business communication skills books

9 must-read books to make you a stronger communicator

The single biggest problem in communication is when someone has the illusion that they have communicated – but their message did not get through. IT leaders need to convey an incredible amount of information to succeed in their roles. However, getting those messages across effectively can be a challenge, particularly with the many demands on people’s time and attention, the varied forms of media you must employ, and the sometimes charged or difficult nature of the communications you have to deliver.

Thankfully, there is plentiful advice on being a better communicator . We’ve gathered some of the best books out there to help IT leaders deliver the right message, the right way, at the right time – whether you’re having a difficult discussion with a subordinate, delivering critical data to the C-suite, presenting at a conference, persuading a peer, or simply sending a status update via email.

Unleash the Power of Storytelling: Win Hearts, Change Minds, Get Results

By Rob Biesenbach

Book description (via Amazon): “The market is flooded with a dizzying array of books, experts, and resources on business storytelling. This book cuts through the hype to clarify and demystify the storytelling process.

“Unleash the Power of Storytelling” offers step-by-step instructions for finding, shaping and telling powerful stories. You’ll learn about the essential ingredients that go into any good story and how to avoid common storytelling pitfalls.”

Why you should read it: Humans are emotional beings, and narratives appeal to that, enabling them to receive and digest information more easily. Effective storytelling, however, often can take practice. This practical how-to explains why stories work, offers a simple three-part template for crafting a narrative, and includes tips on refining stories and delivering them effectively. It also contains examples of how to use a narrative approach in various situations like company meetings, job interviews, and presentations.

Like Biesenbach’s approach? Check out his other book, 11 Deadly Presentation Sins: A Path to Redemption for Public Speakers, PowerPoint Users and Anyone Who Has to Get Up and Talk in Front of an Audience , for 100 tips on saving yourself from PowerPoint hell.

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Five Stars: The Communication Secrets to Get from Good to Great

By Carmine Gallo

Book description (via Amazon): “Ideas don’t sell themselves. As the forces of globalization, automation, and artificial intelligence combine to disrupt every field, having a good idea isn’t good enough. Mastering the ancient art of persuasion is the key to standing out, getting ahead, and achieving greatness in the modern world. Communication is no longer a ‘soft’ skill―it is the human edge that will make you unstoppable, irresistible, and irreplaceable―earning you that perfect rating, that fifth star.”

Why you should read it: Carmine Gallo, the author of Talk Like TED (another great communication read), turns to Aristotle’s three-part formula for persuasion, to which he says all great communicators from the founding fathers to today’s most successful business leaders adhere: ethos (credibility), logos (logic), and pathos (emotion). He also brings in neuroscientists, economists, historians, billionaires, and business leaders of companies like Google, Nike, and Airbnb to show illustrate just how it works.

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Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone

By Mark Goulston

Book description (via Amazon): “Getting through to someone is a fine art, indeed, but a critical one nonetheless. Whether you are dealing with a harried colleague, a stressed-out client, or an insecure spouse, things will go from bad to worse if you can’t break through emotional barricades and get your message thoroughly communicated and registered. Drawing on his experience as a psychiatrist, business consultant, and coach, author Mark Goulston shares simple but powerful techniques readers can use to break through the stubborn and hardened outer layers of coworkers, friends, strangers, or even enemies.”

Why you should read it: How do you get people to listen? Psychiatrist and business coach Goulston offers tools and techniques for breaking down communication barriers whether dealing with “defiant executives, angry employees or self-destructing management teams.” Goulston brings his experience in training hostage negotiators to bear offering instruction on how to build empathy, de-escalate conflict, and get buy-in.

We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter

By Celeste Headlee

Book description (via Amazon): “Today most of us communicate from behind electronic screens, and studies show that Americans feel less connected and more divided than ever before. The blame for some of this disconnect can be attributed to our political landscape, but the erosion of our conversational skills as a society lies with us as individuals.

And the only way forward, says Celeste Headlee, is to start talking to each other. In ‘We Need to Talk,’ she outlines the strategies that have made her a better conversationalist – and offers simple tools that can improve anyone’s communication.“

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Why you should read it: Public radio host Headlee has had plenty of difficult conversations – often live and on their air. Here, she shares a number of her best tips for true engagement with other humans in even the most contentious or uncomfortable situations, such as checking your bias at the door, hiding your phone, avoiding multitasking, being ready to learn, and never repeating yourself.

Power Questions: Build Relationships, Win New Business, and Influence Others

By Andrew Sobel and Jerold Panas

Book description (via Amazon): “Skillfully redefine problems. Make an immediate connection with anyone. Rapidly determine if a client is ready to buy. Access the deepest dreams of others. ‘Power Questions’ sets out a series of strategic questions that will help you win new business and dramatically deepen your professional and personal relationships. The book showcases thirty-five riveting, real conversations with CEOs, billionaires, clients, colleagues, and friends. Each story illustrates the extraordinary power and impact of a thought-provoking, incisive power question.“

Why you should read it: A powerful question, the authors argue, can transform any conversation. It can even make the difference between great success and failure, as they illustrate with the example of how Steve Jobs’s single motivating question led to breakthroughs in the development of the Mac. In another example, an unasked question cost a major company a huge project bid. Sobel and Panas serve up 337 “essential questions” matched to 35 common business-related situations, whether you’re seeking to refocus a meeting or understand someone else’s goals and motivations.

15 Best Communication Books to Read for Work

By: Angela Robinson | Updated: February 13, 2024

You found our list of top communication books for work.

Communication books are guides that teach skills and strategies for having successful conversations in the workplace. These references cover topics like body language, empathy, diplomacy, and listening. The purpose of these books is to improve communication skills and teamwork.

These guides are a type of team building book and are similar to books on conflict resolution , problem solving books , and negotiation books . You can also use these books for networking tips .

This list includes:

business communication books
communication skills books
workplace communication books
communication books for leaders
books about public speaking
books on communication skills

Here we go!

List of communication books

Here is a list of books about communication to improve conversations in the workplace.

1. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

Crucial Conversations is a guide for communicating in tense situations. The book urges speakers to create dialogues where both parties feel safe speaking and try to hear each other out. The authors explain how to navigate fraught discussions with grace, compassion, and skill, and relay tips and strategies for steering the talk towards peaceful resolution. The book shows readers how to stay in control of their own emotions, persuade without pressuring, and use a solutions-centered tone. Later chapters even touch on

Notable Quote: “People who are skilled at dialogue do their best to make it safe for everyone to add their meaning to the shared pool–even ideas that at first glance appear controversial, wrong, or at odds with their own beliefs. Now, obviously they don’t agree with every idea; they simply do their best to ensure that all ideas find their way into the open.”

Read Crucial Conversations .

2. Simply Said: Communicating Better at Work and Beyond by Jay Sullivan

Simply Said is one of the best workplace communication books. Jay Sullivan outlines the rules of business communication and shows professionals how to optimize conversations. The book explores best practices for written and oral communication, as well as communication in team and leadership environments. Covered topics include how to structure messages, use clear wording, consciously incorporate body language, give and respond to feedback, and guide meetings. The book explores office communications in several forms, and strips the practice of communicating down to bare basics. Simply Said is one of the most helpful handbooks for corporate communication.

Notable Quote: “If we put the focus on what the other person is trying to gain from the exchange, we will do a better job communicating, because we will select more pertinent information, drill down to the desired level of detail, and make the information we are sharing more accessible to our audience.”

Read Simply Said .

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3. Words That Work: It’s Not What You Say, It’s What People Hear by Dr. Frank Luntz

Words That Work is a guide to phrasing. The main thread of the book is that it is the interpretation, not the intention, that matters most in communication. The book explores common pitfalls that lead to misunderstanding, shows how to choose words carefully, and teaches readers how to be more masterful in messaging. Special sections present ten golden rules for language as well as corporate and political case studies that show how words can be misconstrued. Words That Work provides a blueprint for conveying the proper meaning and being understood in discussion. This book explains the responsibility of phrasing thoughts with care and shows how to deliver messages in the most effective manner possible.

Notable Quote: “Those who define the debate will determine the outcome.”

Read Words That Work .

4. The Fine Art of Small Talk: How To Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills — and Leave a Positive Impression! By Debra Fine

The Fine Art of Small Talk offers a crash course in having casual conversations. The book breaks down ways to start, maintain, and end conversations, with an emphasis on ways to keep the talk lively and engaging. Debra Fine gives advice on how to make meaningful connections and leave positive impressions by practicing and improving conversational skills. The end of the book covers how to leverage small talk in specific situations such as networking events or holiday parties. The guide has many practical applications in the workplace, including bonding with coworkers and establishing a rapport with clients. While many communication books focus on navigating high-stakes discussions, The Fine Art of Small Talk shows that less-formal chats can be just as impactful.

Notable Quote: “No matter what your chosen topic of conversation, I cannot overstate the importance of being authentic when talking with someone. If you are not genuinely interested in what the other person is saying, no amount of planning or preparation will save you from a doomed conversation. Interest in someone else cannot be feigned.”

Read The Fine Art of Small Talk .

5. Communication Skills Training: A Practical Guide to Improving Your Social Intelligence, Presentation, Persuasion and Public Speaking by Ian Tuhovsky

Communication Skills Training is one of the most helpful communication skills books. The guide provides a practical toolkit for boosting emotional intelligence and conversational skills. Pages cover topics such as expressing anger productively, fixing conversations that go awry, remaining unfettered and coming up with quick responses, and predicting reactions. The book covers the full gambit of communicational topics, and gives readers practical advice for any potential situation. The pages are full of sample dialogues to illustrate the points, as well as easy instructions, such as lists of phrases to avoid along with better substitutions. Communication Skills Training is a comprehensive handbook for communicating effectively in any circumstance that is full of actionable advice and not simply theory.

Notable Quote: “What can I do even better, more efficiently, differently and more effectively?”

Read Communication Skills Training .

6. Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone by Mark Goulston by Ian Tuhovsky

Just Listen is one of the best communication books for leaders. The authors insist that hearing others is often the key to being heard. The pages show professionals how to identify feelings and motivations, validate the speaker, and deal with challenging people and situations with patience and skill. The guide provides frameworks such as “the 9 core rules to get through to anyone” and “tools for achieving buy-in and getting through,” to help conversation leaders overcome skepticism and defensiveness and find common ground. Just Listen stresses the importance of listening, context, and clue-gathering in communication and shows readers strategies for having healthier dialogues.

Notable Quote: “So when you encounter problem people, realize that there’s a reason they’re behaving the way they do…. Open your own mind and look for the reasons behind the behavior, and you’ll take the first step toward breaking down barriers and communicating with an “impossible” person.”

Read Just Listen .

7. Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life One Conversation at a Time by Susan Scott

Fierce Conversations is a guide for having more authentic and impactful conversations. The book teaches readers how to leverage communication to achieve positive change, and shows that success is the result of a series of productive conversations. Susan Scott delivers motivational sentiments along with actionable advice on how to wield silence as a tool, take accountability for emotional outbursts, and advocate for priorities. Fierce Conversations provides a roadmap for standing ground in discussions and talking more triumphantly.

Notable Quote: “Our work, our relationships, and our lives succeed or fail one conversation at a time. While no single conversation is guaranteed to transform a company, a relationship, or a life, any single conversation can. Speak and listen as if this is the most important conversation you will ever have with this person. It could be. Participate as if it matters. It does.”

Read Fierce Conversations .

8. Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance by Erica Dhawan

Digital Body Language is an instructional manual for reading cues in online conversations. This guide explains how to read reactions and build trust from behind a screen. The pages outline which communication tools to use in certain situations, and show how to communicate thoughtfully and professionally on any platform. Erica Dhawan also touches on how to digitally bridge differences like gender, generational divide, and culture. Digital Body Language is a valuable reference for communicating while working remotely.

Notable Quote: “The loss of nonverbal body cues is among the most overlooked reasons why employees feel so disengaged from others. If used properly, and at scale, empathetic body language equals employee engagement. Disengagement happens not because people don’t want to be empathetic but because with today’s tools, they don’t know how.”

Read Digital Body Language , and check out this guide to virtual meeting etiquette .

9. Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo

Talk Like TED is one of the best books about public speaking. Carmine Gallo analyzes hundreds of TED talks to determine what qualities make speeches and speakers most memorable. The book lays out nine best practices that lead to compelling presentations, such as appealing to multiple senses, educating the audience, delivering delightful surprises, and being brief. Talk Like TED is a written workshop in the art of storytelling that can help professionals elevate presentations.

Notable Quote: “Science shows that passion is contagious, literally. You cannot inspire others unless you are inspired yourself. You stand a much greater chance of persuading and inspiring your listeners if you express an enthusiastic, passionate, and meaningful connection to your topic.”

Read Talk Like TED .

10. Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication by Oren Jay Sofer

Say What You Mean is the ultimate guide for having mindful and meaningful conversations. Oren Jay Sofer explores the unconscious habits and patterns that many talkers fall into and shows readers how to break away from autopilot discussions and speak with intention. This guide emphasizes how to maintain focus, avoid ambiguity, and reduce anxiety when having discussions. The text shows how to be blunt yet compassionate and proves that conversational clarity does not have to come at the sake of humanity.

Notable Quote: “To listen entails a fundamental letting go of self-centeredness. We have to be willing to put down our own thoughts, views, and feelings temporarily to truly listen.”

Read Say What You Mean .

11. We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter by Celeste Headlee

Inspired by a highly-popular TED talk, We Need to Talk gives guidance on navigating important conversations. Celeste Headlee shows readers how to be fully present in conversations, take a nonjudgmental approach, avoid repetition and fluff, and get to the heart of the matter. The book frames conversation as a survival skill, and teaches speakers how to master the art. We Need to Talk shows readers how to stop multitasking and assuming, mine discussion for important information, and ensure that critical messages get heard.

Notable Quote: “In order to have important conversations, you will sometimes have to check your opinions at the door. There is no belief so strong that it cannot be set aside temporarily in order to learn from someone who disagrees. Don’t worry; your beliefs will still be there when you’re done.”

Read We Need to Talk .

12. Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen

Difficult Conversations is a handbook for communicating in high-pressure situations. Drawing on expertise gained from The Harvard Negotiation Project, the authors outline best practices for guiding emotionally-charged discussions. The text gives tips on disarming defensiveness, identifying underlying meaning, and transitioning the talk from emotion to solutions. The book identifies and analyzes different types of difficult conversations and explores the nuances of the circumstances surrounding discussions. Difficult Conversations is a valuable toolkit for any professional who needs to speak about tricky topics or communicate with difficult people.

Notable Quote: “Often we go through an entire conversation – or indeed an entire relationship – without ever realizing that each of us is paying attention to different things, that our views are based on different information.”

Read Difficult Conversations .

13. HBR Guide to Better Business Writing by The Harvard Business Review

HBR Guide to Better Business Writing is one of the top business communication books. This practical guide teaches readers how to draft correspondence such as emails, letters, memos, and reports. The book shows how to write professional, persuasive, and powerful messages that achieve objectives. The chapters explore fundamentals like conveying a clear message, summarizing and emphasizing key points, following grammatical conventions, and making the best use of limited space. The guide also provides a formula for the writing process. HBR Guide to Better Business Writing is a masterclass in writing for work that can help professionals at any level sharpen their skills.

Notable Quote: “Many people begin writing before they know what they’re trying to accomplish. As a result, their readers don’t know where to focus their attention or what they’re supposed to do with the message. So much depends on your purpose in writing that you must fix it firmly in your mind. What do you want the outcome to be?”

Read HBR Guide to Better Business Writing .

14. Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell

Talking to Strangers is an exploration of the conclusions we make about strangers, and the ways these judgments influence our interactions. The book is a fascinating case study of assumption and interpersonal conflict. In Malcolm Gladwell’s typical style, the book presents a series of case studies from contemporary history and explores the underlying psychology and elements that underscore a series of events. The book shows how the initial ideas we form about strangers can enable the other party’s actions and guide our own behavior. Reading the other person is a large part of communication, and Gladwell exposes just how often we misread conversation partners, and the results that can come as a result of these misunderstandings. Talking to Strangers is a helpful aid for overcoming bias and attempting more honest communication.

Notable Quote: “The conviction that we know others better than they know us—and that we may have insights about them they lack (but not vice versa)—leads us to talk when we would do well to listen and to be less patient than we ought to be when others express the conviction that they are the ones who are being misunderstood or judged unfairly.”

Read Talking to Strangers .

15. The Art of Communicating by Thich Nhat Hanh

The Art of Communicating is a guide to compassionate conversation. Monk and mindfulness expert Thich Nhat Hanh covers topics such as self-talk, empathetic listening, and mindful communication at work. The strategies and best practices in the book aim to help individuals have more meaningful conversations that spark and strengthen authentic connections. Several chapters focus on workplace conversation and how to avoid negative and toxic discussions both internally and externally. As the modern workforce calls for increasing levels of humanity in the corporate world, The Art of Communicating is a valuable resource for professionals craving more sincere, kind, and open discussion.

Notable Quote: “Once you can communicate with yourself, you’ll be able to communicate outwardly with more clarity. The way in is the way out.”

Read The Art of Communicating .

Final Thoughts

Communication is one of the most important parts of business, yet many professionals struggle with the art. The practice is about more than exchanging words and information. Workplace communication is about delivering messages in concise and compelling ways and getting listeners onboard. Books about communication can help readers avoid misunderstandings, capture and hold attention, and be more confident when speaking in the workplace. These guides improve teamwork and help professionals achieve more positive outcomes in conversations.

For more book suggestions, check out this list of focus books , and this list of communication games and activities .

We also have a list of the best ways to increase empathy at the office .

Book wildly fun team building events with expert hosts

FAQ: Communication books

Here are answers to common questions about communication books.

What are communication books?

Communication books are guides that teach readers how to have more productive conversations both verbally and in writing. These guides cover topics such as public speaking, reading body language, listening and getting others to listen.

What are some good communication books for work?

Some good communication books for work include Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Say What You Mean by Oren Jay Sofer, and Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott.

What books help to improve communication skills?

Books that help to improve communication skills include Talk Like TED by Carmine Gallo, Communication Skills Training by Ian Tuhovsky, and Simply Said by Jay Sullivan.

Author: Angela Robinson

Marketing Coordinator at teambuilding.com. Angela has a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing and worked as a community manager with Yelp to plan events for businesses.

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Business Communication for Success

(39 reviews)

ISBN 13: 9781946135056

Publisher: University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing

Language: English

Formats Available

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Learn more about reviews.

Reviewed by April Schofield, Senior Lecturer and Director, Metropolitan State University of Denver on 7/15/22

This is a very comprehensive textbook and includes over 600 pages of content. It includes the necessary components to help students communicate effectively in business environments. read more

Comprehensiveness rating: 5 see less

This is a very comprehensive textbook and includes over 600 pages of content. It includes the necessary components to help students communicate effectively in business environments.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

The included content is very accurate. There are some areas that need updating to reflect the current business environment.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 3

Since the book was published in 2015, newer concepts are not addressed. For example, how to communicate effectively in virtual meetings or via social channels. The nature of how we communicate has significantly changed since 2015 so any business communication textbook that is older will have similar shortfalls. I do believe this content could be added in standalone sections or chapters.

Clarity rating: 5

The book is conversational and engaging. It is appropriate for an introductory level class and for students from various majors. I think all students could benefit from the communication concepts outlined in this book, not strictly business students.

Consistency rating: 5

The format and writing style are consistent throughout the entire book.

