What type of communication occurs between different levels of an organizational hierarchy?

Vertical communication refers to the flow of information between different levels of an organizational hierarchy. This can include communication from top management to lower-level employees or vice versa. It is essential for ensuring that instructions, goals, and feedback can be conveyed effectively throughout the organization.

Vertical communication is crucial for maintaining a clear understanding of organizational objectives and helps in aligning lower-level employees with the strategic vision set by leadership. It typically involves formal channels, such as meetings, reports, and memos, which facilitate the exchange of necessary information across various levels of management and staff.

In contrast, horizontal communication occurs between peers or colleagues at the same level within the organization, while diagonal communication crosses both levels and departments but is less common. Informal communication, while important for relationships and culture, does not specifically refer to the structured exchange of information across different hierarchical levels. Thus, vertical communication is the most appropriate term for describing the interaction that takes place between various levels of an organization's hierarchy.