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Business Writing Techniques

5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Based on 1 rating
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Debora Sepich

The Business and Professional Communications for Success program will provide learners with the essential knowledge to create appropriate business messages and apply proper business writing techniques in their written business communications, all while working in diverse environments. This program also examines the various types of business presentations in the work environment and allows learners to apply their knowledge to create and present their work.

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The Business and Professional Communications for Success program will provide learners with the essential knowledge to create appropriate business messages and apply proper business writing techniques in their written business communications, all while working in diverse environments. This program also examines the various types of business presentations in the work environment and allows learners to apply their knowledge to create and present their work.

Business Writing Techniques will expand on the different communication styles of business writers. We will discuss business writers' best practices by providing real-world scenarios and applications such as proofreading and rewriting. Learners will examine how to use the 6 C's to enhance their business messages. Learners will also discuss the proper etiquette of business writing and examine the use of emoji in business communications.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • By the end of this course learners will be able to:
  • ● identify parts of a business letter
  • ● examine the 6 c's for business messages
  • ● evaluate direct vs. indirect messages
  • ● examine the use of emojis in the business setting

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines core foundations and best practices that business writers need to know
Relevant to workplace scenarios and useful for advancing careers
Offers essential business communication skills
Focuses on typical business communication contexts
Builds background knowledge for various types of business presentations
May require additional resources for learners who want to delve deeper

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Reviews summary

Practical business writing for professionals

According to learners, this course offers clear and concise explanations of business writing principles, making it highly suitable for professionals seeking to improve their communication skills. Students particularly appreciate the practical tools and strategies provided, such as the 6 C's framework and discussions on proper etiquette and emoji use, which are immediately applicable in real-world scenarios. While largely seen as a solid foundational course, some more experienced writers might find certain sections basic, suggesting it's best for those looking to solidify or refresh their understanding.
Excellent for beginners or those refreshing core business writing principles.
"As someone new to formal business communication, this course provided an excellent starting point for me."
"I found it perfect for refreshing my knowledge on essential business writing practices after years away."
"More experienced writers might find some sections introductory, but it's great for solidifying basics."
Course content is presented clearly, making complex ideas accessible.
"The explanations were incredibly clear, and the structure of the course made it easy to follow along."
"I enjoyed how the course broke down topics into manageable parts, making the learning process engaging."
"The real-world examples helped solidify my understanding of effective business messages."
Provides practical tools and frameworks for immediate application.
"I learned practical strategies, like the 6 C's, that I could apply to my emails and reports immediately."
"The sections on proper business etiquette and even emoji use were surprisingly relevant and useful for my work."
"This course gave me specific tools to improve my writing, not just theoretical knowledge, which I appreciated."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Business Writing Techniques with these activities:
Practice Essential Grammar Rules
Review the essential grammar rules to ensure a strong foundation for effective business writing.
Browse courses on Grammar
Show steps
  • Review the eight parts of speech and their functions.
  • Practice constructing clear and concise sentences.
  • Analyze sample business documents to identify proper grammar usage.
Gather Business Writing Resources and Tools
Compile a list of useful resources and tools to support your business writing efforts.
Show steps
  • Identify and collect online resources such as templates, style guides, and grammar checkers.
  • Organize the resources and tools in a central location for easy access.
  • Share the compilation with other learners or colleagues.
Utilize Online Resources for Business Writing
Explore online resources to enhance your understanding of business writing best practices.
Show steps
  • Identify and access reliable online sources on business writing.
  • Review tutorials and articles on topics such as email etiquette, formatting, and style.
  • Apply the techniques learned in your own business writing.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Business Letter Outline
Develop an outline for a business letter to improve your planning and organization skills.
Show steps
  • Determine the main purpose and audience of the letter.
  • Identify the key points to be communicated.
  • Structure the outline with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
Draft an Internal Business Email
Compose an internal business email to practice applying the principles of business writing.
Show steps
  • Identify the purpose and audience of the email.
  • Structure the email using appropriate headings and paragraphs.
  • Proofread and edit the email for clarity and professionalism.
  • Seek feedback from a colleague or instructor on the effectiveness of the email's communication.
Participate in a Business Writing Workshop or Class
Attend workshops or classes to enhance your business writing skills and connect with other professionals.
Show steps
  • Identify and register for a relevant workshop or class.
  • Attend the workshop or class and actively participate in discussions
  • Apply the techniques and strategies learned to your own business writing.
Organize Course Resources for Future Reference
Organize your notes, assignments, and materials for easy access and review after the course.
Show steps
  • Create a digital or physical filing system.
  • categorize materials by topic or module.
  • Create a summary or cheat sheet for key concepts.

