ENG 105: Business English

3 credits | Prerequisites: Eng 102

Course rationale

This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of business communications and provides the opportunity to develop and practice communication skills; both written and oral. Opportunities for improving academic and workplace language proficiency are embedded in the course. This course introduces the various communication options available in a business context so that students can make appropriate choices in the workplace. With an emphasis on the development of professional oral and written communication skills, students will improve memo, letter, email, writing, and presentation skills and the ability to effectively participate in and chair meetings. Students will also develop skills in resume writing and study the strategies and techniques needed for success in interviews.

Course content

Principles of communication; verbal and non-verbal communication; formal style over conversational style; positive vs. negative language; business etiquette, interpersonal and intercultural communication; planning and writing business messages; planning reports and proposals; finding, evaluating and processing information; using digital, social and visual media; developing and delivering business presentations; applying and interviewing for employment.

Course objectives

Business communication differs from personal and social communication in addressing business use of email, blogs, social networks, podcasts, and other technologies professionally in marketing, servicing, and creating strong business relationships. The objective of this course is to provide students with the principles of effective communication with an emphasis on speaking and writing including oral presentations and demonstrations, writing techniques for business letters, memos, reports, employment communication including job hunting sources, techniques of CV writing and interviews. The course also aims to enhance students’ English grammar, vocabulary, and intercultural competence, necessary to communicate in a variety of social and cultural contexts.

References

  •  Textbook(s):
    Thill, J. V. ,and Bovée, C. L. (2018). Business Communication Today, 14th ed. London: Pearson
  • Recommended readings: Guffey, M. E. ,and Loewy. (2019). Essentials of Business Communication, 11th ed. Boston: Cengag
  • Learning.
  •    Chaturvedi, P. D. & Chaturvedi, M. (2012). Business Communication. New Delhi:     Pearson.
  •    Lesikar, R. V., Pettit, J. D., & Flatley, M. E. (1993). Basic business communication.       Homewood (Ill.: Irwin).
  • Supplementary Materials: Other supplementary resources (handouts) and materials (case studies) will be available in Google Classroom.