Modularity rating: 5

The book is easily broken up into smaller reading sections. I appreciated the questions to start each chapter, the reviews of important concepts, and the exercises at the end of each chapter. These could be used as classroom conversations, homework assignments, etc.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

The early chapters are foundational (why communication is important, the science of language and communication), followed by "how to" chapters. The table of contents provides a robust overview of topics, beyond chapter titles.

Interface rating: 5

There are multiple formats available, including PDF, ebook, online, XML, and ODF. I reviewed both the PDF and ebook versions. The various sections in the table of contents are hyperlinked. I found both formats easy to navigate and did not experience any issues.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

The book is well-written and I did not notice grammatical errors. This is very important for a book focused on communication!

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

Intercultural and international communication is addressed throughout the book and an entire chapter is devoted to the topic.

Reviewed by Heather Leigh Maher, Adjunct Professor, City Colleges of Chicago on 5/31/22

Comprehensiveness rating: 4 see less

While the book covers many essential topics in detail, others are less updated than is optimal and yet others are intermingled with other chapter headings, making them harder to find than I am used to in this type of textbook (such as more basic but important principles, such as audience analysis, which is scattered throughout several other chapters beyond the one titled as containing such information). Some ideas are basic, which is great to cover survey and more advanced courses, but I have a feeling I'd be having students read selections from several chapters for several topics I'm used to having more consolidated. While the table of contents is hyperlinked in the online and PDF versions, there is no index, which makes it tedious to identify every location relevant to a topic without extreme front-loading in course planning. Despite this, if it had more information on electronic elements that have changed the business landscape in the past 10 years or so, it might be worth doing the work--and maybe even supplementing missing items.

Content Accuracy rating: 5

It is accurate, but missing definitions for some jargon that may be hard for brand new business students, while including others when they probably aren't necessary. It seems to be biased only in that it seems to have a very specific student audience in mind, but I cannot for the life of me imagine actually meeting a student with that exact blend of needed and unneeded knowledge in one of my classes. Again, good if you like to customize your reading selections a great deal, but not as great if you're looking for a single text to fill the majority of your course content with only a smaller percentage of supplements from other sources.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 2

The book is already missing any significant content on how technology has massively changed business communication in the past 10 years, and while it mentions it indirectly (basically saying "it's affecting things") in several places, without at least one chapter dedicated to those changes, it seems both incomplete and very hard to update and revise.

Clarity rating: 4

Some jargon isn't given enough context to be clear for the range of learning levels the book attempts to cover (by my assessment), but the prose, while very heavy (minimal application of actual business writing principles in terms of white space and using visuals), is clear and well-edited.

Consistency rating: 2

The writing is consistent, but the level of assumed pre-existing knowledge is not consistent from chapter section to chapter section, or across chapters (some are much more consistent than others). The organizational structure is the weakest element of the book, as I mentioned with overlapping concepts discussed in multiple chapters that are not labeled in ways that would lead a reader--much less a student--to expect to find certain pieces of information in them.

Modularity rating: 2

As mentioned, there's overlap across chapters on topics, but not information, so you really need the whole thing. It's loosely organized into "Business Communication", "Business Writing", "Business Presentations", a bit on rhetoric, and then what feels like the author felt was "left over" in that they are important topics that didn't fit into the original outline? Maybe in a revision? I can only speculate. It also is quite prose-heavy without bread for illustrative graphics, which are always better received at the undergraduate level.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 1

One of my comments on "Modularity" is really the core commentary for me on this category, as the structure and organization looked excellent in the chapter titles, but the content proved they were a bit unfocused and, in some cases, misleading as relevant ideas were discussed in completely different sections: "...there's overlap across chapters on topics, but not information, so you really need the whole thing. It's loosely organized into "Business Communication", "Business Writing", "Business Presentations", a bit on rhetoric, and then what feels like the author felt was "left over" in that they are important topics that didn't fit into the original outline? Maybe in a revision? I can only speculate."

Interface rating: 4

The table of contents for the electronic PDF and the online version is all hyperlinked, which is great. The drop-down menus listing sub-sections in the chapters in the online version, is a bit clunky and unintuitive.

Well-edited.

Cultural Relevance rating: 2

All inter- and intra-cultural information in smushed into one of the chapters that feels like an afterthought or revision chapter added later. There is no integration of global business communication in any regular manner throughout the text, and exercises (which are weak in general) are very monocultural. It reads like a textbook for upper-middle class white students, written by one just a generation older. This is definitely an area where you'd need to go find another, *much* more detailed and specific source, especially for examples and possible homework exercises or group activities to put into action.

In general, I feel that this book is dated--not as much in content (but technology and non-American business knowledge and potential issues absolutely need a major addition with details and specific information), but in what it appears to emphasize. Perhaps the author was teaching several levels of skill across various classes and wanted one book that they could pick appropriate sections for all of them, or even just to save students even more money, but it reads as poorly organized and needing a major editorial structural overhaul (although I don't think modern editors even do that much work with authors any more). If you are willing to read the entire book, pretty much make your own index for how you want to organize your class, and don't mind supplementing close to half of your readings with outside sources, it could be extremely useful. However, you will definitely need to find the cultural and technological information elsewhere. I have survey-level students who have offered more specific and detailed information on both areas, but I do teach at an extremely diverse college system with many 1st, 1.5, and 2nd generation immigrants, as well as international students, which are excellent resources themselves in these areas.

Reviewed by Jessica Rick, Assistant Professor of Communication Studies, University of Southern Indiana on 5/20/22

This book is a comprehensive look at business and professional communication. It covers almost everything I would cover in my business and professional communication class. I really like the chapter on intercultural and international business... read more

This book is accurate.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 4

I didn't find many errors, but the definitions and models of communication are outdated. I believe the author could have found more recent definitions, models, and conceptions of communication. I also would have liked to see more of a discussion of organizational communication concepts in business communication.

Students were able to read and understand the book and its contents.

The book uses consistent terms and structure throughout. Previous chapters provide a good scaffolding for later chapters.

Modularity rating: 4

This book is almost too comprehensive that it is hard to navigate. But I do like that I can mix and match different parts of the book to fit my schedule and class content.

Students were able to follow the organization of the book. The numbering system makes it easy for students to find what to read for each class period.

No issues with the interface of the textbook.

No issues with the grammar.

Cultural Relevance rating: 4

Some of the examples could be updated to reflect a more nuanced understanding of a variety of perspectives. But overall, I was pleased with the cultural contexts discussed.

Reviewed by Susan Lantz, Teaching Associate Professor, West Virginia University on 4/25/22

The book is comprehensive. It definitely covers the basics. It covers areas of writing that I might not use for more advanced college writers, but would be absolutely vital for beginning college writers. read more

The content was accurate. (Except for the page about web-search engines. . . which was outdated.)

For the most part, the authors/editors did a good job of avoiding language or references that were dated. They might want to revisit the page that lists "Some Examples of Internet Search Sites." They listed "Alta Vista" for example. . . which has since been taken over by Yahoo. They also list sites like dogpile, webcrawler, and The Encyclopedia Britannica. This information was pretty cutting edge in 2002, but times have changed.

The material was well-written, clear, and concise.

The text was internally consistent and easy to navigate. (This might change, though, according to formatting. I found the PDF easy to use, though.)

I was pleasantly pleased at how easy to the text was to read, divide, and excerpt.

The text was organized quite nicely. It was easy for me to find what I was looking for, and it followed a logical progression.

Navigation was no problem.

Grammar was fine. It was not (thankfully) overwritten.

I was very pleased to note that the text chose to discuss sensitive cultural issues in a very elegant manner.

Here's the thing about communication: The rules don't change much. Business Communication is all about getting the right information to the right person at the right time. What does change, is the technology we use to make it happen. It is nearly impossible to publish anything current that covers everything one needs to to about current methods of communicating using technology. The information is too "bleeding edge" and changes so quickly, that it would be out-dated almost immediately. The thing that this book does (and does very well) is stick to the basic rules of communication that don't change (with the exception of the search engine page.) Nearly every other section of the book sticks very firmly to the information that students need to know that does not change on a regular basis. The information about social media/videos/tiktok/instagram/facebook/YouTube/thenextbigthing is easily imporable from the web. This division makes it almost the perfect open educational resource.

Reviewed by Christina Wooten, Business Technology Faculty, Rogue Community College on 1/3/22

Comprehensiveness rating: 3 see less

The material covered in the text is comprehensive as expected from a Business Communications text. Basics of Communication, Message, Audience, Writing, Types of Delivery, as well as three sections on different styles of presentation are included. This text does not have an index or glossary. The table of contents is thorough with chapter and section headings linked for easy navigation.

The text accurately portrays the topics covered. It appears to be overall an unbiased text. The content is, overall, error-free.

Overall, the text is up-to-date with technical information. There are some cultural points that may become outdated quickly (or could feel alienating to some students). For example, in "Demographic Traits" on page 86, there is a heavy focus on male/female as an example of a demographic trait. However, later in the same chapter, a lengthy discussion on "mutuality and non-judgmental-ism" ensues. Chapter 9 covers "up-to-date" communication methods used in the business arena very well. These include text, email, netiquette, memos, letters, proposals, reports, resume, and sales messages. Chapter 18 covers Intercultural Communication. My concern with this section is the references used are from 1958 and 2005. I feel strongly that there are more recent examples of references that could be used.

Clarity rating: 3

The text is written clearly with many bold faced words. There is no glossary or side-bar definitions, so the student would need to be informed to look the words up in a different dictionary.

The book is consistent in terminology, ideology, and framework throughout. The flow would be easy for a student to follow through a course.

The text is laid out in such a way that reading assignments could easily be created. Also, the text is broken up with exercises and images (most of which are relevant, clear, and correctly cited.) While some sections of the text do not have images, the blocks of text are broken up into nice sized sections with headings.

One change I would make if I were to use this text would be as follows: Chapter 18: Intercultural and International Business Communication is the next to last chapter in the book. I would place this far earlier (around the section where Sender/Receiver and Audience are discussed). This was the only place in the text where the material appeared (or felt) "out of order" for overall flow.

The links provided in the chapters and in the additional resources all work accurately. Images are clear and mostly related to text. There are two images that could be changed to a better image (one is the iceberg in Figure 3.4 the second is a clip art type image in Figure 9.6 which looks strangely out of place.

I did not notice any glaring grammar issues or errors.

I did not notice any examples that could be exclusive other than the gender example previously mentioned. There are several images which appear culturally inclusive.

The exercises though out the book (questions) are excellent starter questions for online discussion forums. The "Additional Resources" links at the conclusion of each chapter are excellent and offer the student (and instructor) many additional resources for class. There is no glossary or index for this text.

Reviewed by Steven Bookman, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Pace University on 6/23/21

The text covers all areas in addition to topics (e.g., ) not always covered. However, I wish some topics have more coverage (i.e., business modalities) while others have less. Overall, the this text is good for an introductory business writing... read more

Content is accurate, error-free and unbiased.

The content is up-to-date. However, I wish the book was updated, so that it includes social media. Having said this, necessary updates would relatively easy and straightforward to implement. I had to bring in my own examples and case studies from other sources to supplement the text.

The author writes this text in a lucid, accessible prose, and provides adequate context for any jargon/technical terminology used.

The text is internally consistent in terms of terminology and framework.

The text is easily and readily divisible into smaller reading sections that can be assigned at different points within the course (i.e., enormous blocks of text without subheadings should be avoided).

The topics in the text are presented in a logical, clear fashion.

The text is free of significant interface issues, including navigation problems, distortion of images/charts, and any other display features that may distract or confuse the reader. There are a few options to read the book as well.

The text contains no grammatical errors.

The text is not culturally insensitive or offensive in any way although there could be some text with diversity, as this is a big issue these days. In the book's defense, it can easily be updated since it was written in 2015.

Reviewed by Karen Gaines, Associate Professor, Kansas City Kansas Community College on 5/7/21

The book is pretty thorough with the topics that are covered. In fact, there are topics in the presentation sections that are not normally covered in the business communications textbooks that I currently use. The order in which the subjects are presented is different than what I have been used to, and wanted to know if there was a particular reason for some of the ordering of subject matter.

Information is accurate and free of errors and bias.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

The information is relevant and timely. However, there should be more focus on virtual meetings, etiquette, how to productively run them, etc. and how to better engage others as there is less in-person interaction.

It was written in a clear and concise manner. The narrative was conversational and engaging.

Found the writing to be consistent throughout the book.

This book was easy to get to the specific information within each chapter with the use of subsections. Though there were some sections where they were text heavy, the use of the headings helped to break up the information into more visually appealing and practical hunks of information.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 4

It is easy to follow, but I am more used to having examples of writing styles (routine, persuasive, negative) grouped together earlier in the book.

This was an easy to navigate the book.

I did not see any grammatical errors.

The text is inclusive in its depiction of different groups of people.

Are there instructor resources available such as PowerPoints, more in-depth assignments, videos, and tests?

Reviewed by Terianne Brown, Lecturer, Hawaii Community College on 4/20/21

This is a thorough book but could benefit from certain chapters being expanded and others being condensed. read more

This is a thorough book but could benefit from certain chapters being expanded and others being condensed.

There are no issues with bias and no errors are evident.

There are a few references to outdated social media platforms, however, the text can be easily updated without taking away from the message of the contents.

The book uses appropriate language suitable for all readers.

The book has a consistent format. Headings and subheadings are standardized, as well as key terms being bolded.

The book can benefit by expanding the sections in Chapter 9 into individual chapters.

The book is well-organized and is easily followed.

Multiple interfaces are available and no immediate issues are evident. It was easy to Zoom into images in the online and digital pdf versions of the book.

There are no evident grammatical errors.

There are no direct references to specific races. The text does refer to race as something to consider in business communication but contains nothing culturally insensitive or offensive.

This is a well-written text that is well-suited for an Introductory to Business Communication course. The book could be improved by including more images and/or infographics to make it more interesting and less text-heavy.

Reviewed by Sharon McDermot, Business Adjunct, Northern Essex Community College on 3/18/21

The book is very comprehensive but I wish there were more coverage of business writing in different modalities. They do touch on texting and email but I think there needs to be more information on those subjects. The book does discuss business... read more

I did not see any inaccuracy.

This book was written in 2015. Many things have changed in business communication. I would like to see it updated to include the use of social media in business and how important that can be to the success of a business.

The book had good clarity.

The text was consistent with terminology and framework.

The text is easily broken up into smaller assignments and chapters.

The book can easily be arranged to prepare for a class using progression.

I did not see any interface issues nor did I have any problems with it.

The book does have chapters on intercultural communication which is great. I have been looking for that in an OER textbook.

If this book were revised to a more current date and included the social media aspect of business communication, I think it would be very useful. It does contain a lot of good information.

Reviewed by Dee Fretwell, Associate Professor, Southern Oregon University on 1/5/21

The subject is well covered for the introduction to Business Communication, with a gap in addressing very specific etiquette around professional communication via digital formats, such as emails, project management software, etc. until mid-way... read more

Quite on point! I was impressed with the direct nature of the content and the broad audience types the curriculum was trying to reach.

Nicely written for readers of all ages from many backgrounds.

Clean, concise and grammatically on point.

Consistency rating: 4

I noted no inconsistencies.

Chapters were broken up nicely with graphics and such, allowing the reader to not fatigue as quickly as they might otherwise.

Pretty well done, with a request to begin examples of proper business writings earlier in the chapters.

Easy, clean and totally relevant.

Seemed appropriate to me!

Well done! Will likely use next term!!

Reviewed by Katherine Hatzis, Senior Lecturer II, University of Massachusetts Boston on 6/27/20

The book covers everything that one would want to teach in a business communication course. read more

The book covers everything that one would want to teach in a business communication course.

As far as I could tell the book is accurate and free of error and biases.

The book is up to date and it can be easily updated in the future.

The writing is clear and it does not use difficult language so this text would be appropriate for ESL or International business students as well.

I enjoyed the fact that the book used the same format throughout. It started with learning objectives and ended with takeaways and exercises.

The text was well divided into smaller sections which can help when assigning reading homework.

The book was well organized and straightforward. I like that it has a table of contents which helps with reading through the material.

The book's interface was fine. I just wished it was linked at the bottom of the page rather than having to constantly to go back to the main menu to go be able to move and read the next section or chapter. I had to keep going back to the main menu when I wanted to go to the next section of the same chapter. I think it would have been easier if it had a link at the end of the section that connected the next section.

I did not notice any grammar errors.

The book appears to be culturally neutral.

Overall it is a good general Business Communication textbook and it has a lot to offer. This is a textbook that I am going to incorporate into my courses. The only thing that I didn't like was navigating through the textbook.

Reviewed by Kathleen Berry, Adjunct Professor, Massasoit Community College on 6/23/20

The text covers all areas of the subject appropriately. read more

The text covers all areas of the subject appropriately.

I found very few typos. The information was clearly unbiased.

Although the book was updated last year, I think it could use a little updating in both photos and information.

Any jargon that may have been used was explained thoroughly.

The information is consistent. However, it is duplicated in many chapters.

Most of the book is strictly text with limited images.

The book is organized in a clear fashion. However, when I used it, I did teach out of order.

The text does not indicate any interface issues.

I did not find any grammatical errors.

I did not find any culturally offensive material.

I would have liked to see more information about diversity and inclusion in the textbook. The pre- and post- exercises in each chapter were beneficial. Students would have preferred a way to annotate the textbook when reading it.

Reviewed by Alison Schirone, Adjunct Faculty, Roxbury Community College on 6/4/20

I used this book for a recently business communications course. Generally speaking, the book had all the requisite basics of business communications. I added a few modules to address today's social mediums in more detail. A great free text,... read more

Highly accurate, may be due for an update soon, just to bring things more current to how today's business communicators operate.

I studied business communications many moons ago. Some aspects of it have not changed since then; but we do have more social business communications mediums. The book can easily adapt to incorporation of more social communications mediums.

Appropriate for first year and beyond college students and community college students and/or management trainees.

Loved the questions prior to the start of the chapters; I often used them for class discussions and prompts. Good review of important aspects of each chapter. Good homework assignment ideas.

I mostly covered the chapters in order. Some I put more emphasis on; others I slid through speedily. For example, I did not spend as much time on International Business Communications.

Foundation chapters first; easy to apply those concepts to all other chapters that follow. I integrated some of the more current business communications tools like Linked In, resume building, and more in the writing sections. I had students who were preparing for the workplace so it was a practical diversion from the text.

Interface rating: 3

There were some useful bits that I wanted to use as handouts but the copying of those items were a bit fussy. Perhaps consider a collection of handouts/electronic worksheets?

I did not notice grammatical errors.

Ethnicity/race neutral. We had a great collection of people from diverse backgrounds in my course when I used this book, so we were able to apply some of the cultural communications ideas into discussion and assignment. I do think that perhaps some of the aspects of diversity could be updated to better reflect today's issues and people.

I did enjoy using it. I would have liked to see more updated business communications methods in use today, especially social mediums. I would have liked to see a workbook or case to be worked throughout the term. Slides would have been a plus! Overall, I enjoyed using it and it was my first OER text.

Reviewed by Adam Falik, Assistant Professor, SUNO on 4/27/20

The greatest asset of this book (and occasionally its weakness) is its attempt to be all encompassing. It definitely seeks comprehensiveness, to introduce a complete spectrum of business communication methodology. This is often effective. The book begins linguistically, introducing concepts of language and communication, shifts to audience and tone before touching upon actual writing. The move to presentation and group dynamics is in keeping with the wide-spectrum the book covers. Sometimes, though, this attempt at comprehensiveness results in the book being dilettantish. I am interested in this book as a textbook for a class in Professional and Technical Writing. My review should be seen through that lens.

