Asking Management About Their Communication Preferences

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When one begins a new job, should one directly ask management about their communication preferences?

I have rarely seen this issue addressed during training: it virtually only comes up after there is an issue.

Examples:

1. Do you prefer that this be dealt with by the front line, or referred to you? Should I call you literally "anytime" (like you said) to deal with something?

I have had a manager who just wanted to be called "if the place is on fire". These were his exact words. He did, however, want a note left about any incidents.

On the other hand, I have had others who wanted to know every little thing that happened, even logging on from home to do things themselves.

2. Before transferring someone, should I call and tell you what it's about first?

I have read in books that this is the proper protocol, but I have never seen it in practice.

3. Do you prefer email, phone call, a paper message, or should it just be logged in the log book?

I think this is a very good idea, especially when you're new. (Any organization will cut people a little slack when they're learning the ropes.) It shows you're interested in doing a good job and want to follow standard procedure. (I'd preface my questions by saying, "Every organization is a little different, so I just want to make sure I know your preferences here about how you'd like things done.")