/revisions\/23310"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20203"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=821"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=821"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=821"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}