Content is accurate enough, though sometimes thin. In Chapter 9: Business Writing in Action, for instance: What is provided is accurate, just somewhat inadequate. 9.2 covers Memos and Letters, but there are many types of business memos/letters. A more thorough exploration per section (instead of, for example, Section 6.3 Making an Argument then much later Section 17.2 Delivering a Negative News Message) would have been welcome. Again, the content is accurate, but it is necessary to hop, skip and jump around to make use of this book. Also, there is a serious lack of examples in this book. Show us some actual business letters, reports, etc. This is a serious deficiency.

This book needs updating to more thoroughly address evolutions in technologies. Business communications are (obviously) more digital than ever. It would be a service for this book to reflect more current communications, including how social media plays in the contemporary cultural and business landscape. As I write this review from the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Zoom and Skype meetings reign. Let’s see an exploration of these types of presentation environments.

The writing of this book is clear and accessible. There are, in fact, gems of writing to be found throughout. Section 4.4 Style in Written Communication, for instance. Here concepts of communication are clearly articulated enough to additionally demonstrate how writing inaccuracies leads to business miscommunications.

The book is consistent in its style, framework, and the rhythms of its language. It does, occasionally, repeat itself. Section 6.3 Making an Argument repeats itself (not just in ideas, but in complete pages) in Chapter 14.

There is a dependable structural modularity. A student can expect not only a clear, steady framework of Objectives, Takeaways and Exercises, but, most valuably, thorough chapter Reference sections.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 3

This is one of my chief issues with this book (besides the lack of practical workplace examples). The book is big and exploratory, but will require (for my purposes) a great deal of jumping around to make use of. I do not love its organization. Though it does build logically, many of its integral concepts are scattered throughout the book’s many chapters. The lack of index also weighs heavily.

Because this book requires a great deal of jumping around, I wish the interface was a little friendlier, more convenient. Internal, conceptual links would have been welcome. As certain ideas are linked (to inform, to persuade), internal links would have been appreciated. I often find myself having to scroll back to Contents.

This is a well-written and clear book without major grammatical issues.

Much like its technological relevancy, our culture shifts too quickly to give this book the highest marks. Though Chapter 18: Intercultural and International Business Communications is welcome, it does not address the truly identity-charged workplace atmosphere.

I will give this book a try for a Professional Writing class. I am curious to see what students make of it. I find it too expansive, its attempt to be all-encompassing creating qualitative and theoretical deficiencies, and its lack of actual workplace examples a serious deficit, but it does make easy access to core principles in accessible language. A final (negative) comment: The Exercises are often laughable. Their vagueness is connected to the book’s overall lack of practical workplace examples. If the student cannot see an example of how an actual business letter (for instance) is written, how can the book offer practical exercises that can be visualized? Though the book covers a great deal, an instructor had better be prepared to provide their own examples.

Reviewed by Megan Fitzmaurice, Adjunct Assistant Professor, University of Texas at Arlington on 4/22/20

This textbook address written, oral, nonverbal and interpersonal communication at large. Many business communication textbooks focus solely on written and oral communication, so including these other dimensions brings an important nuance to this subject. It also includes the foundational chapters for some of the most common business communication assignments: writing preparation, composition, and revision, business, delivering negative news, team communication, business presentations, etc.

Note: no index or glossary is provided.

Overall, I found no major inaccuracies in the book’s content. Chapter 2’s discussion about the parts of a message though is quite confusing – it is hard to discern what type of messages it is referring to. At some points in the section it seems like they are discussing formal written communication and speeches, while at other times any general kind of message. It isn’t well connected to the rest of the chapter and the explanation is not thorough enough. In general, I think this chapter could better connect fundamental theories about language to the business sphere specifically.

Like any textbook, incorporating technological advancements is a double-edged sword. Ignoring it is foolish, but discussion surrounding specific technologies is often obsolete by the time the book is published. I thought they did a great job not making and part of the text centered on specific technologies, but focused on timeless business communication principles. This should keep the book up to date for sometime.

Some of the included discussion questions are a little outdated. While the content in this textbook is really strong, the included learning exercises and discussion prompts are less helpful. For example, chapter 2 begins with a vocab-matching exercise that includes words such as “phat,” “ player,” “hooptie,” etc.

The language used in this textbook is very accessible for undergraduate students from a wide range of academic backgrounds. It does not assume a student has taken a communication course before, so I think it would work for a general education course. It also ties in theories and vocabulary from many subsets of communication (rhetoric, organizational communication, interpersonal communication, etc.) so it could also be a good choice for classes directed at communication majors.

The chapters are all organized in parallel structure and engage the same terminology. Specifically, chapters 4-7 build on each other and provide a consistent vocabulary and framework through which to teach writing as a process, not a product.

Chapters 1-15 could easily be grouped into three modules: Introduction to Communication, Writing in Business Settings, and Speaking in Business Settings. Chapters 16-19 are a little bit of a grab-bag with regard to their topics. I would think Chapter 17: Negative News and Crisis Communication would be better placed after Chapter 14: Presentations to Persuade. I think having overarching modules would help learners better understand the skills and objectives to be learned through the textbook. Within each chapter though are very distinct sub-sections that do help with modularity, allowing you to easily break up a chapter's reading over the course of a week.

Chapters are well structured. Each one begins with a brief introduction, and then is followed by several subsections. Each subsection starts with clear learning objectives, followed by the main content, key takeaways, and then learning exercises. While acquiring images is a challenge for all open-source textbooks, this one seems particularly text heavy. More charts and diagrams would help with readability.

I read through the book using both a PDF on a computer screen. The text was clear and easy to read. One thing that would be helpful would be including page numbers with the internal hyperlinks – the PDF did not allow me to just click on the blue links that would take the reader to other parts of the textbook (i.e., “Note 2.1 “Introductory Exercises”).

Some charts and graphs are fuzzy, while others could be adjusted for better formatting. For example, the chart on pg. 60 has the last 1-2 letters of the word listed on the subsequent line for several entries. This same issue was not apparent when I looked through the chapter on UMN’s website, so it may be an issue limited to the PDF version of the book.

I was impressed that the hyperlinks to additional resources at the end of each chapter were still active. The book does provide a good number of articles and websites at the end of each chapter for review.

Very small issue, but the references at the end of the chapters need to be reformatted with a hanging indent and consistent margins. Otherwise, I found no glaring grammatical errors or typos.

The book does do a really good job of incorporating a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. The authors have successfully worked to provide a global perspective on business communication. Rather than just incorporating snippets or vignettes in a couple chapters, they actually have a whole chapter dedicated to intercultural and international communication. Moreover, diversity is not just conceived of in racial or ethnic terms, but the authors make sure to incorporate identity topics related to gender, sexuality, age, and disability as well.

Overall, I would definitely consider using this textbook in my Professional and Technical Communication course. The textbook covers all major aspects of business communication – writing, speaking, and team communication, in addition to other important elements like interpersonal communication and nonverbal communication. The book is accessible for an undergraduate audience and uses engaging and relatable examples throughout the text. Each chapter is well organized with distinct subsections which would give the instructor flexibility in how they wanted to assign the text. The drawbacks to using this text include a lack of supplemental teaching resources, minimal graphics in the text, and lackluster chapter exercises. Given students’ preference to learn through group interaction and discussion anyways, these are drawbacks easily made up for in the classroom.

Reviewed by Amanda Carpenter, Associate Professor, John Tyler Community College on 3/30/20

This text was exceptionally well written and very comprehensive. The author was very eloquent in the way that they explained the content. The text covered critical topics for business communication. The book includes learning resources and... read more

The text was timely and accurately overviewed of jobs in communication as well as an overview of business norms.

The content of the text is still relevant today. The text could benefit from a section related to social media usage for businesses. The digital age requires this for those in business communications.

The book was well-written and concise. I was unable to get the search option to work on my Kindle.

I found no inconsistencies in the textbook.

This text is easy to sort into modules for course instruction. I could use the groupings of this text in my course.

Overall, the text was well organized and flowed well.

I had issues using the search option within Kindle with this text. It would be great if that function could be enabled.

Grammatical Errors rating: 4

The text was well written, and I found no grammatical errors.

The text is culturally relevant and would be very useful in business communication courses.

This text is an excellent resource for communications instructors.

Reviewed by Miriam Gershow, Senior Instructor II, University of Oregon on 6/6/19

Covers a broad array of business communication topics, from foundations of language, audience and rhetoric to common types of written and verbal business communications. read more

Covers a broad array of business communication topics, from foundations of language, audience and rhetoric to common types of written and verbal business communications.

Does an accurate job describing norms and responsibilities for different types of business communication tasks.

The real challenge is to stay up to date with technology. References to MySpace and parenthetical explanations of terms such as LOL date the information.

The prose is accessible and clear. Many of the Learning Objectives and Key Takeaways suggest an introductory-level rather than upper-level course.

The framework is clear and consistent throughout.

In considering this text for a Business Writing course, there are clearly chapters and sections that can be parted out for that purpose alone.

As with the consistency, the organization of material is intuitive, clear, and a strength of this text.

I read this book on two different devices, and the interface was clear on both.

No notable errors.

I was glad to see that inter- and intra-cultural communication was addressed throughout the book, not relegated only to the second-to-last chapter.

Reviewed by Shawn Gilmore, Senior Lecturer, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign on 5/14/19

The text descriptively covers nearly all the requisite topics and subtopics under the banner "business communication," as well as a number of related rhetorical and conceptual approaches that are fairly typical in the field. The text is divided into fairly compartmentalized chapters, which could be selectively assigned, but this leads to some issues of repetition across the full book, as well as some difficulty finding specific material. The text does not contain an index, though the table of contents is good, and the full text is searchable.

Most of the descriptive material is quite good, succinct, and explanatory, making it pretty easy to follow. The prose is fairly conversational, which makes some of it dated (slang from the mid-2000s, for example), but allows for the conceptual and practical material to shine. Most of the content appears clear and accurate, if sometimes selective.

Some aspects of the text are dated by their cultural and technological references--this is a perennial issue for texts that describe how to use specific software, document types and methods, etc. None of these passages seemed debilitating, and could likely be avoided by assigning chapters or sections selectively across the text.

The text is clearly written throughout, relying on a few pages of prose per section, which are well-segmented, and followed by "key takeaway" boxes and exercises. Jargon is used selectively and well-explained.

The text is presented in a consistent fashion, but varies in terms of depth and type. The sections on business communication and approaches are clearest and most consistent. Those on rhetorical approaches and issues vary from rhetorical theory to interpersonal analysis and considerations, which makes them feel a bit more scattered.

The text is quite modular, and selections or chapters could easily be grouped for different teaching purposes/approaches.

The text takes nearly a hundred pages to really get to writing and communication specifics, and it is not entirely clear why some (of the 19) chapters appear where they do. This might be to allow individual instructors a good deal of flexibility, but it also might leave some a bit at sea.

This might be the text's weakest point. The text is well-formatted and presented, but it is a lot of repetitive-looking material, with little breaking up the few formatting and interface choices that have been made. This is alleviated in other texts by the inclusion of example documents--which are very rare here--or by varying page layouts. Students and instructors alike might find it hard to parse some of the more visually-similar passages, though there are some tables and images periodically that help.

There were no significant or glaring grammatical issues.

Efforts seem to have been made to include a variety of cultural inclusion as appropriate. However, this text might need more framing for students for whom English is not their primary language, or who have been educated in other systems/backgrounds.

This is an easy text to recommend for more experienced instructors, as they may have assignments, exercises, and example documents already at hand. However, glaringly, this textbook doesn't quite have enough material to be as comprehensive as I would have liked, though it does include exercises after each section. This may depend on the other course materials already in play, and the text would serve very well in most business writing courses, given the right conditions.

Reviewed by Bonnie Buchanan, Associate Professor, OhioLink on 3/28/19

From A to Z, the main communication topics and concepts are covered in this text. From the basics of the communications model to group work effectiveness, this book has the components to teach students important skills they will need in the... read more

I was not able to find inaccurate information, based upon my background and ares of expertise. Information was accurate, supported and relevant to the subject.

Business communications, different speeches with different areas of focus and team work skills will always be relevant. Didn't see enough information on distance/telecommuting and communicating via video.

The text was written in a very straight-forward fashion and should be easily understood by most college students.

The activities and assignments found in each chapter are great and easy for students to quickly find. They are consistent among each chapter and offer relevant activities to reinforce learning. The text chapters were consistent in their layout, form and function.

Well-organized, easy to navigate and aligned with chapter objectives in a consistent fashion.

Topics are well-presented and done so in a logical format/layout. The topics/chapters flow nicely from one to the next.

I found all links working properly and all images used supported the subject and topics in the text.

Well-written, concise and succinct text. Free of major grammatical errors.

I did not find the text offensive or insensitive and found it to include a variety of examples so that no one group might feel excluded or offended.

I really enjoyed reviewing this text and think that countless students can benefit from the information and concepts it contains. From the basics, to targeted speech formats, all areas vital to good business communication skills are covered. I would have liked to have seen a formal proposal chapter, but overall, I would recommend this book for business programs and courses that want to engage students and teach them important skills vital to their success.

Reviewed by Cara Chang, Instructor, Leeward Community College on 2/10/19

This textbook was comprehensive in the sense that it covers broad concepts in communication and then narrows down specifically to business writing and oral communication. This semester, when I used part of this textbook for my business writing class, I had to find and create more examples for my students to view and analyze. Though the content in this text is good, I wish more examples were given in this textbook.

Furthermore, though this textbook does explain how to write a resume, memo, letter, business proposal, and report, it does not include any information on how to improve writing style or mechanics. If my students needed help with grammar, they would need to consult other resources for this.

There wasn’t an index or glossary, but there was a Table of Contents, which made it easy to navigate.

This text was unbiased and free from error. It covered a range of topics in a consistent manner.

I do think the information in this text is relevant. However, I did wish there were sections on other types of business writing. In my classes, I had my students create a website and blog, which to me, are important parts of business writing. Chapter 9, which shows Business Writing in Action covers other parts of business writing, which I taught and assigned to my students, but I also told students that blogging and creating a website are also important parts of maintaining a business. In this digital age, more topics related to online writing is necessary. It would be an easy addition.

The text is written in lucid, accessible prose. It would be appropriate for many different audiences: a business writing class, an oral communication class, etc.

This text was consistent in terminology and framework.

When teaching with this text, I had an easy time breaking up information and chunking it into sections that made it easy for my students to digest. I was also able to breakup information and organize in a way that best fit the flow and schedule of my teaching. The Table of Contents/headings made it easy to see how the text is organized, so anyone who wants to jump around and customize their teaching is able to.

The structure of the text is presented in a logical and clear fashion. It begins by explaining what effective business communication is and then moves to identifying what effective business writing looks like. Next, the text explains how to write different forms of business writing, clarifies different presentation strategies, and explores group communication.

This book is easy to navigate with clear headings. There was no problems accessing the text and viewing the images.

I did not notice any grammatical errors.

Cultural Relevance rating: 3

The book is not insensitive or offensive to any cultures, but it does not have many references to various races, cultures, etc. Incorporating different examples could be especially important in the International and Intercultural Business Communication chapter.

The main page states that the textbook is available in multiple formats, but I was only able to access it as a Pressbook and as a PDF. I do feel that more images and media can be added.

Reviewed by Kara Wicklund, Instructor, Lead Instructional Designer, Bethel University on 11/13/18

This book covers almost of all the topics I need to cover in my Business Communication course. The index is clear and easy to navigate, and the chapters are clearly labeled. read more

This book covers almost of all the topics I need to cover in my Business Communication course. The index is clear and easy to navigate, and the chapters are clearly labeled.

This textbook is error-free and accurate. It handles informative text with clarity and analyzes communication problems by applying concepts, without leaning too much on a specific bias.

The content in this text is specific and clear, and it it up-to-date. It is general enough, however, that it should remain generally relevant for several years. Some sections discuss the use of written and/or electronic communication, noting the prevalence (in percentages) of these communication forms in certain settings. These details may change or become outdated over time, but the general topic will likely remain relevant.

The clarity of this text is one of its strongest features. New vocabulary works are typed in bold and defined as well as supported with examples and/or cases to illustrate their context. Paragraphs are well-structured and easy to read, and sentence flow is easy for readers.

The text adheres to the same structure throughout each chapter. Concepts are referred to and applied in consistent ways throughout the text.

Modularity is another great strength of this text. It is easy to assign chapters and sections out of order, avoid a section, or substitute a section for another resource due to the self-sufficiency of the sections. Sections generally begin, develop, and wrap up concepts clearly within each section so students don't need to rely on other chapters/sections in the text to further explain the topic.

While I did not utilize the sections in this book the way the chapters are organized, they do seem organized overall in a logical fashion. Within the chapters, the information is laid out in a clear manner. Typically the chapters begin with basic concepts and vocabulary and then proceed to application. In some chapters, there are cases for students to read about, as well. This progression seems very effective for readers.

This book is very easy to navigate. The chapters are easy to locate and the images and text display well on screens.

There were no grammatical errors in this text.

This text has a strong focus toward the end of the book on culture and communication. In addition to handing interpersonal communication dynamics, the book includes a chapter regarding Intercultural and International Business Communication. This chapter explores cultural characteristics of communication and how these characteristics impact communication, both personally and in the workplace.

Reviewed by George Boone, Visiting Assistant Professor, Augustana College on 11/13/18

Overall, the book covers a wide range of topics. However, it offers breadth over depth, which is fine for an introductory business communication course. It lacks an index section, however, so unless your students know how to search a PDF for... read more

The book provided very accurate overviews of different theories and positions on communication.

The book had multiple examples, although some of the references might feel a bit dated for our students (ie. the Bush examples, for instance). However, the author could easily update the examples with more recent events.

The book was very clear and easy to understand.

The book has the strong ability to present multiple ideas relevant to business communication (and its underlying communication research) without getting lost in the theoretical differences that might go along with these different perspectives. Ultimately, those looking for a deeper theoretical look at the book will need to look elsewhere. More pragmatically oriented classes, however, will benefit from this instructional approach.

The book has nice chapter and section breakdowns with clear headings and effective demarcations.

The book needs a bit more explicit logic to chapter order. As a reader, I do not have a clear sense as to why chapters appear in a particular order. Perhaps overall chapter groups or headings might help resolve this issue.

The interface for the book has no issues that I noticed.

I did not notice any grammar issues.

I did not notice any particularly offensive texts or ideas.

Overall, the book provides a strong and pragmatic approach to communication in business and workplace contexts. I would gladly adopt it as a general text for a low-level 100 or 200 level course. Teachers looking for more in depth analysis of studies or more theory-driven analysis, however, might find the book lacking.

Reviewed by Jason Harper, Senior Lecturer and International Coordinator, Fort Hays State University on 11/12/18

The contents do offer instructors a comprehensive list of key writing areas that should be covered in a college writing class. For example, it includes topics like writing styles, active reading, writing a summary, and assessing writing situations to more practical areas like conventions, revision, and checklists. It also includes discussions on common challenges for multilingual and ESL writers from diverse backgrounds. Perhaps an instructor might see these as good guideposts, yet this reviewer believes that supplemental materials will be needed for a more in-depth and detailed coverage of these areas. Overall, the text is useful as a starting point for teaching to her/his strengths and contexts.

One of the outstanding strengths that this textbook offers is its lack of bias. The coverage given to the writing process and its practices is also particularly good -- something not often included in business communication-related texts.

Coverage of text messages, E-mail, and how social customs influence the ways we interact with each other in the online environment will not be difficult to update, as these norms and mores are changing by the minute. As these change, this textbook can still apply as strong beginning points for discussion in class.

