What is upward communication?

• A. Passing messages from the top to the bottom
• B. Passing messages from the bottom to the top
• C. Exchange of information between people at different organizations
• D. Communication with external authorities

Answer: (B)

Upward communication is the flow of information from employees to managers. It lets staff report on how things are really working, raise concerns, share feedback, and propose ideas that those higher up need to know to make informed decisions. This two-way channel helps management understand on-the-ground realities and respond effectively, improving planning and morale. It contrasts with downward communication, which moves from managers to staff, and with horizontal or external communication, which involves peers at the same level or interactions outside the organization. The description that matches upward communication is messages moving from the bottom to the top.