Career center

Learners who complete Business Writing Techniques will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Communications Specialist
In this role, Communications Specialists craft written content for various purposes, including internal company-wide communications, press releases, social media posts, marketing materials, and website updates. The course Business Writing Techniques is highly relevant to those seeking a career as a Communications Specialist as it provides essential knowledge on writing styles, proofreading, content revision, and emoji usage in business communications. The course will equip learners with practical skills that can be directly applied to developing clear and impactful communication materials.
See salaries and explore the career path for Communications Specialist
Business Analyst
Business Analysts collaborate with stakeholders to understand their business needs and develop solutions that improve operations and efficiency. Business Writing Techniques is an excellent course for professionals seeking a career as a Business Analyst as it provides a solid foundation in business communication. The course teaches learners how to write effective business messages, including emails, reports, and proposals, which are essential skills for Business Analysts to clearly convey their findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create user manuals, technical specifications, and other instructional materials that explain complex technical information. Business Writing Techniques can provide aspiring Technical Writers with a foundation in clear and concise writing, which is crucial for developing effective technical documentation. The course will also equip learners with skills in proofreading and revision, ensuring the accuracy and readability of technical materials.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Copywriter
Copywriters create persuasive and compelling content for marketing and advertising purposes. Business Writing Techniques can be valuable for those seeking a career as a Copywriter as it provides foundational knowledge in writing styles, content development, and persuasive techniques. The course will help learners develop the skills needed to write engaging and effective marketing materials, such as ad copy, website content, and social media posts.
See salaries and explore the career path for Copywriter
Content Creator
Content Creators are responsible for developing and delivering content that resonates with target audiences, often through written formats such as blog posts, articles, and social media updates. Business Writing Techniques can provide Content Creators with a foundation in writing styles, audience analysis, and effective communication. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to create compelling content that engages and informs their target audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Content Creator
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers oversee the development and execution of marketing campaigns, which often involve creating written content for various purposes. Business Writing Techniques can provide aspiring Marketing Managers with a solid understanding of writing styles, persuasive techniques, and content development. The course will help learners develop the skills needed to write effective marketing materials, such as press releases, email campaigns, and website content.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists manage the flow of information between an organization and its target audiences, often through written communication channels. Business Writing Techniques can provide a valuable foundation for those seeking a career as a Public Relations Specialist as it teaches how to write clear, concise, and persuasive messages. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to effectively communicate with the media, stakeholders, and the public.
See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on current events and issues, often in written formats such as news articles, features, and op-eds. Business Writing Techniques can provide aspiring Journalists with a solid understanding of writing styles, news writing principles, and ethical considerations. The course will help learners develop the skills needed to write accurate, informative, and engaging journalistic pieces.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Grant Writer
Grant Writers research, write, and submit grant proposals to secure funding for non-profit organizations, often involving writing in a persuasive and compelling manner. Business Writing Techniques can provide a valuable foundation for those seeking a career as a Grant Writer as it teaches how to write clear, persuasive, and well-structured proposals. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to effectively communicate the mission and goals of an organization to potential funding sources.
See salaries and explore the career path for Grant Writer
Author
Authors write books, articles, and other written works, often requiring strong writing skills and an understanding of different writing styles. Business Writing Techniques can provide aspiring Authors with a solid foundation in writing styles, content development, and revision techniques. The course will help learners develop the skills needed to write engaging and compelling content that resonates with their target audience.
See salaries and explore the career path for Author
Technical Communicator
Technical Communicators develop and deliver technical documentation, such as user manuals, training materials, and technical reports. Business Writing Techniques can provide a valuable foundation for those seeking a career as a Technical Communicator as it teaches how to write clear, concise, and accurate technical information. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Communicator
Editor
Editors review, edit, and revise written content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency. Business Writing Techniques can provide aspiring Editors with a solid understanding of writing styles, grammar, and editing principles. The course will help learners develop the skills needed to effectively edit and improve written content for a variety of purposes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers develop and deliver educational materials and programs, often involving written content such as lesson plans, training manuals, and e-learning modules. Business Writing Techniques can provide a valuable foundation for those seeking a career as an Instructional Designer as it teaches how to write clear, concise, and engaging instructional materials. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to effectively communicate complex concepts to learners.
See salaries and explore the career path for Instructional Designer
User Experience (UX) Writer
UX Writers craft written content for user interfaces, such as websites, apps, and software, with a focus on clarity, usability, and accessibility. Business Writing Techniques can provide a valuable foundation for those seeking a career as a UX Writer as it teaches how to write clear, concise, and user-centered content. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to effectively communicate with users and improve the overall user experience.
See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience (UX) Writer
Proposal Writer
Proposal Writers develop and submit proposals in response to requests for proposals (RFPs) or other funding opportunities. Business Writing Techniques can provide a valuable foundation for those seeking a career as a Proposal Writer as it teaches how to write clear, persuasive, and well-structured proposals. The course will equip learners with the skills needed to effectively communicate the value and benefits of a proposed project to potential clients or funding sources.
See salaries and explore the career path for Proposal Writer