Overall, a detailed process of business communication is shown in readable and clear style. Vocabulary and terminology is covered and there are avenues for instructors to add on.

Business Communication for Success is a consistent collection of significant skill sets accented by "Key Takeaways" that correlate well with the topic at hand. The book’s use of multiple sub-chapters helps to make the textbook much more detailed. While at times the bland blocks of content may render the page a bore, the instructor can breathe life into what is considered by many to be a dull subject. The creators' knowledge of the topic is obvious throughout the book. The credibility of the content is strengthened by the consistency.

The orderliness of the book conforms to an academic curriculum. While the chapters create neat packages, some skills to be taught can be better covered by the instructor creating additions to the chapter or by adding additional sections. Overall, the textbook provides well-organized material and content, which is held well by clear chapter numbers.

The organization of the book lends itself well to the study of business communication. Each chapter is broken down into sections, which typically fit logically into the topic of the chapter. All chapters are composed of several defining parts that maintain a sense of continuity throughout the volume. The Key Takeaways" sections leads refers well back to the introduction and the chapter goals.

With so few graphics in the book overall, display features are subsequently not so much of an issue. Within the text of the chapter, there are at times photo boxes that assist the learner in understanding particular points. Unfortunately, the open-sourced photos may also confuse readers when they are not as well-paired as a paid photo might have been. Navigation is not at all difficult, as the chapters are clearly segmented and there is a drop-down "Contents" bar for finding other sections fast. However, the textbook's overall appearance is quite bland.

It's refreshing to see a textbook so carefully edited. Once a textbook is provided to students, a certain expectation of correctness and clarity is expected, and cleanly edited chapters must be in place when teaching the units and individual lessons. This does not mean that the opportunity for learning about errors is lost -- even the cleanest of texts might still contain a hiccup here or there. Yet, with the goal being teaching toward the learning needs of the students in our classrooms, we educators need to set good examples for those educational needs and show, not tell, good grammar, without losing sight of the end goal.

Chapter 18 is pretty in-depth about the intercultural/international aspect. While certainly not comprehensive, variety of races, ethnicity, and backgrounds is addressed in general terms in Chapter 18 as strong beginning points for discussion in class. As stated as a Key Takeaway in 18.3, "All cultures have characteristics such as initiations, traditions, history, values and principles, purpose, symbols, and boundaries," and the instructor could certainly work with the class to develop how this applies or cold apply in different contexts.

Reviewed by Margarette Connor, Adjunct Assistant Professor, Lehman College/CUNY on 6/19/18

This text covers all the areas I would want to cover in my 300-level business writing class, including non-verbal communications and international communications, two topics I find are often underrepresented in many texts. Very clear and... read more

I've read a good portion of the book and find it accurate and error-free. Excellent quality.

I have been teaching business writing for over 20 years, and while the methods of communication have changed, how we write hasn't really. This book is certainly up to date, but not so much so that it will be obsolete within the next few years.

I would have liked to have seen a little more on online writing--blogs, websites, digital white papers--because while we can always upload a PDF of a traditional report to a website, many Millenials read differently and have different expectations of what they will read on the internet. This might be my personal soapbox, though, and the materials here can be easily adapted.

I very much like the writing in this book as I find it clear and to the point, much more so than the text I had been previously using. I think my students will find this more accessible. My students are mostly junior or senior business majors, and while there is jargon in the text, by this point, this is part of my students' professional vocabulary, so nothing that I find alienating for students.

Many of my students like pared down yet comprehensive texts, and I think they'd like this. They don't like to "waste" time with "unnecessary" material.

Very good job with consistency.

The modularity of the text is very well done. As I was reading it, I had the feeling that my students would find this easier to access than our current text. I can already see the course syllabus falling into place. Although I see myself changing the order of the text, I think jumping through the book will be quite easy.

The flow of the chapters is clear and logical, and while I'd change things, isn't that what we do as professors? I've never used a text book as if it were a novel.

Clear, easy to use. I've used other online texts, and I found this one to be very user friendly.

I am a stickler for grammar, and I found no errors in my reading. That's sadly rare!

There was nothing culturally insensitive or offensive in the parts of the text I read, which was much.

I am definitely adopting this book for my business writing course next term. It has everything my students need from a text at a price they can afford. That has been a problem for many. I actually like this text better as I think it's clearer and easier to follow. Excellent choice for an upper level business writing course.

Reviewed by Shannon Breske, Assistant Teaching Professor, University of Missouri on 6/19/18

Business Communication for Success provides an overview of the main areas of communication and highlights additional resources at the end of each chapter. When reviewing other texts, this text is consistent with topic areas covered. The text is organized well and can be navigated seamlessly with how each section is labeled. Students found this text easy to use, comprehend, and then able to apply knowledge to their assignments and in-class work.

Content is accurate. Consistent topics covered in Business Communication in Success text compared to other Business Communication texts. Some references, activities, and examples could be updated to provide a more inclusive tone.

The text is up to date but could include more details on how to communicate using social media platforms as well as customer relationship management (CRM) software. Could add the importance of how to successfully develop a communication plan using CRM.

Easy to read, understand, and apply. Students found it easy to read the chapters and comprehend.

The text is consistent with other texts and current literature. Liked how the earlier concepts are built upon in later chapters.

The text covers a lot of information however it is easily divided into subsections and does a nice job highlighting the important pieces in each area. Organized extremely well and easy to navigate through the online text.

Great job on the organization of the text. Found it clear and logical.

The interface is basic but functional and meets the needs of the user.

Well written. I did not find any grammatical errors.

Some references, activities, and examples could be updated to provide a more inclusive tone.

Great text! I use for 400+ students in an introductory course, and it is a great option. I supplemented additional information for class materials but overall extremely satisfied with text.

Reviewed by Alicia Edwards, Adjunct Professor, Business Management, Marketing and Communications, Northern Virginia Community College, Annadale Campus on 6/20/17

I was definitely impressed with the comprehensiveness Business Communication for Success. For every concept of the author introduced, he gave context, the why and if needed consequences if the conventions are not heeded. While there is not a... read more

Each chapter is effectively mapped out with subheadings so you could easily find the topic that you need. Because of this attention to detail, I can envision this book being an excellent resource for an entry level junior manager or a refresher for a seasoned professional as their communication needs evolve throughout their career.

In general, I felt that the author did pretty balanced job of avoiding stereotypes and clichés. He used a variety of quotes from people with origins in all parts of the world and historical periods.

This book was written in 2010 and focused more on written and verbal communication. Social media is not addressed but text, email, and netiquette were briefly touched upon. The information is still current and accurate but clearly lends itself to frequent updates. Since the bulk of business communication is online now, I would like to see at least full chapter dedicated to texting, email and internet communication. The way the book is laid out, this could be can easy addition.

Social Media is now an integral part of business communication internally and externally but it is STILL treated as an afterthought or footnote in academia. While not every platform is mainstream, the ones that are increasingly used in professional settings certainly need to be taught at the collegiate level in a comprehensive manner. LinkedIN, Twitter, Instagram and to some extent Pinterest have proven their marketing prowess and are structured enough to teach the business applications.

Since I did read the book on Apple device, Apple has built in technology that is helpful. For example, the book reference Aristotle and his concept of "ethos". While I knew he was from ancient Greece, I used the lookup feature on his name to fill in the historical timeframe that helped me fully understand what may have shaped his views. The look-up feature took me to several books, wesbites and a Wikipedia page.

While the book flows well from start to finish, the chapters and subheading are very specific and are quickly referencable. I read the book on my Ipad and I easily bookmarked pages when and highlight notes as needed. Each section can be understood independently, I didn't find myself having to reference previous chapters to make sense to the current one.

I downloaded the entire book as a PDF. It would be nice to have the option to download sections as needed.

The interface is very basic but effective. I read the book on my Ipad within the iBooks platform. I quickly find the section I wanted and go straight to whatever page I wanted. There are a lot of links to internet sites, I referenced quite a few and they seemed to load up quickly.

The charts and pictures that are included are without distortions. However, I would like to see more videos and visuals. Since readers will most likely reference this book from a laptop/phone or tablet, the assumption is that they would be able to seamlessly go from reading the material to answering the discussions via BlackBoard or whatever learning software their school adopts.

The author took the time to edit very well. I didn't see any glaring errors of any kind.

In general, I felt that the author did pretty balanced job of avoiding stereotypes and clichés. He used a variety of quotes from people with origins in all parts of the world and historical periods. I was disappointed with the slang used in Chapter 2's introductory exercises. The words used were outdated at the least and mildly offensive. All 10 examples of page 35, appeared to be derived from African American slang...certainly not inclusive. The population that attends NOVACC are very diverse culturally and linguistically so this would not go over well. Since slang and pop culture are moving targets, I would have eliminated that exercise completely and let the students self-direct this exercise by sharing slang words in their own language with the class. I would further reinforce the exercise by letting students that speak the same language but are from different countries share words that differ within their culture. I would also have them give examples of how they would speak around their peers, parents, and elders to drill down appropriateness and context.

The concepts that text introduces are consistent within each chapter and throughout the book as a whole. Other than expanding on email/text and internet communications and including social media, I did not see any gaps in knowledge. This book was written in 2010 and focused more on written and verbal communication. Social media is not addressed but text, email, and netiquette were briefly touched upon. The information is still current and accurate but clearly lends itself to frequent updates. Since the bulk of business communication is online now, I would like to see at least full chapter dedicated to texting, email and internet communication. The way the book is laid out, this could be can easy addition.

Social Media is now an integral part of business communication internally and externally but it is STILL treated as an afterthought or footnote in academia. While not every platform is mainstream, the ones that are increasingly used in professional settings certainly need to be taught at the collegiate level in a comprehensive manner. LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and to some extent Pinterest have proven their marketing prowess and are structured enough to teach the basic business applications.

Since readers will most likely reference this book from a laptop/phone or tablet, the assumption is that they would be able to seamlessly go from reading the material to answering the discussions via BlackBoard or whatever learning software their school adopts.

In general, I felt that the author did a pretty balanced job of avoiding stereotypes and clichés. He used a variety of quotes from people with origins in all parts of the world and historical periods.

I was disappointed with the slang used in Chapter 2's introductory exercises. The words used were outdated at the least and mildly offensive. All 10 examples of page 35, appeared to be derived from African American slang...certainly not inclusive. The population that attends NOVACC are very diverse culturally and linguistically so this would not go over well. Since slang and pop culture are moving targets, I would have eliminated that exercise completely and let the students self-direct this exercise by sharing slang words in their own language with the class. I would further reinforce the exercise by letting students that speak the same language but are from different countries share words that differ within their culture. I would also have them give examples of how they would speak around their peers, parents, and elders to drill down appropriateness and context.

Reviewed by Brandi Quesenberry, Advanced Instructor, Virginia Tech on 6/20/17

Solid overview of foundations of business communication. I would prefer a more advanced textbook but this text works well for a lower level or introductory course. Broad overview of both written and oral communication considerations and best... read more

Content is correct and consistent with other texts.

Due to nature of subject matter, some references will become outdated. Overall examples are current and helpful. Technology references can be easily updated due to formatting and section headings.

Clear language, easy to read, relevant examples.

Accurate use of terminology and framework.

Divided well. Only complaint is the redundancy of information across multiple chapters.

I would prefer oral communication chapters to come before written communication. Overall, flowed well.

Well written.

Relevant and diverse examples. Good discussion of cultural differences in business setting.

Good choice for an introductory business communication class.

Reviewed by Catherine Wright, Associate Professor, George Mason University on 6/20/17

It covers too many areas, would need to be "chunked" into smaller clusters. It tries to do too much for one text. read more

It covers too many areas, would need to be "chunked" into smaller clusters. It tries to do too much for one text.

I found it to be accurate.

I found it to be relevant. Since the format of Open Textbooks allows for things to be quickly updated, anything the authors found in need could be easily changed.

The overall writing in the text is great. Easy to read, easy to digest, easy to follow. It’s not taxing and presents information in a way that will engage the reader. The style is casual and informative. I found it inviting and I believe that students will want to read the chapters assigned.

I found it to be consistent with current literature and other texts.

It tries to cover too much in one text and would absolutely need to be made into modules.

Overall the organization is fine. The structure of the book in its entirety is too grand. It could/should be no less than three books.

I was easily able to gather information. I found no issues with this book.

so far, so good ;o)

This appeared to be fine too. I had no complaints.

The scope of the book, however is too broad. I would not use it for any Business Communication class that I personally taught.

The reason for this is that it focuses on several areas, which could not be adequately covered, or covered well, in one semester. I believe you would be able to do all of it at a very cursory level and none of it well in order to produce informed and prepared students. It really doesn’t cover “business.”

My recommendations for application follow: Chapters 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 could easily be one full semester, as they focus on writing. Chapters 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 are another semester, as they focus on public speaking. Chapters 16, 17, 18, and 19 are individually entire courses and almost seem extraneous here.

Part of what appeals to me about Open Textbook Library is the opportunity to take a text offered and to adjust it to make it something you could use in you class. This book has the potential to do so if the teacher reduces the number of chapters assigned during a semester. Rather than trying to do everything adequately, teachers would need to focus on only a few chapters to use this book well.

Reviewed by Rathin Basu, Professor, Ferrum College on 2/8/17

The text is quite comprehensive in its coverage of the key (and standard) topics and compares favorably with the very well known and widely used conventional text that I have been using in my Business Communications class, as well as others that I have used or reviewed in instructing the subject over the past 20 years. The sequence of the topics is somewhat different from some of the conventional texts but, over all, the content covers all aspects expected in this subject area. However, some of the important and fast developing and changing areas of communication which have developed in recent times (e.g. social media) and their models, challenges and impacts might have been included. They would also need to be discussed in the context of ethical communication as well. Another topic of importance that needed discussion is communication relating to applying for a job and preparing for interviews. A third aspect that I cover in my Business Communication class is formal business report writing, and this would need more coverage and even a chapter devoted to it. Despite these gaps, which are common to most current texts though, it generally covers the standard and essential areas of the subject well. It would have been useful, especially in an introductory text such as this, to have had a comprehensive index.

The content, in terms of the concepts and theories of communication, and the explanations and examples presented, is accurate and supported by citation of relevant and relatively recent sources. In addition, some of the seminal publications which may not be as recent but are essential sources are also referenced. There is no suggestion of any bias in the discussion and presentation of ideas and perspectives. It would have been helpful to have used colors or fonts in such a way that embedded active links could be clearly distinguished from highlighted terms. Also, if what might be more completely addressed is considered under this item, then inclusion of some of the most current, dynamic and important aspects of developments in communication especially relating to technology and society might be included.

Since the concepts and theories discussed are, in general fundamental ones, these aspects are not likely to require short-term changes. The examples used are also ones that are not limited in time or context and hence less susceptible to change. However, this does mean that some of the more dynamic areas of communication such as technology, social media, virtual teams might have been covered in greater depth given their increasingly important roles in communication. This is possibly the most important area that has been most dynamic in recent years and would need updating, when included. In addition, recent case studies of specific firms and incidents are one aspect that would be found in publisher based texts that open texts, by their nature, must sacrifice.

I found the very accessible prose and the personal and informal tone to be a particular strength of the book. Terms and jargon are explained with appropriate examples which students are generally likely to be able to relate to. In addition, not making this a reference text and overwhelming the undergraduate student with too many examples and too much detail has added to the clarity and relevance for the intended audience. The inclusion of pithy quotes, short exercises after each section, and sections and chapters which are not too long have also enhanced clarity and readability.

The text is internally consistent in terms of its tone, explanations, audience, and structure. In addition, the exercises have a consistency in framework and resulting time required to do them. The approach of starting sections with some questions which are then addressed with examples and explanations makes for an engaging, more Socratic and less pedantic method.

I found the breakdown of the topics into chapters and the chapters into sections, both of which are in sizes manageable for students, to be a strength of the text. This is contrast to many available texts which have long chapters which are dense with content, much of which is too much detail for an undergraduate course. The relatively short modules also suggested several possible ways in which I could smoothly reorganize them and use them in a class without making the sequence seem disjointed. The text draws in outside sources rather than being self-referential.

The organization of the text is something that I usually find to be one that I do not stick to, even with private market texts. The organization of the current text is also one that I would change to suit the particular circumstances of my students and institutional facilities (such as availability of the career center for mock interviews as part of course). However, with digital texts, I have had no difficulty in making the changes and even rearranging the chapters as needed.

In general, the book has no interface issues that I encountered, except the one that I found the use of the brown font for both terms (which were not live links) as well as live links was confusing. It would be helpful to have the standard blue font for the live links to distinguish them.

The book shows an appreciation of diversity and inclusion of various perspectives. Given the nature of the subject matter, which calls for discussion of various cultural perspectives, this is done in an interesting way that encourages exploration. It is particularly interesting that the cultural aspects are not confined to the standard understanding of the scope of such differences (such as races, ethnicities and nationalities) but also includes artifacts and examples which students can relate to and demonstrate that cultural differences can also be local, inter-generational, etc.

I found the text to be very readable, engaging and interesting and one that I am considering adopting. I would need to draw in some current case studies that involve relevant aspects of communication as well as introduce the topics of career related planning and communication (resume, cover-letter, job-related interviews and interviewing, follow-up), as well as formal business report writing.

Reviewed by Carrie Gay, Adjunct Professor, J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, Richmond, VA on 2/8/17

This book is very comprehensive. Contains an vast array of business communication principles applicable to today's business environment. However, there is no index or glossary which makes the book somewhat ineffective for quick reference points. read more

I found the content of the chapters accurate and up-to-date. No grammatical errors were found. Material appears unbiased with prejudice.

Once again, the material is up-to-date. I enjoyed the introductory exercises and the learning objectives presented in each section. Students know exactly what to expect in each chapter. Easy to read and comprehend.

The text is well written, easy to understand. Technical terminology was comprehendable and use of jargon was acceptable. No errors detected.

The book is consistent in its chapter presentations. I appreciated the resources presented after each chapter. Great sources of additional information if the student is interested in searching for it.

The sections were easy to read and were divided adequately. Subunits could be reorganized and realigned if need be without too much effort. Readers should still be able to follow printed material even if it has been rearranged.

This appeared to be the weakest part of the book...the chapter arrangements. I believed the last chapter of the book, Chapter 19, could have appeared somewhat earlier in the book. I compared this book to a couple of others I have seen in recent years and the flow was "off." I still say good material presented throughout, however.

Very few graphics presented in the book overall. I clicked on several Web sites and had no interface/nor navigation issues.

I found no grammatical errors during my first reading of the material which speaks well of the book and the authors/proofreaders. Well written sentences and paragraph structure.

I did not find the book culturally insensitive in any way. I asked three students of Asian, Hispanic, and African-American descent to read Chapter 18, Intercultural Communication--none were offended.

Again, I believe the book requires an index or glossary. These would make word or phrase searches less time-consuming. Perhaps review the table of contents for chapter rearrangements too.

Reviewed by Bonnie Yarbrough, Lecturer, University of North Carolina at Greensboro on 12/5/16

This text covers all areas of the subject appropriately and provides a good Table of Contents. At roughly 600 pages, coverage of the subject matter is extensive. There is no glossary, however, and the index is less comprehensive than I would have... read more

The text has been updated (2015) from the first edition. In subject matter, the text is accurate, although there are occasional mechanical errors and typos that should have been caught.

The content is up to date, but will need to keep pace with evolving technology over each year. For example, the chapter containing a long discussion of mobile communication messages will need revision next year to accommodate changes in the marketplace and in the workplace. Some of the information here is basic, almost elementary, when measured against other more specialized texts. Still, it should be easy to update; discussions could be accommodated for individual audiences.

