what is business communication

Business communication refers to how you present yourself in professional settings such as work, school, or volunteer roles.

Business communication is goal oriented and used to inform, solve problems, make decisions, and achieve results.

It differs from regular communication in tone, language, and audience.

Business communication isn't just talking. It includes:

Texts

Messages

why does it matter?

Your business communication skills can open doors- or quietly close them.

Strong Communication:

Builds Trust

Shows Maturity

Increases opportunities

Prevents misunderstandings

Makes you stand out

Email etiquette

Sample:

Subject Line: Question about Test 10.1

(Greeting) Hello Mr. Bowman,

I hope you are doing well. I am writing to ask a question about #12 on the recent marketing test. After reviewing my notes, I am hoping to better understand why my response was marked incorrect.

According to my notes, the 4 P's of marketing are: product, price, place and promotion. I chose that option on the test but it was marked incorrect. I would appreciate any clarification or insight you can give me as to why it was wrong.

Thank you for your time and help.

(Closing) Sincerely,

(Signature) Tim Brant

What to Avoic:

Slang
Hey!
No punctuation
All lowercase
One-word messages
Emojis

texting; best practices

How to Stay Professional When Texting

Use complete sentences
No emojis
Proper spelling
Respectful tone
Thoughtful timing

Hi Coach Lopez,

I wanted to confirm that practice will start at 2pm tomorrow instead of our usual time.

Thank you!

Good morning Mr. Lee,

I am not feeling well today and won't be able to come in. I plan to go to urgent care this afternoon if I am not better, so I can update you later today about my shift tomorrow.

Thank you for understanding.

Hi Mr. Reed,

I wanted to confirm you received my email regarding the days I will need off over spring break?

Thank you!

What is it?

Business texting is when you communicate professionally through text message with your:

Manager
Coach
Landlord
Client
Coworker

It is not the same as texting your friends and should sound professional- similar to an email

Phone Calls

Remember: Your voice represents professionalism

There is no time to edit
Your tone matters
Identify yourself: "Hello, this is Eliza"
Be in a quiet space
Speak slowly, confidently
Write down any talking points

Final Tips

Email back and forth

If you have emailed a professor, boss, or other person back and forth three times, it is best to request an in-person meeting or phone call.

Phone Calls: Pros and Cons

Pros: You can write down what you want to say, other person cannot judge body language, can make a call from home, avoids miscommunication that might result from a text.

Cons: Cannot edit, no written record, pressure to respond quickly, hard to process information, can feel intimidating

Use AI

An AI tool can help you:

Improve grammar
Organize your thoughts
Sound more professional

Write what you want to say and ask for feedback

Seek Help From a Mentor

When you need additional guidance, ask for help from your mentor or a trusted adult.

Online Meetings

Many interviews and meetings are done online. Be professional:

Check your tech- is everything working?
Background- clean and neutral
Dress appropriately- tops and bottoms
Camera should stay on the entire meeting
Mute when not speaking