Will I really have to write? LO 1-1 Yes. A lot. Claims that people can get by without writing are flawed. Claim 1: Secretaries will do all my writing. Reality: Because of automation and restructuring, secretaries and administrative assistants are likely to handle complex tasks such as training, research, and database management for several managers. Managers are likely to take care of their own writing, data entry, and phone calls. 12 Claim 2: I’ll use form letters or templates when I need to write. Reality: A form letter is a prewritten fill-in-the-blank letter designed to fit standard situations. Using a form letter is OK if it’s a good letter. But form letters cover only routine situa- tions. The higher you rise, the more frequently you’ll face situations that aren’t routine and that demand creative solutions. Claim 3: I’m being hired as an accountant, not a writer. Reality: Almost every entry-level professional or managerial job requires you to write e-mail messages, speak to small groups, and write paper documents. People who do these things well are more likely to be promoted beyond the entry level. Claim 4: I’ll just pick up the phone. Reality: Important phone calls require follow-up letters, memos, or e-mail messages. People in organizations put things in writing to make themselves visible, to create a record, to con- vey complex data, to make things convenient for the reader, to save money, and to convey their own messages more effectively. ‘If it isn’t in writing,’ says a manager at one com- pany, ‘it didn’t happen.’ Writing is an essential way to make yourself visible, to let your accomplishments be known. What does communication accomplish? LO 1-3 Management happens through communication. According to Henry Mintzberg, managers have three basic jobs: to collect and convey information, to make decisions, and to promote interpersonal unity—that is, to make people want to work together to achieve organizational goals. 13 All of these jobs happen through communication. Effective managers are able to use a wide variety of media and 6 / 554 > Module 1 Business Communication, Management, and Success 7 President Figure 1.1 The Internal Audiences of the Sales Manager-West To superiors VP production VP marketing VP sales VP finance VP human resources To peers Sales manager East Sales manager Midwest Sales manager West Sales manager International District 1 manager District 2 manager District 3 manager To subordinates Sales rep Sales rep Sales rep Sales rep Sales rep M strategies to communicate. They know how to interpret comments from informal channels such as the company grapevine; they can speak effectively in small groups and in formal presentations; they write well. Communication—oral, nonverbal, and written-goes to both internal and external audiences. Internal audiences (Figure 1.1) are other people in the same organization: subordinates, superiors, peers. External audiences (Figure 1.2) are people outside the organization: customers, suppliers, unions, stockholders, potential employees, government agencies, the press, and the general public. Unions Subsidiaries Professional services (auditors, legal, etc.) Figure 1.2 The Corporation’s External Audiences Source: Daphne A. Jameson. Customers Clients Suppliers Vendors Stockholders Investors Lenders Distributors Wholesalers Franchisees Retailers Agents The corporation Employment agencies Legislators Government agencies, regulators, offices The courts The general public Potential employees Potential customers Potential stockholders Foreign governments and offices Special interest Trade associations The media groups Competitors Other businesses and industries B < 7 / 554 > Til < Site to See Go to www.teslamotors.com Word-of-mouth rather than traditional advertising has fueled sales of Tesla Motors' electric cars. The Importance of Listening, Speaking, and Interpersonal Communication Informal listening, speaking, and working in groups are just as important as writing formal documents and giving formal oral presentations. As a newcomer in an organization, you'll need to listen to others both to find out what you're supposed to do and to learn about the organization's values and culture. Informal chitchat, both about yesterday's game and about what's happening at work, connects you to the grapevine, an informal source of company information. You may be asked to speak to small groups, either inside or outside your organization. 14 Networking with others in your office and in town and working with others in workgroups will be crucial to your success. Instant Replay Internal and External Audiences Internal Audiences Are other people in the same organization: subordinates, superiors, peers. External Audiences Are people outside the organization: customers, suppliers, unions, stockholders, potential employees, government agencies, the press, and the general public. The Purposes of Messages in Organizations Messages in organizations have one or more of three basic purposes: to inform, to request or persuade, and to build goodwill. When you inform, you explain something or tell read- ers something. When you request or persuade, you want the reader to act. The word request suggests that the action will be easy or routine; persuade suggests that you will have to motivate and convince the reader to act. When you build goodwill, you create a good image of yourself and of your organization—the kind of image that makes people want to do business with you. Most messages have multiple purposes. 'When you answer a question, you're informing, but you also want to build goodwill by suggesting that you're competent and perceptive and that your answer is correct and complete. In a claims adjustment, whether your answer is yes or no, you want to suggest that the reader's claim has been given careful consideration and that the decision is fair, businesslike, and justified. 'To persuade, a résumé gives information to prove that you're qualified for the job and uses layout to emphasize your strong points and build a good image of you. .

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.