The text is extremely clear and compelling in its discussions of the material. Each area of the field is covered substantively and with effective examples.

Consistent in its terminology and organization. Concepts introduced early in the text and followed up in later sections of the book and built upon.

This text is already divided into small reading sections and each is numbered in a clear way, manageable online. The headings are descriptive and each section has numerous graphics, video links, and "key takeaways" that provide an ongoing summary of the material covered.

The organization raised some questions. There are several chapters that could be re-arranged or collapsed and presented in a different order. "Organization and Outlines," for example, is presented long after "Revising" and "Presenting" writing.

I ran across a couple of problems with connectivity or dead links.

This is a text about business communication; the grammar is accurate and contains no errors.

The text makes a point of being culturally inclusive, particularly since that is so important in business today. The examples are relevant and illustrative--compelling.

I would recommend this text for a course particularly in oral business communication--although it also covers writing. It has numerous helpful exercises in each chapter and ideas for further exploration of the subject matter. I didn't see any options for text banks, however; I would have liked to have additional resources for quizzes.

Reviewed by Joy Koesten, Lecturer, University of Kansas on 8/21/16

This textbook is very comprehensive, both in breath and depth. I would have like more information regarding how to facilitate a meeting, ethical communication, and organizational culture. The topics were well selected, though formal speaking always seems out of place in a business communication text. While some may need to make formal presentations, the majority of workers do not. It's more likely they will need to hone their interpersonal skills and how to speak up in a group.

I did not find an index or glossary, which would have been nice.

I think some might find the use of an egalitarian approach to be biased, but not me. Otherwise, I thought the book was well written, error free and unbiased.

I think the content is relevant and up to date. I'm seems updates would be easy and straightforward.

Very clearly written. I liked that key terms were highlighted. I thought the highlighted terms were linked to a glossary, but that wasn't the case. I downloaded it in KIndle, so maybe that was the problem.

I didn't find any inconsistencies in the text.

It seems this text could easily be divided into units or sections as needed. That is what I plan to do, so I hope that this is the case.

The presentations n section seemed out of place to me. But, otherwise the organization worked fine.

the only navigation issue I ran into was when I went back and forth to the table of contents. I always had to start at the top of the table for f contents and scroll all the way to the most recent chapter. Otherwise, I was not distracted by anything else.

Well written. No grammatical errors were found.

I didn't encounter anything in the text offensive, though I don't recall an emphasis on multiculturalism or a variety of races dipicted in the visuals. There weren't a lot of photos in the book.

I am very likely to use a good portion of this text in an upcoming course.

Reviewed by Sally Stanton, Senior Lecturer, UW-Milwaukee on 8/21/16

Comparable to most business communication texts available commercially. Coverage seems to be missing of social media as business communication (mentioned as a communication channel but not otherwise addressed specifically) and of how to... read more

Comparable to most business communication texts available commercially.

Coverage seems to be missing of social media as business communication (mentioned as a communication channel but not otherwise addressed specifically) and of how to cite/attribute sources in writing and speaking (styles and methods)

No index or glossary that I could locate in the e-pub version reviewed.

Appears to be accurate, error-free, and unbiased.

Some of the communication theories seem rather outdated, given the undeniable role of social media in the digital marketplace and the instant, global nature of communication in 2016. Thus, the text does not seem to reflect the significant need for theories and approaches that address the ability of today's customers, shareholders, competitors, etc. to immediately influence businesses through immediate and very public forms of communication. A bad review on Yelp! or Trip Advisor requires thoughtful handling; organizational communications strategies for dealing with such scenarios should be presented, along with relevant theory or/or research from the professional literature on online business communication. It's no longer enough to just "understand" your audience - business communicators now have a very much two-way, real-time relationship with them.

The topics of social media and managing interactive stakeholder communication could perhaps be added in Chapter 3 or Chapter 16.

Coverage of organizational communications theory and strategies is woven into much of the text but not in an explicit way - the focus is more on developing the individual's own strategy. When that conflicts with organizational strategy, what then?

Detailed coverage of ethics/ethical communication is limited and somewhat difficult to locate (especially since there is no index or glossary) - the chapter devoted to it is very short and lacks sufficient grounding in the professional literature.

Clear and conversational, easy to read.

Consistency rating: 3

It is definitely a broad, general overview of the subject matter. In the first three chapters it covers terms and theories common to both writing and speaking, and then devotes six chapters specifically to each. I would prefer to have chapters 16-19 at the beginning of the text along with chapters 1-3, as these topics equally relate to both writing and speaking, and are very timely - specifically intercultural communication and crisis communication. (Unfortunately topics presented at the end of the text/semester often get short shrift from students, or are cut because they don't fit easily in a 15-week semester. The framework would then proceed more logically from the general to the specific.

Modularity is very good; subheadings are used frequently to break up text, especially for online readers. I was surprised not to find hypertext links other than those in the citations - but I suppose that would make it difficult to publish in multiple formats, and managing broken links would be a nightmare.

An index/glossary would be a very strong addition.

As mentioned previously, I would prefer to have chapters 16-19 at the beginning of the text along with chapters 1-3, as these topics equally relate to both writing and speaking, and are very timely - specifically intercultural communication and crisis communication.

Serviceable interface, but it didn't particularly wow me. Use of grayed lines on charts makes it hard to see, especially on a smaller digital device (let's face it, students read books on their phones and iPads). Still it seems like it would be easily customized, which is a plus.

I understand that copyright issues prevent the use of the many photographic images found in commercial texts, but I find the lack of images is one downfall of using this kind of digital text. Students seem to read increasingly less, or if they do, don't comprehend well information presented only in lengthy textual form. Meaningful images can enhance understanding.

No problems found. Conversational tone makes it accessible.

Good specific coverage of intercultural communication, although as I mentioned before, this should come earlier in the text given how critical this topic has become in a globalized economy. Examples used seem to be quite diverse and appear throughout the text, not just in the specific chapter on intercultural communication. More examples of intercultural business writing would be helpful, though.

Overall, it seems to be a useful secondary text, or one used to provide additional coverage of specific topics, rather than as a primary text. However, it is difficult to find a textbook that provides both sufficient breadth and depth of coverage whether open-source or not. So, if you are interested in "slicing and dicing" content to fit your curriculum, this text would be a good place to start.

Reviewed by Eric Dodson, Instructor of ESOL, Portland State University on 1/7/16

This book includes a review of sentence grammar, paragraph structure, process writing, rhetorical styles, principles of judging sources, and business genre forms. The grammar sections provide a backbone; generally good examples provided. The individual grammar points require supplementary material for review of more examples and grammar-focused exercises. However, there are some exercises that marry both grammar and business writing functions.

The grammar points and exercises that I browsed were accurate. Rare typos.

Business norms may change, but the main focus is on underlying writing and rhetorical competency, and any updates will be relatively easy and straightforward to implement.

Some of the grammar for native speakers seems to be targeted for students who know some grammar terms, but do not know others. For example, the term “clause” is given a rough definition, but later the term “phrase” is used without a clear definition, in the context of “prepositional phrase.”

When discussing the specific genre of business writing (Ch. 10), the text often focuses on academic writing demands. Some sections are really focused on overall rhetorical styles and classical rhetoric, with a bit of business window dressing.

\The text is organized and composed in a perfect way for picking-and-choosing chapters or sections. Important concepts that are shared by several chapters (sentence fragments, for example) are generally introduced and explained in each chapter they appear in (though with different levels of detail, depending on the chapter).

No table of contents in the document, and correspondingly, no hyperlinks between sections. The first chapter’s grammar review and the second, punctuation, offer the chance to review a wide range of sentence grammar topics, but the topics are not ordered in a sequentially logical way. For example, adjectives and adverbs are tackled after sentence fragments and other sentence-level errors (which are unanalyzable if readers do not understand basic word-level grammar). The third chapter on word choices has a similar issue.

Some editing exercises are single-spaced, which makes them very difficult to correct via pen-and-paper. Example writing often is not clearly labeled or differentiated from the main text.

Rare omitted words or punctuation (e.g., p. 141). Otherwise clear and accurate.

Occasional glimpses of a multi-cultural reality via examples or use of names from different backgrounds. However, the focus is on (presumably) North American business English demands. The only issue with this is that this is not explicitly explained, and learners would need supplemental materials in order to raise awareness of the existence of different genre expectations internationally.

This work would offer a good set of resources for introductory university student writing courses or business English for speakers of other languages. For example, Chapter 3 has a welcome list of commonly confused words. However, this work would likely be most useful as a teacher planning supplement or to provide readings/exercises on specific topics. Much of the grammatical information, including the chapter for ESL students, does not offer much application to business contexts. For example, there is a review of the concept of idioms, and some example idioms, but not commentary on how students should use them in writing, or if they should use them at all. For the presentation of grammar and mechanics, I would supplement with more genre-specific projects, but the succinct and broad overview of grammar makes a good basic resource.

Reviewed by Judy Boozer, Business Faculty/AOP Program Lead, Lane Communicty College on 1/7/16

The book is comprehensive in regards to business communication, but it lacks a table of contents, index, or glossary for ease in finding the concepts presented in it. read more

The book is comprehensive in regards to business communication, but it lacks a table of contents, index, or glossary for ease in finding the concepts presented in it.

Content Accuracy rating: 3

This book has a few errors throughout--spaces missing between words, inconsistent formatting, lack of first line indents for paragraphs, etc. The content does appear for the most part to be unbiased and often gives both sides of concepts/views of proper communication.

Because paragraphs are not indented, it makes it extremely hard to see where paragraphs begin and end.

Content is relevant to today's world, but it lacks some of the more current digital communication options available to us. This would be easy to add.

The clarity of the book is quite good. The author has done a good job of explaining all content, especially if new or unusual terminology is used.

Each chapter in this text has been organized the same way. Although it is nice to be consistent, it almost makes it boring. A list of terms used in each chapter would be helpful.

As mentioned before, there is also inconcistency with the formatting of the contents of this book.

Modularity rating: 3

The book is clearly organized by chapter content and then by objectives within each chapter's topic(s). There are times, however, when few side headings are used, which makes it difficult to comprehend the material presented.

The topics are presented in a logical manner, and they often refer to previous topics as the reader progresses through the book.

There are no interface issues, except that there is not much to excite the reader into reading. There are very few graphics, tables, charts, used. A text only book is difficult to read and comprehend.

I find almost no grammatical errors. (necessary for a book on business communication)

The book is not insensitive or offense to any cultures, but it does lack too many references to various races, cultures, etc.

This book has a wealth of information with resources provided, but it lacks those elements that appeal to those learners that require more than just reading text in order to learn a topic. There are a wealth of exercises at the end of each lesson that students can complete to gain competency in the chapter's concept(s).

Reviewed by Carolina Selva, Adjunct Faculty, BA and MSD, Portland Community College on 1/7/16

Extremely comprehensive. Covers all critical areas of business communication including electronic messages, team communication, presentation skills, and even "language." Learning resources such as exercises and activities are included - many of... read more

Accurate and timely as of the date of publishing (2010). Good blend of theoretical and practical applications bolsters credibility. I found no errors or hints of bias.

Relevant in today's dynamic business environment. Many of the principles are (almost) timeless, but the book also includes chapters on newer dynamics of communication in the current climate. These chapters (specifically the last two - on intercultural communication and teamwork) may require more review/updating in coming years than much of the other material.

Clear and to the point - as business writing should be.

Very consistent tone and voice throughout.

Absolutely divisable into specific modules in order to assign at different points. I envisioned using this text in my current Business Communication course and thus assigning chapters out of order and it would work with no problems whatsoever.

Organization/structure is logical. If I were to assign chapters in sequential order, flow would be no problem here. As mentioned in the section on modularity, however, the chapters could stand on their own provided context was present.

Good interface and easy navigation. Some of the graphical elements were not as sharp as others, and some were a bit small. Overall, the book seemed text-heavy and could use visual elements (such as white space and/or more graphics/images) throughout.

No grammatical errors - good modeling of grammar usage.

No cultural insensitivities were perceived. I was impressed with the section on intercultural communication.

Reviewed by Gail Emily Fey, Ph.D., Lecturer, Eller College of Management, University of Arizona on 6/10/15

At nearly 800 pages, the text is immensely comprehensive. It includes both pre- and post-lesson exercises. Some of the exercises seem a bit “silly”; and the author seems to prefer “fives and sixes” for just about every exercise. Still, because... read more

One especially interesting section was LANGUAGE. It was thorough enough to get the main points across but not SO deep as to be offputting to those not into linguistics. Language seems to be a topic that is often eliminated or minimized in other business communication texts.

The author includes references at the end of each chapter. Moreover, the author’s brief bio makes it clear that he has expertise in the subject of Speech and Communication. That ethos lends credibility to the text.

The overarching principles of business writing (clarity, knowing audience, understanding context, bottom line on top, concision) are not likely to change any time soon. The last 2 chapters (intercultural and teamwork) are especially relevant for the near future. According to the SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) “Changing demographics, relocation patterns and the globalization of business will be among the key trends influencing the workplace in the next five to 10 years.”

Fine job of clear writing. The author does a good job of modeling clear writing... necessary for business writers.

Since one individual authored the entire text, it has a consistent voice and tone.

Yes, the chapters can be individual modules for study.

However, as indicated below under my structural comments, really the modules are “Writing”, “Presentations”, and “Context”.

The structure can be thought of as comprising 3 parts: Background, Writing, Context. The author might consider 3 overarching headers under which to place the current chapter titles (e.g., “Writing” is the high-level category; then “Revising your Writing” would go under it. Similarly, “Context” would be the high-level category with “Intercultural and International” under it.).

The inclusion of “key takeaway” would be re-enforcing to students… especially those who read words but are not so good at making meaning of those words.

As much as I appreciated the Language section, its title of “Delivering your message” seems misleading. That title implies presentation/writing techniques. Why not entitle it simply “Using Language”?

No grammatical errors that this reviewer noticed.

Yes, absolutely. For the 21st century worker (in ANY discipline, but especially in business), communication is crucial. Warren Buffet stated that he thinks “The most valuable investment that you can make in yourself is to improve your ability to communicate. ‘Communication is enormously important; oral and written,’ said Buffett.” (Lukas Partners, posting on 3-2014, http://www.lukaspartners.com/communication-important-says-warren-buffett/).

One area that could be improved is that of visual design. The version I reviewed had next-to-no graphics. Quite possibly the no-graphics approach was an effort to prevent the book from becoming even longer.

Another formatting item that this reviewer found annoying was the omission of extra line space between paragraphs. I would vote for single line spacing within paragraphs and double line spacing between para’s to signal the reader a new paragraph was beginning.

Reviewed by Brandy A. Brown, Assistant Professor, University of Arizona on 6/10/15

I integrated this book as a supplement in a Psychology of Leadership course. Communication is such an essential leadership skill and myself and a fellow Associate Professor teaching this course found that student's skills in that area were... read more

One of my criticisms of the majority of open texts is that they do tend to fall out of date. This text uses a very simple communication model and doesn't provide additional information or models which would apply better to virtual teams and their communication.

This text is comprehensive enough to actually be used for a full business or professional communication course - several of my students chose to explore the entire book despite only being assigned specific chapters because they found it relevant and helpful to their lives, not just to their coursework.

For the majority of my students this was appropriate for their current level of knowledge. Nothing struck me as inaccurate, there were research bases for the material, however, my criticism of a lack of additional models and examples which would better apply to current prevalent business communications is appropriate for this as well (e.g. virtual distributed teams). Those would be expected in a publisher supported text.

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, this text does feel slightly limited (only one model of communication) and behind the current communication trends (virtual teams). Previous reviewer, Dr. Emery, said it perfectly, '....I'd like to see a deeper grounding in persausion, organizational communication, and business discourse."

Students found the text very clear, including my Japanese native student who struggles with English quite a bit. Another student remarked that it was an enjoyable read and that they at times found it funny. Those are quite the complement for a textbook.

The book felt like it was almost two separate books put together - which is part of why it can be considered so comprehensive. There were chapters focused on descriptions and definitions and lists, but then some which were very applied and focused on specific communications. I was able to assign these together (something I will address under modularity), but the book could have a better flow and be more narrow, given the focus of the title.

As noted under consistency the text can easily be mixed together, which is very important given the differences in certain types of chapters (list/definition chapters vs. actual applied writing chapters). I chose to assign only the chapters I felt were most relevant to the topics of leadership communication, but allowed students to do the others and provided quizzes they could complete for bonus points. They loved that approach, and how well it worked speaks to the appeal and flexibility of the text.

I did not follow the organization or structure of the text as it was in any way, that was the only challenge I found with using this text. While it was 'modular' based on the definition provided here and I did like the structure and flow of individual chapters, remixing the text was difficult and required students to find their own places in a Word document or PDF version which displayed differently than mine usually. If it were to be posted on a platform that made that easier to do that would be a large improvement.

Students registered no complaints, and overall I have no major issues with it. Nothing is distracting or confusing, but I also wouldn't rate it high on engagement (visuals are different in different formats and sometimes have issues with clarity). Students (and I) appreciated the chapter structure and outlines, but again the format to interact with the text (Word or PDF unless I find my own method to host or remix it) was limiting and not necessarily ADA compliant in the current formats.

Students commented on the accessibility of the tone, and I have found no errors.

Students in my program are often multicultural, they and I had no issues with the text. However, I am always looking for more examples to help them see the differences in cultures and how to handle communication in those instances.

This textbook saved my students and I from two large issues: 1) needing to deal with a difficult enrollment and grading interface process on another website, and 2) paying for the additional materials needed in this course on top of our current required items (which I am not able to break free from currently). It reduced both friction with our course materials and my need to be technical support, while increasing engagement through allowing students choices and the ability to pursue additional knowledge on their own. That is why texts like this one matter so very much. Many of my students struggle financially, and the option to enable them to learn more without adding any financial burden is invaluable.

Reviewed by Daniel Emery, Associate Professor of Business Communication, University of Oklahoma on 1/12/15

The book is exceptionally comprehensive, comparable to other large omnibus collections for business communication. The book would be suitable for business communication courses or business and professional speaking. It's arrangement and scope of... read more

I would describe the content as accurate and a good portion of the material presented had a clear basis in writing research. I find the author's sender/message/receiver model for communication somewhat dated theoretically, but that is also my critique of most textbooks in the area. In later chapters, the book could stand more examples from professional contexts and would benefit from thorough research in the business communication literature. I wouldn't call it inaccurate, but I find it underdeveloped.

Several of the examples and allusions are recent and relevant, but the development of the content is not what I would hope for developing a state of the art introduction to the field. It's no worse than the majority of books in the area, but I wish it were better. Specifically, I think the communication generalist approach of the text makes it somewhat accessible for a wide variety of instructors, but I'd like to see a deeper grounding in persuasion, organizational communication, and business discourse.

Very clear and often clever.

I would describe the book as somewhat over broad in its lexicon. Part of the issue may be with arrangement, but the opening chapters were rife with lists and redefinition of common terms. One of the challenges of working in Communication as a field is that much of our content is taken for granted or treated as common sense. A narrower focus and an emphasis on key ideas would be very helpful. An adopter of the book might do well to adopt the elements on communication or language, but probably not both to keep the content clear.

It looks very good to me. One of the things I appreciated most was that the elements of the book I think were strongest could be realigned and revised with relative ease. The volume tries to be an "everything book" in many ways, so the opportunity to cut and remix is its most useful property. Facutly who use the giant comprehensive industry standard books end up excising a ton of content anyway.