Reading list

We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Business Writing Techniques.
Cover image
Business Communication
Save
This textbook covers a wide range of business communication topics, including writing, speaking, and nonverbal communication.
Business Communication: Building Critical Skills
Paperback
$$$
Business Communication with Connect Access Card:...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Business Communication for Success
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of business communication, covering topics such as writing effective emails, memos, and reports, as well as giving presentations and conducting meetings. It would be a valuable resource for students in the Business Writing Techniques course, as it would provide them with a solid foundation in the basics of business communication.
Business Communication for Success Version 2.0
Paperback
$$$
Business Communication for Success (Canadian...
Paperback Bunko
$$$$
Cover image
The Elements of Style
Save
Classic guide to writing clear and concise prose. It would be a valuable resource for students in the Business Writing Techniques course, as it would help them to improve the quality of their written communication.
The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition
Paperback
$
The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition
Kindle Edition
$
The Elements of Style [Illustrated]
Paperback
$$
The Elements of Style: Fourth Edition
Paperback
$
Cover image
The Pyramid Principle
Save
Teaches a method for structuring presentations and documents that is clear and concise.
The Pyramid Principle: Logic in Writing and Thinking
Paperback
$$$
The Pyramid Principle: Logic in Writing and Thinking
Hardcover
$$$
The pyramid principle: Logic in writing and thinking
Hardcover
$$$$
(中文) THE Minto Pyramid Principle:logic in Writing,...
Paperback
$$
The Pyramid Principle: Logic In Writing And...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Columns to Characters
Save
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of management communication, including writing, speaking, and interpersonal skills.
Columns to Characters: The Presidency and the Press...
Hardcover
$$
Columns to Characters: The Presidency and the Press...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
The Art of Readable Writing
Save
Classic guide to writing clear and concise prose. It would be a valuable resource for students in the Business Writing Techniques course, as it would help them to improve the quality of their written communication.
The Art of Readable Writing
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Making Numbers Count
Save
Provides insights into how to create memorable and persuasive presentations.
Making Numbers Count: The Art and Science of...
Hardcover
$$
Making Numbers Count [Hardcover] By Chip Heath,...
Paperback
$$
Factfulness [Hardcover], Foolproof [Hardcover],...
Paperback
$$
Decisive, Power Of Moments, Making Numbers Count...
Paperback
$$$
Making Numbers Count: The Art and Science of...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Democratic Vernaculars
Save
Practical guide to writing effective business letters. It would be a valuable resource for students in the Business Writing Techniques course, as it would help them to improve the quality of their written communication.
Democratic Vernaculars: Rhetorics of Reading,...
Paperback
$$
Democratic Vernaculars: Rhetorics of Reading,...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Art of the Pitch
Save
Practical guide to writing effective business pitches. It would be a valuable resource for students in the Business Writing Techniques course, as it would help them to improve the quality of their written communication.
The Art of the Pitch: Persuasion and Presentation...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
The Storytelling Edge
Save
Practical guide to writing effective business emails. It would be a valuable resource for students in the Business Writing Techniques course, as it would help them to improve the quality of their written communication.
The Storytelling Edge: How to Transform Your...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Effort
5 to 8 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
Doane University
Instructor
Debora Sepich
Language
English
Transcript
English
This course belongs to a collection called Business and Professional Communication for Success. It's comprised of three courses:
  1. Business Communications - The Basics
  2. Business Writing Techniques (viewing)
  3. Professional Business Presentations
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Examines core foundations and best practices that business writers need to know
Relevant to workplace scenarios and useful for advancing careers
Offers essential business communication skills
Focuses on typical business communication contexts
Builds background knowledge for various types of business presentations
May require additional resources for learners who want to delve deeper
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