Which communication method is used to provide employees feedback on their performance?

The correct choice is the method of downward communication, which is essential in providing employees with feedback on their performance. This type of communication flows from higher levels of an organization, such as managers or supervisors, to lower levels, which includes employees or team members.

Downward communication serves several purposes, including giving instructions, setting expectations, and offering performance reviews. When managers communicate feedback regarding an employee's performance, they are effectively utilizing downward communication to ensure the employee understands their strengths and areas for improvement. This feedback loop is critical for employee development, motivation, and maintaining alignment with organizational goals.

In contrast, horizontal communication occurs between peers at the same organizational level, which is more about collaboration and sharing information, rather than providing performance feedback. Upward communication involves feedback being sent from lower levels to higher levels, typically focusing on issues, suggestions, or concerns rather than performance assessments. Diagonal communication crosses both levels and departments, allowing for more informal exchange but does not specifically focus on performance feedback.