Evelyn Smith
COM 530
October 8, 2010
Organizational Behavior and Communication Paper This paper discusses the culture of the American Red Cross, noting whether the organization’s values align with espoused or enacted values. Also covered will be to what extent is communication in the American Red Cross determined by its organizations culture. Communication plays a fundamental role in perception and organizational culture. Perception among the American Red Cross organization may cause misalignment between espoused values and enacted values. Conflict tends to improve communication among and within groups, therefore allowing the organization to be more …show more content…
The American Red Cross appointed Marsha Johnson Evans as a president and CEO in 2002 (Austin, 2010) Conflict in Group Communication American Red Cross could use conflict in improve communication. Conflict is often thought of as a negative. A group without conflict is a group that is trying to avoid conflict. Valuable ideas and concerns are not voice for fear of confrontation or worse termination. Donations made to the Red Cross specifically for the September 11victims and their families amounted in $1 billion. The group drew criticism, however, over a proposal to use some donations for a blood bank reserve instead of it all going to the families of those killed and injured in the attacks. Amid the controversy, Healy was given her walking papers (Austin, 2010). A proposal how to use some of the money not all of the money lead to Dr. Bernadine Healy termination. Conflict in the organization has led to the change of leadership. There have also been some changes in policy and procedures. In conclusion, American Red Cross is one of the largest and oldest organizations around. The organization was established in 1881with a strong organizational culture. Red Cross culture does not welcome conflict. Conflict in addressed within the organization. The organization cannot afford to receive another fine from the government or lose the respect of the people. Perception is