Business Communications

Course ID: COM-101

Audience
Adult Continuing Education and High School Programs

Course Description
People who have good communication skills have a real advantage in the workplace. That's because everyone within an organization ought to communicate well with others if they wish to be successful. This course focuses on verbal forms of communication: speaking, listening, and nonverbal. This course provides students with the information and practice they need to communicate effectively in a variety of business settings.

Media
large print, braille, cassette, digital talking book and online

Organization
six lessons

Credit
1/2 Carnegie Unit for high school students who complete both Business Communications and Business Writing

Prerequisites
solid English writing skills
OR
completion of Business Writing BBS-202

Overview
Students submit six assignments. They complete the assignments in the medium of their choice, except Part 2 of the last assignment. Students are required to submit Part 2 of Assignment 6 in an audio format (cassette or electronic file).

Grading
letter grades

Objectives and Content

After completing Lesson 1, students will be able to
a.       explain the principles of effective communication
b.      describe the components of effective work relationships
c.       apply ORATOR to your business communications

After completing Lesson 2, students will be able to
a.       discuss characteristics of successful speakers
b.      describe good listening skills
c.       explain nonverbal communication
d.      apply the ORATOR principles to basic communication skills

After completing Lesson 3, students will be able to
a.       explain group dynamics as it applies to the workplace
b.      discuss diversity in the workplace
c.       apply ORATOR to group dynamics

After completing Lesson 4, students will be able to
a.       discuss working in teams
b.      describe the components of successful meetings
c.       explain how effective communications can help resolve difficult meeting situations
d.      apply the ORATOR principles to teamwork

After completing Lesson 5, students will be able to
a.       describe conflict management techniques
b.      discuss appropriate and inappropriate communications
c.       apply the ORATOR principles to workplace conflict

After completing Lesson 6, students will be able to
a.       describe giving and receiving feedback
b.      examine persuasion and negotiation
c.       discuss business communication skills used by successful leaders
d.      apply the ORATOR principles to advanced business communication skills