Workplace Rhetoric

This chapter explores workplace rhetoric, emphasizing that success requires more than just job performance; it also involves understanding organizational dynamics and communication. The text examines organizational culture, defined by shared values, norms, and practices and how rhetoric shapes and reflects this culture through language, symbols, and rituals. It also discusses power structures, both formal (seen in organizational charts, flat or hierarchical) and informal, identifying six types of power and offering rhetorical strategies for gaining influence. Finally, the chapter addresses communication channels, highlighting the rhetorical considerations of different mediums such as email, instant messaging, and face-to-face interaction, and discusses the rhetorical significance of formal communication events such as performance reviews and meetings.