ABSTRACT
Upward communication is the means by which information is sent up the chain of command. Upward communication involves communicating the following from below: employee achievements, progress, and plans; unresolved work problems with which employees might need help; feedback to the supervisor about his or her behavior; suggestions and ideas for improvement; and employees feelings about their jobs, associates, and the organization (Rue & Byars, 1995). Upward communication is one of the more important communication channels. It is important for managers and followers, as well as for optimal organizational functioning. The “subordinate-to-superior network is extremely important for organizational health, and it is an aspect of communication that however difficult, must be dealt with to improve the functioning of the organization” (Zaremba, 1993, p. 44). Employees, as well as lower level managers, have important perspectives on organizational issues, valuable expertise, and valuable feedback for managers about ways in which they can improve their management style and effectiveness. Feedback can also act as an early warning system about potential problems and grievances. Kassing and Armstrong (2002), for example, found that individuals with concerns regarding unethical conduct or issues that could result in potential harm will seek the attention of the media or regulatory bodies if supervisors or organizational officials fail to acknowledge their issues.