The weakest chapters of the book were those that discussed research in business writing. I'd recommend that the aothor consult with a buisiness librarian who migh offer a more comprehensive and effective review of sources of business information. Those modules should be much stronger.

The organizational strategy makes sense, but it isn't how I might prefer the book to be laid out. The opportunity to cut material would be an advantage here.

Textually, the book is solid. I appreciate the typographic choices and the chapter outlines are very clear and straightforward. The visuals are less effective, as the are occasionally too small and somewhat unfocused. The choice to use gray text boxes or filters over sample documents was a poor one.

Unsurprisingly, it's very good. I appreciated the converstional tone.

The book makes frequent mention of inrercultural issues in business communication, which is absolutely relevant to the globalized marketplace of today's graduates. Additional examples of itnernational correspondence would be potentially invaluable, even amid the chapters on genres.

I deeply appreciate McLean's Business Communication for Success as the first truly effective and customizable open source text in our area. The coverage of the book equals or exceeds that of the majority of the books available from publishers, and the exercises and activities are appropriate to a wide variety of teaching circumstances and environments. For an instructor or program looking for a low cost option for students, the content and customizability of this book is a welcome starting point regardless of the disciplinary or curricular home of a business communication course.

Chapter 1: Effective Business Communication
Chapter 2: Delivering Your Message
Chapter 3: Understanding Your Audience
Chapter 4: Effective Business Writing
Chapter 5: Writing Preparation
Chapter 6: Writing
Chapter 7: Revising and Presenting Your Writing
Chapter 8: Feedback in the Writing Process
Chapter 9: Business Writing in Action
Chapter 10: Developing Business Presentations
Chapter 11: Nonverbal Delivery
Chapter 12: Organization and Outlines
Chapter 13: Presentations to Inform
Chapter 14: Presentations to Persuade
Chapter 15: Business Presentations in Action
Chapter 16: Intrapersonal and Interpersonal Business Communication
Chapter 17: Negative News and Crisis Communication
Chapter 18: Intercultural and International Business Communication
Chapter 19: Group Communication, Teamwork, and Leadership

Ancillary Material

About the book.

Business Communication for Success (BCS) provides a comprehensive, integrated approach to the study and application of written and oral business communication to serve both student and professor.

This series features chapters with the following elements:

Learning Objectives
Introductory Exercises
Clear expectations, relevant background, and important theories
Practical, real-world examples
Key Takeaways or quick internal summaries
Key terms that are easily identified
In-chapter assignments
Postchapter assessments linked to objectives and skills acquisition

Each chapter is self-contained, allowing for mix-and-match flexibility and custom or course-specific design. Each chapter focuses on clear objectives and skill demonstrations that can be easily linked to your syllabus and state or federal requirements. Supported by internal and external assessments, each chapter features time-saving and learning-enhancement support for instructors and students.

BCS is designed to help students identify important information, reinforce for retention, and demonstrate mastery with a clear outcome product.

The text has three content categories:

Foundations
Process and products

The first three chapters form the core foundation for the study of oral and written business communication. The next sequence of chapters focus on the process of writing, then oral performance with an emphasis on results. The final sequence focuses on contexts where business communication occurs, from interpersonal to intercultural, from groups to leadership.

In each of the process and product chapter sequences, the chapters follow a natural flow, from prewriting to revision, from preparation for a presentation to performance. Each sequence comes together in a concluding chapter that focuses on action—where we apply the skills and techniques of written or oral communication in business, from writing a letter to presenting a sales speech. These performances not only serve to reinforce real-world applications but also may serve as course assessments.

This text has been used in classes at: Ohio University, Miami University – Oxford, Kent State University – Salem Campus, Cuyahoga Community College – West, University of Toledo, Cuyahoga Community College – District, Northern Arizona University, Gateway Community College, University of Arizona, Arizona Western College, Boise State University,Western Governors University, Doane College, Mcpherson College, University of Nebraska Med Center, Suny Fredonia, State University of New York Institute of Technology at Utica/Rome, Trinidad State Junior College, University of Delaware, Brenau University, Brewton-Parker College, Loras College, Kapiolani Community College, Muscatine Community College, Greenville College, University of Illinois – Chicago, Millikin University, Rockland Community College, Cornell University, National-Louis University – Lisle, St. Gregory's University, University of Southern Indiana, Missouri State University – W Plains, Bucks County Community College – Newton, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Pulaski Technical College, Temple University, Dixie State College of Utah, Averett University, Virginia Polytech Institute, Fond Du Lac Tribal Community College, Lipscomb University, Edgewood College, University of Wisconsin – Stout, Wisconsin Lutheran College, Virginia State University, North Georgia Technical College – Blairsville, Paradise Valley Community College, Fordham University – Lincoln Center, New England College of Business/Finance, Eastern New Mexico University, University of Alabama, Albertus Magnus College, Pepperdine University, Fullerton College, Santa Ana College, Miracosta College – Oceanside, San Jose State University, De Anza College, University of The Southwest, Florida Institute of Technology, Forida State University, Dean College, California State University, University of Massachusetts, Suffolk University, Stevenson University, Worcester State College, University of Maryland, Clover Park Technical College, Minnesota State University – Moorhead, College of St. Scholastica, Ferris State University, Concordia University, Southern New Hampshire University, Lower Columbia College, University of North Carolina – Greensboro, Rockingham Community College, Stanly Community College, Wayland Baptist University, Bunker Hill Community College, Salve Regina University, University of The Incarnate Word, St. Mary's University, University of Rhode Island, Texarkana College, Renton Technical College, Tarleton State University, Wayland Baptist University – Plainview, University of Houston, Stephen F. Austin State University, Bates Technical College, Chabot College, Bakersfield College, Azusa Pacific University, University of Houston – Downtown, California Southern University, Miracosta College, American Public University, American Public University System, Huntington Junior College, Flat World Knowledge University, Jackson Senior High School, Holmes High School, Dlielc, Clintondale High School, American University in Kosovo in Conjunction with Rochester Institute of Technology, Southeast Lauderdale High School, Benedict Business Hotel Management School, University of the People, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, New England School of English, Comsats Institute of Information Technology, Wayland Baptist University – Anchorage, Volcano Vista High School, Wayland Baptist University – San Antonio, Morrill High School, North Island College – B Campus, Seneca College, APOU, University of North Carolina – Greensboro, Southern New Hampshire University, University of Maryland University College, Harrisburg High School

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Book Summaries

10 best communication skills books to improve your skills in 2024.

Senior Content Marketing Manager

January 25, 2024

In a world saturated with information, the real challenge often lies not in the abundance of words but in the efficiency of communication.

As George Bernard Shaw wisely noted, “.. the single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place” . Sometimes, it’s tough to say what we mean, and people might misunderstand us. This can lead to confusion, misinterpretations, and missed opportunities.

Poor communication and interpersonal skills can hold you back in personal and professional areas, impacting your growth and relationships.

So, let’s recognize that effective communication isn’t just about words—it’s about understanding and connection.

We’ve picked out ten remarkable communication skills books to help you break through conversation barriers and master impactful communication to reach your communication goals .

Let’s explore these literary guides and learn how to communicate better!

1. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

2. how to listen with intention by patrick king, 3. crucial conversations by joseph grenny, kerry patterson, ron mcmillan, al switzler & emily gregory, 4. elite communication skills for young professionals by ty hoesgen, 5. active listening techniques by nixaly leonardo, 6. reclaiming conversation: the power of talk in a digital age by sherry turkle , 7. just listen: discover the secret to getting through absolutely anyone by mark goulston, 8. verbal judo by george j. thompson, 9. five stars: the communication secrets to get from good to great by carmine gallo, 10. the silent language by edward t. hall, improve your communication skills with clickup .

Best Books to Improve Your Communication Skills

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie is one of the oldest communication skills books still popular today

About the book

Author: Dale Carnegie
Year published: 1936
Estimated reading time: 8 hours
Recommended level: Beginner
No. of pages: 291
4.7/5 (Amazon)
4.2/5 (Goodreads)

Have you ever thought about why making friends sometimes feels like an art?

Well, guess what? How to Win Friends and Influence People breaks down the secrets to building connections in a world where people carefully choose their companions based on distinct qualities.

One of the oldest and still very popular communication skills books, it delves into the psychology of human interactions, offering you essential skills to attract and dramatically deepen meaningful relationships. It emphasizes the importance of influencing others without coming across as manipulative—a skill that can be cultivated and honed.

The book also tackles the delicate topics of criticism, complaining, condemning, and achieving big success in relationships.

Through anecdotes and insights, the book guides you to navigate the complex world of feelings and relationships, encouraging a friendlier and more understanding way of communication.

“Any fool can criticize, complain, and condemn—and most fools do. But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving.”

How to Win Friends and Influence People takeaways

Avoid criticism and instead understand, empathize, and appreciate others sincerely. Practice active listening and center conversations around others’ interests to build genuine relationships
Sync your goals with others to create cooperation. Also, remember and use people’s names—a simple but powerful move to boost connections
Skip arguments for lasting goodwill. It’s all about reciprocity. Be truly interested in others for successful interactions

What readers say

“ Hall of Fame book that is still relevant and fresh nearly 100 years later. Everyone needs to read, and multiple times!”

How to Listen with Intention by Patrick King is among the top communication skills books to read

Author: Patrick King
Year published: 2020
Estimated reading time: 6 hours
No. of pages: 198
4.6/5 (Amazon)
3.8/5 (Goodreads)

Picture a world where every chat you have makes a real impact, where people genuinely feel heard and understood. That’s what this book brings to the table.

How to Listen with Intention is the seventh book in the How to be More Likable and Charismatic series by bestselling author and social skills coach Patrick King. It takes you on a journey to master the art of active listening, one of the most important communication skills.

Through this easy read, you will learn to connect, create rapport, and build trust effortlessly, enhancing the quality of your communication and relationships.

This book is your guide to the essential skill of authentic connection—more crucial than charisma or witty banter.

“Those who seem most boastful in a conversation, who jealously guard attention or speak over others, are often those who feel most insecure in themselves.”

How to Listen with Intention takeaways

Eliminate distractions and be fully present in conversations, offering your undivided attention to the speaker
Master active listening by going beyond words. It’s about understanding those underlying emotions by asking questions and showing empathy
Make space for open and non-judgemental communication, build stronger relationships by reflecting on what you understood from the conversation, and embrace the silence

“ The book does a great job of breaking down listening in understandable ways and points out several missteps of which I know I have been guilty. It also illustrates actionable ways to improve as a listener and gain a better perspective on the art of conversation.”

Looking for communication skills books? Try Crucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler & Emily Gregory

Authors: Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, Al Switzer & Emily Gregory
Year published: 2001
Recommended level: Beginner to intermediate
No. of pages: 288
4/5 (Goodreads)

Imagine making every conversation a success, even the tough ones. That’s the promise of Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High , our next on this list of unmissable communication skills books. It’s not just a book; it’s a guide that transforms how you communicate in today’s complex workplaces.

Written in a witty and engaging style, the book offers powerful skills to navigate any conversation, even the difficult ones, ensuring you get the desired results.

The book teaches you how to be persuasive, not abrasive, and steer a dialogue back to productivity when things get intense. Plus, it equips you with essential skills for mastering high-stakes conversations, whether they’re with colleagues, family, friends, or even enemies.

Drawing on 25 years of studying successful communicators, the book reveals the secrets of those who handle crucial conversations effectively. The goal is clear—to empower you to become a powerful communicator in any situation.

So, if you’ve ever faced a conversation that went south quickly, this book might just be your game-changer.

“Goals without deadlines aren’t goals; they’re merely directions.”

Crucial Conversations takeaways

Focus on one pressing problem at a time instead of trying to address multiple issues together
Find a mutual purpose to create a productive environment for everyone to have open and safe conversations
Keep your discussions respectful and constructive without holding back from expressing yourself

“ These authors have taken their ideas into the corporate world in a big way, but I find the skills and ideas incredibly useful for difficult conversations in any area of life. I gave away my first copy and then bought a second. Well worth your time.”

Elite Communication Skills for Young Professionals by Ty Hoesgen is one of Amazon's most popular communication skills books

Author: Ty Hoesgen
Year published: 2022
4.8/5 (Amazon)
4.5/5 (Goodreads)

Ever felt like you’re missing out on opportunities or not getting the recognition you deserve just because your communication skills are not up to the mark? Well, Elite Communication Skills for Young Professionals has your back.

This book spills the beans on how mastering communication can be your secret weapon for a kickstart in your life and career.

It doesn’t matter if you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between—this book will help you shine. Even Warren Buffet, the financial guru himself, vouches for the power of communication to boost your worth.

The book provides insights on gaining people’s respect without saying a word, decoding those nonverbal cues, and confidently talking to absolutely anyone, even if you’re a bit of an introvert. But it’s not just theory; it’s packed with actionable tips, teaching you how to keep cool before a big meeting, ace video calls, and crack many more such situations.

So whether you’re a communication pro or feeling a bit shaky, this book will upgrade your communication skills, make work and personal life smoother, and fast-track your success.

“If life was easy, it would lose its meaning”

Elite Communication Skills for Young Professionals takeaways

Nonverbal cues are as important as your words when you communicate
Use breathing techniques to center yourself while speaking in public
By asking the right questions, you can extract information from others while making lasting positive impressions

“ I found this book very useful to help my overall skills and confidence in communicating and overall confidence in myself. As someone who was always scared to speak publicly and privately I found the tips and examples Tyler provides in the book to help boost my overall confidence. This is a must read.”

Active Listening Techniques by Nixaly Leonardo is another one of our favorite communication skills books

Author: Nixaly Leonardo
No. of pages: 184
3.6/5 (Goodreads)

Active Listening Techniques is a comprehensive guide to enhancing the skill of active listening, a crucial aspect of effective communication skills.

The book shows you how active listening can help you build rapport, foster empathy, and resolve misunderstandings.

The heart of the book consists of 30 practical methods, each carefully written to address specific challenges that you may commonly encounter. Each technique is explained with real-world examples, case studies, and scenarios for you to understand them clearly.

“Most people listen passively, merely waiting for their turn to speak.”

Active Listening Techniques takeaways

Learn how to really tune in when people speak. The book shows you 30 easy ways to become an ace listener, making your relationships stronger and more genuine
Active listening isn’t just about hearing words. It’s a tool to help you resolve conflict, defuse tensions, and create more productive conversations
Apply the techniques in your professional and personal relationships, not just for better communication but for a happier life as well

“A great book for those who are looking to hone their active listening skills. Also touches on effective communication techniques that you can actually use in the real world. A practical book that I would recommend (and already have) to every person that I communicate with on a daily basis!”

Communication skills books very relevant today include Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age by Sherry Turkle

Author: Sherry Turkle
Year published: 2015
Estimated reading time: 10 hours
Recommended level: Intermediate
No. of pages: 352
4.4/5 (Amazon)

Ever feel like your constant connection to technology is taking a toll on real, face-to-face talks?

Well, Reclaiming Conversation digs deep into how your love affair with tech is messing with your ability to have meaningful chats.

While there are internal communication software that help you communicate with your team effectively, Sherry Turkle, a pro in the world of human technology, breaks down the consequences of the digital obsession and makes a solid case for bringing back the lost art of conversation.

She lays it all out, from how texting affects relationships to messing up family dinners and work vibes. She emphasizes the challenges the digital age throws our way, like loneliness and a loss of identity.

Turkle believes that by understanding the limitations of technology, we can revive the good old talk, have real conversations, and tackle today’s problems.

So, if you’re feeling the urge to put down that phone and have a real conversation, Turkle’s book might just be your guide in this digital world!

“Intelligence once meant more than what any artificial intelligence does. It used to include sensibility, sensitivity, awareness, discernment, reason, acumen, and wit.”

Reclaiming Conversations takeaways

Make face-to-face talks your go-to for genuine connections. There’s something special about in-person chats that can’t be replaced by texts or calls
Take a breather from the digital buzz. Spend some quality time in solitude, reflect, and find a balance. Too much screen time has a negative effect physically and mentally
Be there for your kids, and always keep an eye on their digital activities

“ This book will change how you see and understand technology and conversation. Sherry Turkle is clear, stories are excellent, she makes a claim and then works to support it, but she is fair and considerate with her argument. Already reread certain sections. Will not ever view technology the same way. Have already changed some habits. Thank you!”

Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through Absolutely Anyone by Mark Goulston

Author: Mark Goulston
No. of pages: 256

You know those people who only talk about themselves? Exhausting, right? Goulston gets it. Good conversation is a two-way street.

Just Listen is your guide to becoming a stellar listener and communicator, helping you build trust and immediate connection. In this book, Mark Goulston, psychiatrist, business consultant, and coach, spills all his secrets on turning impossible or unreachable people into your allies, customers, colleagues, or buddies for life.

Through this engaging book, he breaks down how to connect with people on a deeper level and talk confidently. The book is a goldmine of techniques—making killer first impressions, listening like a pro, understanding strangers, defusing anger, etc.

And here’s the main trick: When you need to get a message across, especially to tricky folks like disgruntled employees or unhappy clients, start by listening to them. That’s the secret sauce.

“If someone can’t or won’t listen to you, get him to listen to himself.”

Just Listen takeaways

Prioritize listening before speaking. If you can make others feel understood, valued, and interesting, it will be easy for you to connect with them
Convince others by making them ‘buy into’ your ideas. Encourage people to identify desirable but seemingly impossible goals and explore ways to make them possible
Surprise others with empathy to win them over. Allow people to vent and release stress before you present your ideas. Address problems openly and discuss them candidly for a better understanding

“ This book is a magnificent jewel that should be read in schools. It teaches how to get along in this world in a way that we all should learn to do. Dr. Goulston has done a superb job in opening my mind.”

Next on the list of communication skills books is Verbal Judo by George J. Thompson

Author: George J. Thompson
Year published: 2010
Estimated reading time: 7 hours
No. of pages: 224

This gem among communication skills books guides you on transforming heated arguments into wins.

Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion is a guide to using words to navigate disagreements and turn tough talks into positive outcomes. Authored by former cop and communication expert George J. Thompson, the book compares effective communication to martial arts, emphasizing the verbal judo approach.

Thompson breaks people down into three types—the nice, the difficult, and the wimp—offering a step-by-step guide on how to deal with each.

He also outlines a five-step process for voluntary compliance and shares tips on listening, empathizing, asking, paraphrasing, and summarizing for effective communication skills.

Packed with examples from police stories and real-life situations, this book is a practical guide for mastering the art of persuasion in relationships, making it valuable for effective communication in any scenario.

“Never react to what people say. React to what they mean. Just remember: People hardly ever say what they mean.”

Verbal Judo takeaways

Empathy is the best way to get people to listen to you
Avoid authoritative commands with others and explain the reasons behind rules. Successful communication is all about understanding the other person’s perspective rather than talking down to them
Identify your flaws to become a better speaker

“ Awesome book, I wish I could meet the author someday. Very useful, managed to put the lessons into action. Resulting in positive outcomes when delivering bad news to those unlucky few.”

Five Stars: The Communication Secrets to Get from Good to Great by Carmine Gallo counts among the most popular communication skills books

About the book

Author: Carmine Gallo
Year published: 2018
3.9/5 (Goodreads)

In today’s fast-paced world, having a cool idea isn’t enough. According to Carmine Gallo in Five Stars, you need to master the ancient skill of persuasion to really shine, move forward, and achieve big success.

Gallo dives into Aristotle’s old but gold persuasion formula, showing how it’s still relevant in inspiring folks today.

The book emphasizes the importance of communication skills as tech shrinks our world. Gallo chats with neuroscientists, economists, and leaders from various institutions like NASA, to show you how talking right is the key to grabbing attention and sparking big dreams.

