Money talks: Interpersonal communication between micro-credit field worker and loan recipients in rural Bangladesh

This study is an exploratory analysis of interpersonal communication between field workers and loan recipients in two leading micro-credit organizations in Bangladesh. It seeks to describe the nature and quality of interpersonal communication between loan recipients and micro-credit field workers and relate effective communication practices to empowerment of loan recipients. Analysis focuses on communicative actions in the development of loan recipient values which are directly and indirectly supported by the field worker as well as the role of discipline and commitment in investment success and gender issues that arise out of this power-based interaction. The study concludes that a strong relationship exists between field workers and loan recipients affects the self-identity and commitment levels of the borrowers which contributes directly to micro-credit organization success. The lack of organizational support offered to field workers to strengthen their interpersonal communication skills, knowledge and attitudes suggests that this relationship and its effects can be strengthened further through individual and group training.