There are many important business communication skills, such as:
- Ethical communication
- Creating messages designed for one’s audience
- Intercultural sensitivity
- Constructive feedback – giving and receiving
- Business etiquette
- Using technology
1. Ethical Communication
Dictionary.com (2011) defines ethics as “the rules of conduct recognized in respect to a particular class of human actions or a particular group” (para. 2), such as business ethics. Ethical business communication provides the audience with all needed information and without deception.
Ethical communication is not always easy to define, but always involves doing the right thing for all stakeholders. In business, ethical communicators give credit to others for ideas and contributions, present facts and figures in a clear and easy to understand manner, and avoid exaggeration or distortion of data.
2. Audience-Centered Messages
Implementing as audience-centered approach to business communication means focusing on the audience the message is intended for rather than the individual or department sending the message. Audience-centered messages present information in a clear, easy to read format, highlight main points, provide links or resources for additional information, and invite feedback.
For example, an audience-centered message designed to announce a revised employee benefit package would present the audience with all needed information, such as the difference between the old and new packages, and change in cost to employees, effective dates, and who to contact for more information.
3. Business Etiquette
One’s conduct can have a profound effect, for better or for worse, on one’s career and the success of one’s organization. Professional conduct that promotes the organization and aligns with the company’s vision and values is a basic expectation of employers. Bovèe and Thill (2010) summarize the central principles of business etiquette as “respect, courtesy, and common sense” (p. 20). These principles help one to navigate through most situations, even when mistakes are made. Asking questions to ensure complete understanding shows respect for others and a desire to understand the communication.
Effective communication is attainable when the three critical communication skills of ethical communication, audience-centered messages, and business etiquette are applied.
References:
Bovée, C. & Thill, J. (2010). Business communication essentials: A skills-based approach to vital business English (4th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall.
Dictionary.com. (2011). Ethics. Retrieved from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/ethics