But wait, it’s not just about you—it’s also about making business and customer experiences unforgettable. Gallo shares simple methods from successful companies for creating moments that turn people into loyal fans.

“Your career is your business. You are its CEO. Complacency breeds failure. As the CEO of your career, you must continually improve your skills, especially the art of communication.”

Five Stars takeaways

Concentrate on a single, concrete, and time-specific goal to talk effectively. Impress your recruiters and land your dream job by narrating compelling stories about yourself
Make presentations captivating by keeping them brief and incorporating visuals, like pictures. The quality of communication distinguishes good teams from great ones
Inspire others by connecting on an emotional level. The best communicators opt for short words over long ones, recognizing the power of simplicity

“Incredible stories and facts put together to take your communication skills to the next level. I started to use the techniques even before I finished the book and it worked flawlessly!”

The Silent Language by Edward T. Hall is last but not least in our list of top communication skills books

Author: Edward T. Hall
Year published: 1959
Estimated reading time: 7 hours
Recommended level: Intermediate to advanced
No. of pages: 217
4.5/5 (Amazon)
3.7/5 (Goodreads)

This insightful book by Edward T. Hall should be on your must-read list of communication skills books. It delves into the complex world of nonverbal communication, exploring how unspoken gestures and actions form the silent language that shapes human interactions.

Hall uses examples from everyday life, like the pecking order in a chicken yard, to explain how this silent language works. He also talks about culture shock, when you feel disoriented in a new culture because things are so different.

Even though the book was written long ago, its principles remain relevant. Hall’s observations about cultural rules and how we communicate without words are timeless.

It might be a little tricky to follow in some parts since this book was written in a different era, but overall The Silent Language is a cool guide for anyone who wants to understand the unspoken ways we connect and clash with others.

“One of the most effective ways to learn about oneself is by taking seriously the cultures of others. It forces you to pay attention to those details of life which differentiate them from you.”

The Silent Language takeaways

Move beyond spoken language—let your body language, gestures, and personal space convey messages. These non-verbal communication skills, operating subconsciously, greatly influence how messages are perceived and interpreted
Understand the differences in personal space and gestures across different cultures. This helps you get cross-cultural communication right, avoiding mix-ups and clashes
Embrace the concept of high-context and low-context cultures. Recognize the various communication styles for effective communication in diverse cultural settings

“ I first read this for a Poly project as a youngster. Its brilliance is built on what you know, or think you know, but perhaps don’t fully appreciate until you are told or have it explained to you. ET Hall is a level above. Have a read, it’ll highlight so much, you’ll be surprised, and very impressed.”

Bonus read: Growth hacking books

In a professional setting, effective communication and leadership skills are crucial components for success.

The insights gained from top communication skills books can provide a solid foundation. But the theories and frameworks alone may not be enough. You need something more than just literature.

This is where ClickUp , a versatile communication and project management tool, bridges the gap. While communication skills books provide the what and why of effective communication, ClickUp offers the how by allowing you to implement these principles in a digital space where teams can communicate effectively, collaborate, and manage projects in real time.

So let’s explore the features of ClickUp in detail and see how it can transform communication strategies from concepts on paper to productive results in the digital workspace.

Clickup project management tools

ClickUp is an all-in-one project management and productivity tool with the primary goal of making people more productive. It enhances workflows and facilitates team communication by bringing all your tasks and projects into a centralized platform.

ClickUp’s Project Management features focus on bringing teams closer together through connected workflows, conversations, documents, real-time dashboards, and more. This integrated approach enhances collaboration, allowing your teams to work more efficiently, make informed decisions, and ultimately save time.

With over 15 different views, including Gantt charts, Timelines, Lists, Boards, and Calendars, this versatile app accommodates the preferences of every team member. It allows you to choose the most suitable view, providing visibility and transparency across the team.

ClickUp communication tools

ClickUp Docs, Chat view, List view, and Homepage

Discover ClickUp’s Chat View that brings your team communication together, allowing you to share updates, link resources, and collaborate seamlessly and effortlessly. Whether it’s company-wide updates, team discussions, or project-specific chats, you can create a dedicated space for any work inside ClickUp.

Manage and access chats, stay in the loop with notifications, and streamline team communication with ClickUp’s real-time chat channels where you can tag colleagues, share files, assign tasks, and more

When tasks seem overwhelming, assign comments for clarity and follow up by using ClickUp Assigned Comments . It creates action items instantly, assigned to others or yourself.

ClickUp collaboration tool

The top communication skills books remind us of the importance of alignment. Keep everyone on the same page with the collaborative features of ClickUp Docs that allow you to create, edit, and organize documents with your team.

Centralize all your team’s documents and projects in one place, making it easily accessible for everyone. You and your team can edit and share documents in real time. By helping teams to work together on various projects, ClickUp makes an excellent workplace communication tool.

Also, explore ClickUp Whiteboards for a fun and collaborative team experience!

It’s like having a virtual canvas where you can unleash your creativity and turn ideas into action. Whether you’re brainstorming, mapping out strategies, or working on agile workflows, ClickUp Whiteboards provide the perfect space.

Collaborate in real-time, even if your team is miles apart, and move seamlessly from idea to action by creating tasks directly from your whiteboards and adding all the context you need.

Another notable feature is ClickUp Email , which enables you to manage your emails without leaving the platform. By integrating popular email applications like Gmail, Outlook, or Front, you can seamlessly send and receive emails within ClickUp Tasks . This integration streamlines communication and keeps all relevant information in one place.

Clickup templates

Looking to quickly translate your learning from these communication skills books into action? ClickUp offers various communication templates that can enhance how you communicate with your team and build relationships.

These templates go beyond providing a structural framework for your communication and collaboration plans. They help you organize your ideas, improve efficiency , and enhance your workflow.

One such customizable template is the ClickUp Communication Plan Template which enhances communication and project management. It facilitates client communication and provides sections for detailed planning, such as project details, objectives, and summaries.

Integrating project management elements like due dates, task comments, automation, and AI further supports effective communication planning.

Communicate better with ClickUp

ClickUp is an all-in-one platform where the principles learned from the top 10 communication skills books are tested and refined through interaction and collaboration.

It provides you with a dynamic environment for applying communication skills practically. So what are you waiting for? Sign up for free and take a step closer to becoming a better communicator at the workplace!

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15 Best Business Communication Books For Success in MBA & BBA

Table of Contents

Effective communication is the sole of every successful business. Whether you’re trying to persuade others, resolve conflicts, or inspire loyalty, having strong communication skills is essential.

In this article, we will introduce you to 15 must-read books on business communication that will help you hone your skills and achieve your goals.

What is business communication study?

Business communication is the study of the communication methods and strategies used in business contexts.

It encompasses a wide range of communication activities, including written and oral communication, nonverbal communication, and technology-mediated communication.

The goal of studying business communication is to develop a deep understanding of how to communicate effectively in various business contexts and to apply this knowledge to achieve better outcomes for businesses and their stakeholders.

With the significance of business communication in mind, professionals can leverage communication strategies to achieve success in their careers and help their organizations thrive.

Why do we study business communication?

Business communication is a crucial aspect of any organization’s success, and studying it is essential for anyone looking to excel in the business world.

One of the key features of business communication is to improve our communication skills

Effective communication is a critical component of success in business, and studying business communication can help us develop our writing, speaking, and listening skills.

In addition, Studying business communication also enables us to keep up with changing communication technologies, leading to increased success in negotiations, sales, and other business activities.

Top 15 Business communication books to Study in 2023

1) “crucial conversations: tools for talking when stakes are high” by kerry patterson, joseph grenny, ron mcmillan, and al switzler.

– This book provides practical tools for having difficult conversations in high-stakes situations, such as conflicts, negotiations, and performance reviews. It helps readers develop skills in dialogue, listening, and persuasion to navigate complex conversations effectively.

Review: For the MBTI framework believers, specifically those of which are classified as INTJ, this book is an absolute MUST. The book presents the unfortunate situation we all live in, which is the inability of people to speak their mind without it having an impact on the way they are seen. Hence becomes a practical tool for people management. Source for the review Rating: 4.0/5

2) “The Art of Communicating” by Thich Nhat Hanh

– This book offers insights and practices for communicating mindfully and effectively in both personal and professional settings.

The Art of Communication is also one of the best books on communication as it emphasizes the importance of active listening, compassion, and mindfulness in building stronger relationships and resolving conflicts.

Review: This is a very succinct book on communicating. It digs through the roots of all communication issues and misunderstandings between people- beginning with self-communication to communication within a community. Source for the review Rating: 4.10/5

3) “The Power of Communication: Skills to Build Trust, Inspire Loyalty, and Lead Effectively” by Helio Fred Garcia

– This book focuses on developing the essential communication skills needed to build trust, inspire loyalty, and lead effectively. It covers topics such as nonverbal communication, storytelling, and crisis communication, providing practical tips and strategies for improving communication in a range of contexts.

Review: Really enjoyed this book. Very well-written, engaging, and full of great tips and insights as you would expect from a book on communication. Goes way beyond how to communicate and into human behavior and how the mind works and why people respond the way they do. Source for the review Rating: 4.08 /5

4) “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert Cialdini

– This book explores the principles of influence and persuasion, providing practical insights into how to persuade others effectively. It covers topics such as reciprocity, social proof, and authority, and provides examples of how these principles can be used in sales, marketing, and other contexts.

Review: Required reading for all marketing professionals. The book details the most common approaches to influencing the decisions of others, backed up by the authors time spent infiltrating direct marketing companies and the like. Offers handy hints on how to spot when you’re being manipulated and how to handle it. Source for the review Rating: 4.21 /5

5) “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change” by Stephen R. Covey

– This book outlines seven habits that can help individuals become more effective in their personal and professional lives, including effective communication. It emphasizes the importance of understanding others, listening actively, and seeking win-win solutions in building strong relationships.

Review: Before buying this book I read a number of “outstanding” and a few negative reviews. After reading the book I wouldn’t agree with negative reviews but I won’t call this book outstanding. I would call it “a book with a number of good strategies/advises to follow”. Source for the review Rating: 4.15 /5

6) “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

– This classic book provides timeless advice on building strong relationships and influencing others. It covers topics such as listening actively, showing appreciation, and communicating clearly, providing practical tips and strategies for building strong relationships in both personal and professional settings.

Review: This book dives deep into how common courtesies produce exceptional results when dealing with others in just about any situation be it with bosses, customers, or leading others. This book has its place in today’s world. Source for the review Rating: 5 /5

7) “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White

– This classic guide to writing provides clear and concise advice on grammar, punctuation, and style. It is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their writing skills, whether for professional or personal purposes.

Review: A good reference book to keep referring to, for using the language in a clear and precise way. The good part is that it does not read like a rule book; the language is conversational and easy to grasp. Source for the book Rating: 4.18 /5

8) “Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It” by Chris Voss

– Another brilliant professional communication book that offers practical advice on negotiating effectively in high-stakes situations. It covers topics such as active listening, empathy, and effective communication, providing practical tips and strategies for negotiating in a range of contexts.

Review: The book has given insight into how to keep calm, negotiate and keep your emotions in check while doing that. The best part is comparing it with his experience in the field and how the tactics worked for him. Would like to recommend it to any person who loses that 5 bucks in the negotiating market. Thank me later. Source for the book Rating: 4.37 /5

9) “Crucial Accountability: Tools for Resolving Violated Expectations, Broken Commitments, and Bad Behavior” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

– This book provides practical tools for holding others accountable in the workplace. It covers topics such as setting expectations, addressing broken commitments, managing difficult conversations, providing practical advice for building stronger relationships and improving accountability in the workplace.

Review: If you find yourself in a situation where you have to call someone on their failure this book provides a path to do so while avoiding the common pitfalls that lead to problems. The solutions provided would work equally well for supervisors and subordinates in a business environment and some of the tools would also help with personal relationships. Source for the review Rating: 4.7 /5

10) “Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most” by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen

– An insightful corporate communication book that offers practical advice on having difficult conversations in a range of contexts. It covers topics such as managing emotions, understanding others’ perspectives, and resolving conflicts, providing practical tools and strategies for navigating complex conversations effectively.

Review: This book helps you to gain an understanding of the best approach to take when facing a conversation that has a high risk of going badly. I used the principles that I had learned within it to advise one of my team members when she had a falling out with a colleague and needed to talk to him about it. It really helped to diffuse a bad situation and lead to a great improvement in their working relationship. Source for the review Rating: 4.06 /5

11) “The Communication Book: 44 Ideas for Better Conversations Every Day” by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler.

-This book offers 44 short, practical tips for improving communication skills in a variety of contexts, such as networking, public speaking, and social media. Each idea is presented in a visually engaging format, with illustrations and diagrams to aid understanding.

Review: “This book is a great resource for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills but doesn’t have a lot of time to read a lengthy book. The ideas are easy to digest and implement, and the illustrations make it fun to read.” Source for the review Rating: 4.3/5

12) “The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life” by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander

– This book explores the power of possibility thinking in transforming personal and professional relationships. It covers topics such as developing a positive mindset, seeing opportunities in challenges, and using creativity to build stronger connections with others.

It is also one of the top communication skill books as it provides practical insights and strategies for achieving personal and professional success through effective communication and relationship-building skills.

Review: This book gives me a positive mind and the way I should think to change from impossible to possible. highly recommended. Source for the review Rating: 4.5 /5

13) “Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals” by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic

– This book provides practical guidance on using data effectively to tell compelling stories. It covers topics such as data visualization, storytelling techniques, and effective communication, providing practical tools and strategies for communicating data in a range of contexts.

Review: Good on fundamentals of storytelling in a business context; would especially recommend for people with a finance background who would like to improve on their storytelling skills Source for the review Rating: 4.40 /5

14) “Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln: 21 Powerful Secrets of History’s Greatest Speakers” by James C. Humes

– This book offers practical insights into the techniques used by history’s greatest speakers. It covers topics such as using humor, crafting compelling messages, and connecting with audiences, providing practical tips and strategies for improving public speaking and communication skills.

Review: There are so many gems in this book, for new and seasoned speakers alike. If you’re looking for practical advice that you can implement to improve your public speaking, this is a terrific resource. Source for the review Rating: 3.95 /5

15) “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek

– This book explores the importance of trust, communication, and leadership in building strong teams. It covers topics such as creating a culture of trust, communicating effectively, and developing strong leaders, providing practical insights and strategies for building stronger teams in the workplace.

Review: There are so many gems in this book, for new and seasoned speakers alike. If you’re looking for practical advice that you can implement to improve your public speaking, this is a terrific resource. Source for the review Rating: 4.06 /5

Business communication books for MBA and BBA

Top Business communication books that are specifically geared toward MBA and BBA students:

1) “Business Communication Today” by Courtland L. Bovee and John V. Thill

– This textbook is widely used in business communication courses and provides a comprehensive overview of the field. It covers topics such as interpersonal communication, group communication, public speaking, and digital communication, with practical examples and exercises to help students develop their communication skills.

Additionally, these resources are specifically geared toward MBA students, offering tailored insights and strategies to excel in business communication within diverse organizational contexts.

2) “Essentials of Business Communication” by Mary Ellen Guffey and Dana Loewy

– This textbook provides a practical and concise overview of business communication concepts, and strategies. It covers topics such as writing effective emails, memos, and reports, delivering effective presentations, and communicating in diverse settings, with real-world examples and case studies to help students apply the concepts they learn.

3) “Business Communication: Process and Product” by Mary Ellen Guffey and Dana Loewy

– This textbook focuses on the communication process in business settings and provides practical strategies for effective communication.

It covers topics such as audience analysis, message design, and feedback, with examples and exercises to help students apply the concepts they learn.

4) “Business and Professional Communication: Plans, Processes, and Performance” by James R. DiSanza and Nancy J. Legge

– This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of business and professional communication, with a focus on developing effective communication plans and strategies.

It covers topics such as listening, nonverbal communication, conflict management, and crisis communication, with real-world examples and case studies to help students apply the concepts they learn.

5) “Effective Business Communication” by Herta A. Murphy, Herbert W. Hildebrandt, and Jane P. Thomas

– This classic textbook has been used for decades in business communication courses and provides a practical overview of effective communication strategies.

It covers topics such as writing clear and concise messages, developing effective presentations, and using technology for communication, with real-world examples and exercises to help students improve their communication skills.

6) “Business Communication Essentials” by Courtland L. Bovee and John V. Thill

– This textbook is designed to provide an introduction to business communication for BBA students. It covers topics such as interpersonal communication, workplace communication, and digital communication, with practical examples and exercises to help students develop their communication skills.

In summary, these books on business communication will provide a range of practical tools and strategies for effective communication in workplace settings. Whether you are an MBA or BBA student, these books can help you develop the communication skills you need to succeed in the workplace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: what are business communication books.

Ans: Business communication books are valuable resources for professionals looking to improve their communication skills and achieve the objectives of business communication . These books provide insights, strategies, and practical tools for effective communication in a variety of professional settings.

Q2: What are the 7 principles of business communication?

Ans: The 7 principles of business communication are clarity, completeness, conciseness, consideration, concreteness, courtesy, and correctness. These basic principles of communication in business serve as a guide for effective communication in professional settings and help ensure that messages are clear, concise, and respectful.

Q3: What are business communication skills?

Ans: Business communication skills refer to the abilities needed to effectively communicate in professional settings. Such skills comprise written and verbal communication, active listening, interpersonal communication, public speaking, and digital communication.

Q4: What are the 4 basics of business communication?

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28 of the Best Sales Books of All Time to Skyrocket Your Sales Skills

Reading the best sales books is one of the most effective ways to improve your sales performance and succeed as a sales professional. Whether you're a seasoned sales rep or just starting out, these top sales books are a must-read for anyone serious about sales training and professional development.

Investing time in reading these sales books will provide you with the knowledge, sales strategies, and mindset needed to excel in your sales career. You'll gain insights from industry experts, learn proven techniques for overcoming objections, and discover how to effectively communicate with prospects and customers.

No matter where you are in your sales journey, the books on this list will help you sharpen your skills, boost your confidence, and ultimately, close more deals. So, if you're ready to take your sales game to new heights, grab a copy of one of these best sales books and start reading today. Your future self (and your business) will thank you for it.

Best Sales Books for Beginners and New Sales Hires

Are you just starting out in the field of business? Well, there is a lot to learn, but it will be very worth it. These following books will teach you everything you need to hit the ground running.

To Sell Is Human By Daniel H. Pink.

A must-read for anyone starting out in sales. The book argues that in today's world, we are all in sales, whether we realize it or not. Pink introduces the new ABCs of selling - Attunement (understanding the customer's perspective), Buoyancy (staying resilient in the face of rejection), and Clarity (communicating ideas clearly and persuasively) . Pink also provides tips on crafting effective pitches, negotiating, and building long-term customer relationships.

Throughout the book, he challenges traditional assumptions about sales and argues that honesty, service, and problem-finding are now more important than aggressive closing techniques. With its fresh insights , engaging anecdotes , and actionable advice , "To Sell Is Human" is an invaluable resource for sales beginners looking to master the art of modern selling.

Review Excerpt : “Dan Pink cuts through the jargon and explains the underlying social science and behaviors that lead to effective sales. He presents complicated topics using simple, human language that anyone can understand. In fact, the true meaning of the book is to realize the role each person plays in "selling" ideas on a daily basis.”

The Little Red Book of Selling by Jeffrey Gitomer

This concise yet powerful book is packed with practical advice and actionable strategies to help you master the art of selling. Gitomer emphasizes the importance of understanding why people buy, rather than focusing solely on how to sell. He introduces key concepts like the power of passion, the importance of personal branding, and the need to provide value to customers.

