GEB 2214 - Business Communications

College of Business

Credit(s): 3
Contact Hours: 47
Effective Term Fall 2019 (565)

Course Description

Students who successfully complete this course develop the written and oral communications skills needed to function effectively in a business environment. Emphasis is placed on communicating professionally in written correspondence, electronic communications, job applications and interviews, and business presentations and reports. It is recommended that the student possess office application and communication skills before attempting this course. A webcam is required for online students. (Note: This course has substantial writing and presentation requirements).

Learning Outcomes and Objectives

  1. The student will exhibit the foundational skills of written business communications, including the fundamentals of effective writing and basic patterns of business letters, by
    1. preparing documents that are clearly written using effective sentence construction and paragraph design.
    2. applying proofreading and editing processes to produce exemplary documents.
    3. developing answers to routine business letters and inquiries professionally and effectively.
    4. discussing information resources available to support business communications.
  2. The student will compose business communications utilizing current technology, software and office applications, by
    1. applying knowledge of graphic aids or graphic programs to include appropriate visuals in a presentation and in a written report.
    2. preparing effective and professional communications utilizing electronic formats and technologies.
  3. The student will effectively employ strategic and persuasive techniques in oral and written communications by
    1. applying knowledge of sales and persuasive techniques and implementing emotional appeal effectively.
    2. applying indirect means to convey bad news.
    3. using attention devices effectively in written and oral communications.
    4. selecting the most appropriate appeal for the specific audience.
  4. The student will practice effective job application and interviewing skills by
    1. compiling a strong resume that is visually appealing, complete, clear, well-organized and tailored to job descriptions.
    2. constructing a well-organized cover letter that is concise and skillfully markets student’s abilities and experience.
    3. applying good interviewing and listening techniques.
  5. The student will prepare an engaging and well-organized business report by
    1. stating a problem or proposal objectively in written form; and listing the factors that are to be considered and evaluated for a productive resolution or recommendation.
    2. applying data gathering and research skills to support business recommendations.
    3. organizing information in outline form using time, place, quantity, factor, or a combination of these as bases for division.
    4. presenting information in written reports such that it is clearly stated and engaging.
  6. The student will exhibit the critical communication skills necessary for effective and professional business interactions in the workplace by
    1. demonstrating the ability to apply effective listening and interpersonal skills to achieve effective communication
    2. applying techniques for participating in meetings and collaborating in teams.
  7. The student will demonstrate effective speaking techniques in an oral presentation by
    1. preparing a class or video presentation using graphic aids and technology to effectively display information and data on a topic related to business.
    2. describing how personal aspects, audience analysis, feedback, and use of visuals contribute to formal presentations.
    3. using physical appearance, posture, facial expression, gestures, and voice quality in effective formal and informal oral business communication.

Criteria Performance Standard

Standard grading scale

History of Changes

C&I Approval: 05/31/2013, BOT Approval: 08/05/2013, Effective Term: Spring 2014 (480).
C&I Approval: , BOT Approval: , Effective Term: Fall 2019 (565)

Related Programs

  1. Business Administration (BUS-AS) (670) (Active)
  2. Business Development and Entrepreneurship (BUSENTR-CT) (585) (Active)
  3. Business Management (BUSADM-CT) (670) (Active)
  4. Business Operations - Marketing (MKT-CT) (505) (Active)
  5. Production Systems Management (PROSYS-AS) (645) (Active)
  6. Risk Management and Insurance Management (RISKMGT-CT) (595) (Active)
  7. Supply Chain and Logistics (SCM-CT) (585) (Active)