Among the many organizational and individual factors that can influence the effectiveness of business communication, social status is one of the most challenging to address. Social status refers to the relative rank or standing that an individual has in the eyes of others. Position in the organization's hierarchy, background, education, reputation, and power all contribute to those perceptions of prestige.
There are two elements of social status—those attributes we are born with and those we achieve. Ascribed status is determined at birth and includes characteristics such as sex, age, race, ethnic group, and family background. Achieved status is what an individual acquires as a result of the exercise of knowledge, ability, talent, skill, and/or perseverance. Employment and occupation are primary factors in social status, and one's role in an organization is especially relevant within the boundaries of that organization.
Implications of Social Status on Communication
People often have difficulty navigating status differences when trying to inform or persuade others. To many, social status is an indicator of credibility and legitimacy, and this effects how seriously others take what one communicates. Key elements that are involved in an audience's evaluation include title, reputation, and the extent to which people can identify with the communicator's motives and objectives. Status differences can create a bias against those with the perceived lower status. For example, a junior or lower-level employee asked to make a presentation to a group of more senior upper-level managers may have difficulty keeping their attention at first even if his information and presentation skills are solid. Outsider status can also be a challenge in communication. This is commonly experienced by salespeople, vendors, and even potential employees.
Rank affects communication
In the military and other organizations, the status of members affects communication.
In such situations, those with perceived lower status need to build good will by demonstrating competence and reliability and identifying with common interests.