Business and Professional Communication: A Practical Guide to Workplace Effectiveness

The authors present the fundamentals of business communication in every stage of professional life: writing résumés, preparing for interviews, securing a job, communicating with colleagues and supervisors, working on a team, and advancing into management and leadership positions. Young and Travis encourage people building careers to create an image or brand that employers will recognize as a good fit for their companies. Skills that cement an appealing brand include: proficient use of language (verbal and written), problem-solving abilities, expert use of technology and social media, enthusiasm for work and people, a moral and ethical foundation, the ability to adapt quickly to new ideas, and being a role model for others. Chapter discussions include practical advice on developing these skills. The journey to a satisfying career begins with self-assessment. Readers are prompted to analyze their communication strengths and weaknesses. The chapters offer guidance on how to reinforce strong points and to work on eliminating shortcomings. Effective communicators expand listening skills to enhance their ability to adapt verbal and nonverbal communication to the needs of clients and colleagues in a diverse, global workplace. The authors provide meaningful advice on gender communication, image management, intercultural communication, and communicating in difficult situations. Competent communication is critical to establishing good rapport and creating a positive work environment.