Gitomer also stresses the significance of preparation, self-motivation, and having a positive attitude. Throughout the book, he offers tips on building relationships, overcoming objections, and closing deals effectively. With its engaging style , humor , and no-nonsense approach , "The Little Red Book of Selling" is an invaluable resource for sales beginners looking to develop the mindset and skills needed to succeed in this competitive field.

Review Excerpt : “Jeffrey breaks his selling principles down to several simple concepts and presents them in bulleted lists that are easy to follow. Pay special attention to the "X.5" items. They are the gems.”

The Challenger Sale by Matthew Dixon and Brent Adamson

This book is a game-changing book for sales professionals. Based on extensive research, the authors argue that the most successful salespeople are "Challengers" who teach their customers, tailor their approach, and take control of the sale. Rather than just building relationships, Challengers push customers out of their comfort zone with unique insights.

The book provides a framework for implementing the Challenger approach, emphasizing the importance of organizational support and training. With its fresh perspectiv e and practical advice , "The Challenger Sale" is a must-read for anyone starting out in sales looking to master the complex modern selling environment.

Review Excerpt : “ This book is just what I was looking for with my team on sales. Already use the suggestions for being a “challenger sales” person. Based on research with lots of case studies and action steps.”

The Psychology of Selling by Brian Tracy

Brian Tracy provides a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of sales. He emphasizes the importance of a positive self-concept, setting clear goals, and understanding the customer's needs and motivations. Tracy shares insights on the psychology of why people buy, stressing the role of emotions and the desire for gain. He offers practical techniques for every stage of the sales process.

With its focus on the mental aspects of selling and its actionable strategies, "The Psychology of Selling" is a must-read for anyone starting a career in sales looking to fast-track their success.

Review Excerpt : “You will end up highlighting almost every sentence of the book. It really is that good. I definitely recommend it.”

Must-Read Sales Books for Prospecting and Lead Generation

Being able to obtain new customers is perhaps one of the biggest challenges in sales. The following books will give you all the tools you need for you to master prospecting and lead generation.

Fanatical Prospecting by Jeb Blount

This book is a good guide for anyone starting out in sales. It emphasizes the importance of consistent, high-quality prospecting to keep your pipeline full and avoid sales slumps. Blount introduces a balanced prospecting methodology across multiple channels and provides practical strategies for setting appointments, qualifying leads, and building familiarity with prospects.

He stresses the power of the phone, the need for a confident mindset, and the value of time-blocking to prioritize prospecting activities. With its realistic advice , real-world examples , and straightforwardness , "Fanatical Prospecting" is a must-read for sales beginners looking to master the art and science of effective prospecting.

Review Excerpt : “After following Jeb Blount’s insights across various platforms, diving into ‘Fanatical Prospecting’ felt like a personalized guide to success. Blount’s direct approach resonated with me, as if he were speaking directly to my sales challenges.”

High-Profit Prospecting by Mark Hunter

Mark Hunter provides a fresh approach to prospecting that challenges traditional methods and mindsets. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on high-value prospects, leveraging multiple channels, and projecting a compelling image to potential customers. Hunter offers practical strategies for separating real prospects from suspects, mastering effective prospecting techniques, and securing more referrals.

Filled with actionable insights and useful examples , "High-Profit Prospecting" is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their lead generation and prospecting skills in today's competitive sales landscape.

Review Excerpt : “Sales teams that want to drive exponential growth need to focus on high profit prospects. Mark Hunter has created a practical guidebook to help outbound sales teams do just that.”

New Sales Simplified by Mike Weinberg

Mike Weinberg offers a straightforward, practical guide to generating new business. He emphasizes the importance of strategically selecting target accounts, developing powerful sales tools (like a compelling sales story and effective cold call script), and executing a disciplined prospecting plan. Weinberg breaks down the process into simple steps, providing real-world examples and actionable advice for each stage. He also addresses common challenges and offers solutions to overcome them.

Its no-nonsense approach and focus on the fundamentals make "New Sales Simplified" a must-read for anyone looking to master the art of prospecting and consistently fill their pipeline with qualified opportunities.

Review Excerpt : “To give you a sense of how much value I get from this book, I just purchased the Kindle version after having read the paperback version twice several years ago. I want to make sure I have it available to reference at all times. I’ve said before about New Sales.Simplified, I loved the stories, the irreverent tone, and the honesty of this book.”

Predictable Prospecting by Marylou Tyler

A step-by-step approach to generating a consistent stream of high-quality leads. The book focuses on creating a predictable and scalable prospecting process, emphasizing the importance of targeting the right prospects and using multiple channels to reach them. Tyler introduces the concept of "human-to-human" selling, which involves personalizing outreach and building genuine connections with potential customers.

With its practical strategies and examples , "Predictable Prospecting" is a valuable resource for salespeople and entrepreneurs looking to improve their lead generation and prospecting efforts in a systematic, efficient manner.

Review Excerpt : “Five stars from start to finish, top to bottom. Loved all of the relevant examples and samples provided to engage the B2B marketplace to allow for more predictable prospecting. Lots of great gems tucked within these pages. I really loved the common sense approach.”

Top Sales Books on Mastering the Sales Process and Sales Cycle

In order for you to be successful in sales, you need to understand the process and all its stages. These texts cover all you need to know about that.

Sales Bible: The Ultimate Sales Resource by Jeffrey Gitomer

Jeffrey Gitomer shares his wealth of sales experience, offering practical tips and strategies for every aspect of the sales process. He emphasizes the importance of a positive attitude, strong product knowledge, and exceptional customer service as the foundation for sales success. He encourages readers to focus on creating value for customers, listening to their needs, and continuously improving their skills. With its comprehensive approach and engaging style , "The Sales Bible" is a must-read for anyone looking to master the art and science of selling.

Review Excerpt : “It is well written and very easy to read even by team members that may not like to read. It is broken down into simple short chapters and it has some very good ideas for selling, getting to the decision-maker, and closing business.”

Mastering Your Sales Process by David Masover

It provides a comprehensive guide to creating a winning sales process that benefits salespeople, managers, and customers alike. The book emphasizes the importance of having a well-defined, repeatable sales process that aligns with the buyer's journey.

Masover breaks down the process into six key steps, offering practical strategies and tools for each stage, from prospecting and qualifying leads to closing deals and managing customer relationships. He also stresses the significance of tracking progress, measuring results, and continuously improving the process.

Review Excerpt : “I've read a great many sales books in my 20+ years of sales and sales management. This is the first one I've read that clearly puts all the elements of the sales process together in a clear, concise, comprehensive manner.”

The Sales Acceleration Formula by Mark Roberge

Mark Roberge shares the data-driven approach he used to scale HubSpot's revenue to $100 million. The book provides a framework for building a modern sales team, covering key areas like hiring, training, managing, and demand generation. He also discusses the shift towards inbound marketing and how to align sales and marketing efforts.

With practical examples from HubSpot's growth, the book offers valuable insights for anyone looking to accelerate sales growth in today's digital landscape. It's a must-read for sales leaders and entrepreneurs seeking a scalable, predictable approach to revenue generation.

Review Excerpt : “My guess is that this will become a must read for every entrepreneur who is thinking about sales growth. It will be a must read for sales leaders everywhere, and for anyone wanting to understand how a business grows.”

SPIN Selling by Neil Rackham

Neil Rackham presents a groundbreaking approach to sales based on extensive research. He argues that traditional sales techniques, like closing, don't work for complex deals. Instead, the SPIN method focuses on asking four types of questions: Situation, Problem, Implication, and Need-payoff.

By uncovering the customer's real needs and challenges , salespeople can position their offering as the ideal solution. "SPIN Selling" is a must-read for anyone looking to master the consultative sales process and build lasting customer relationships in an increasingly sophisticated selling environment.

Review Excerpt : “The author's question-based sales technique is a game-changer. It's empowering to realize that anyone can learn to sell effectively without resorting to sleazy tactics. This book opened my eyes to new possibilities.”

Best Books for Sales Managers and Leaders to Build a Successful Sales Team

Sales is a team effort, so people and companies definitely need a great team. So, if you are a sales manager, team leader focused on building sales, or generally in need of a book of sales, check out this list.

The Sales Manager Survival Guide by David Brock

David Brock offers invaluable insights and practical guidance for sales managers navigating the challenges of leading a sales team. The book emphasizes the importance of coaching, spending time with your team, and focusing on the right metrics and activities. Brock provides a framework for a sales manager's first 90 days, stressing the need to understand your people, company, and processes before making changes.

He also covers essential topics like managing former peers, balancing your time effectively, and continuously improving your team's performance. With its real-world wisdom, "The Sales Manager Survival Guide" is a must-read for both new and experienced sales leaders.

Review Excerpt : “This is a great book full of practice advice and guidance for Sales Managers. I like the way that Dave writes – it’s clear, succinct, and to the point.”

Coaching Salespeople into Sales Champions by Keith Rosen

The text provides a comprehensive playbook for sales managers to develop a thriving coaching culture and build high-performing teams. Rosen emphasizes that effective coaching, not just training, is the key to unlocking salespeople's potential. He introduces the L.E.A.D.S. Coaching Framework, a proven system for empowering salespeople to solve their own problems and take ownership of their success.

The book is packed with practical tools that managers can use immediately. Rosen also covers essential topics like enrolling salespeople through trust, handling difficult situations, and the mindset required for leadership. With its systematic approach , this book is a must-read for sales managers looking to elevate their coaching skills and drive better results.

Review Excerpt : “To say this book is interesting and useful is an understatement. I found it full of information that far exceeds the investment of the time to read it and the money to purchase it.”

Cracking the Sales Management Code by Jason Jordan and Michelle Vazzana

In "Cracking the Sales Management Code," Jason Jordan and Michelle Vazzana provide a groundbreaking framework for measuring and managing sales performance. They identify five key sales processes - call management, opportunity management, account management, territory management, and sales force enablement - and show how to select the right ones for each sales role.

The book emphasizes the importance of aligning sales activities with objectives and business results, offering practical advice on choosing metrics that drive desired outcomes. Its data-driven insights and actionable recommendations make it an invaluable resource for sales leaders looking to boost their team's effectiveness and achieve their revenue goals.

Review Excerpt : “This book was a great read not only because of the information, but because of the layout and wording. The author was straightforward with the information adding on piece by piece every chapter.”

The Accidental Sales Manager by Chris Lytle

Chris Lytle offers practical guidance for new sales managers who find themselves suddenly leading a team. He addresses common challenges like transitioning from salesperson to manager, avoiding the "sales management trap" of getting caught up in day-to-day firefighting, and developing the skills to effectively coach and motivate salespeople.

He provides step-by-step advice on prioritizing tasks, running productive meetings, and helping reps improve their performance. This book is an invaluable resource for any accidental sales manager looking to successfully navigate their new role and build a high-performing team.

Review Excerpt : “Chris Lytle does an amazing job of giving the structure of how to rank/prioritize your team while still structuring your meetings/one on ones, and communication style to make sure your team is always growing.”

Essential Reads for Understanding Sales Psychology and the Science of Selling

There’s a method to sales’ madness. If you want to have a well rounded understanding on how and why people buy things, you might be interested in learning about sales psychology and the science of selling. To master this art of sales, here are some books to help you out.

The Science of Selling by David Hoffeld

In "The Science of Selling," David Hoffeld presents a groundbreaking approach to sales based on research from social psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral economics. Hoffeld argues that the most effective salespeople align their techniques with how the brain naturally makes buying decisions.

Hoffeld also shares insights on the power of likability, social proof, and small commitments in driving sales. Backed by rigorous science and practical examples, "The Science of Selling" is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the psychology behind why people buy and how to leverage it ethically.

Review Excerpt : “As an admitted fan of psychology and behavioral economics it was with great anticipation that I read through The Science of Selling by David Hoffeld and it did not disappoint. The Science of Selling is the ultimate collection of evidence-based practices for sales ever collected in one volume.”

Brainfluence: 100 Ways to Persuade and Convince Consumers with Neuromarketing by Roger Dooley

Roger Dooley offers 100 practical strategies for applying neuroscience and behavior research to persuade and influence consumers. Drawing from the latest studies, Dooley reveals how to tap into the subconscious mind, which drives 95% of our thoughts and decisions. He covers techniques for creating emotional connections, reducing price sensitivity, optimizing websites, and more.

Dooley emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's non-conscious motivations and provides actionable tips for marketers, advertisers, and salespeople. With its concise chapters and clear examples , "Brainfluence" is an engaging and valuable read for anyone interested in the cutting-edge science of selling and persuasion.

Review Excerpt : “Roger takes incredibly complex neurological and behavioral science principles and distills them into real tactics that pretty much anyone can use at work or home (...) it's a solid book that you can go to again and again if you want to understand and drive behavior change.”

Methods of Persuasion: How to Use Psychology to Influence Human Behavior by Nick Kolenda

In "Methods of Persuasion," Nick Kolenda reveals the psychological secrets behind his mind-reading feats, providing a 7-step persuasion process based on cutting-edge research in psychology and neuroscience. He explains how to mold people's perceptions, elicit congruent attitudes, habituate your message, optimize your delivery, drive their momentum, and sustain their compliance.

Kolenda shares practical techniques for subconsciously influencing thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Filled with fascinating insights on priming, schemas, expectations, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the hidden psychological triggers that shape human decisions and applying them ethically in sales and persuasion.

Review Excerpt : “The author promises to be brief and concise. I thank him for being exactly that. Also, there's no voodoo. He de-mystifies what makes us do the things we do and how we in turn, can use those concepts to achieve our own sales.”

Neuromarketing: Understanding the Buy Buttons in Your Customer's Brain by Patrick Renvoise and Christophe Morin

This book dives into the science behind how the brain makes purchasing decisions. Drawing from their pioneering work at the first neuromarketing agency, they reveal that the "old brain" (the primitive, subconscious part) is the real decision-maker, not the rational "new brain."

They introduce a powerful model for crafting messages that speak directly to the old brain's survival instincts, using six stimuli: self-centered benefits, contrast, tangible input, beginning and end, visual stimuli, and emotion. Packed with fascinating case studies and practical techniques , this book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand and influence the customer's buying brain.

Review Excerpt : “Simply awesome! Every Product Marketing professional must read this book. This book really breaks it down to the basics. So refreshing!”

Best Sales Books for Honing Your Sales Techniques and Closing More Deals

There are plenty of sales techniques, training and sales skills that can increase your chances of success, of getting to close deals and having winning sales. In the following list of books you’ll find sales rules and tips to excel in your business.

Secrets of Closing the Sale by Zig Ziglar

Ziglar provides a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of selling. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's needs, asking the right questions, and presenting your product as the ideal solution. Ziglar shares practical techniques for handling objections, using voice inflection, and creating a sense of urgency to close the deal.

He also stresses the role of the salesperson's attitude, integrity, and belief in the product. Filled with engaging anecdotes and actionable techniques , this book is a must-read for anyone looking to boost their sales skills and persuade others more effectively.

Review Receipt : “This book activated my sense of finally being able to get the sale.”

The Lost Art of Closing by Anthony Iannarino

In "The Lost Art of Closing," Anthony Iannarino challenges the notion that closing is about high-pressure tactics. Instead, he argues that closing is about gaining commitments throughout the sales process. Iannarino introduces ten key commitments, from the commitment to explore change to the commitment to decide.

He provides practical strategies, emphasizing the importance of creating value, building consensus, and resolving concerns. With its fresh perspective on closing and real tips for each stage of the sale, "The Lost Art of Closing" is a must-read for salespeople looking to win more deals by mastering the art of commitment-gaining.

Review Excerpt : “Anthony Iannarino manages to accomplish the impossible by clearly defining a set of micro-commitments that are necessary to successfully close the sale - that apply to every type of sale.”

Exactly What to Say: The Magic Words for Influence and Impact by Phil M. Jones

Phil M. Jones reveals the power of words in influencing others and provides readers with the exact phrases to navigate any situation effectively. He emphasizes that success in sales (and life) often depends on knowing what to say, how to say it, and when to say it.

Jones shares practical word-for-word scripts for handling objections, creating urgency, and guiding people to make decisions. He also explains the psychology behind why these "magic words" work and how to adapt them to your own style. Concise , actionable , and easy to implement , this book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to communicate more persuasively and improve their sales conversations.

Review Excerpt : “Simple and effective dose of exactly what you need to say to increase your influence in sales or networking. Loved this quick read and how easy it is to die in and quickly adapt or refresh your memory on it.”

Sell or Be Sold: How to Get Your Way in Business and in Life by Grant Cardone

Selling is a critical skill for success in all areas of life, not just in business. Grant emphasizes the importance of committing fully to sales, mastering the art of persuasion, and taking massive action. Cardone provides practical tips on building rapport, handling objections, closing deals, and maintaining a positive attitude in the face of rejection.

He also stresses the significance of continuously expanding your "power base" of contacts and staying in touch with past customers. Filled with real-world examples and motivational advice , this book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their sales skills and achieve their goals

Review Excerpt : “This book is a must have for not only salespeople, but anyone in business in any field. It’s a great and quick read with so many gems.”

Top Picks for Advancing Your Sales Career and Becoming a Top Sales Professional

Aiming for sales success in your career? The following books can give you an edge to set yourself apart in this business industry. Maintain a successful sales career by nurturing your skills and abilities!

Emotional Intelligence for Sales Success by Colleen Stanley

Colleen Stanley demonstrates how emotional intelligence (EI) is a critical factor in sales performance. She explains how salespeople can sharpen their EI skills to overcome challenges, build stronger relationships with customers, and close more deals. Stanley covers key topics like increasing impulse control for better listening, using empathy to uncover needs, and creating emotionally intelligent sales cultures.

It gives accurate tips and examples , and shows how EI can improve prospecting, likability, trust, and ultimately, sales results. For anyone serious about advancing their sales career, this book is a must-read guide to leveraging emotional intelligence for success

Review Excerpt : “For every major selling activity Ms. Stanley lists the emotional components, teaches on how to maximize their impact, includes several case studies and then has an action plan for developing the emotional reliance to be successful - from prospecting to negotiating.”

Hacking Sales by Max Altschuler

This is a practical guide to leveraging technology and data to accelerate modern sales. He argues that in today's landscape, salespeople need to be "sales hackers" who combine traditional methods with new tools and techniques.

It covers building a powerful sales stack, automating tasks, personalizing outreach at scale, running experiments, and more, and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and testing to optimize results. "Hacking Sales" is an invaluable resource for any salesperson looking to boost their productivity, efficiency, and performance in the digital age .

Review Excerpt : “The business of selling is changing at a fast and frightening pace. "Hacking Sales" is a must read for every sales leader and sales professional today.”

Selling to Big Companies by Jill Konrath

In "Selling to Big Companies," Jill Konrath provides a practical guide for salespeople looking to land major accounts. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's business, creating a compelling value proposition, and developing a multi-faceted approach to penetrate these large organizations.

Konrath offers strategies for targeting the right prospects, overcoming obstacles, and positioning yourself as a valuable resource. One key takeaway is the focus on the customer's needs and challenges, rather than just pushing a product. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to fast-track their sales career by winning big clients.

Review Excerpt : “Technically speaking, this was the best sales book I ever read. You can tell the author really knows her stuff. Her advice is dead-on accurate.”

Predictable Revenue by Aaron Ross and Marylou Tyler

In "Predictable Revenue," Aaron Ross and Marylou Tyler share the outbound sales process that helped Salesforce add $100 million in recurring revenue. They introduce the concept of "Cold Calling 2.0," which emphasizes targeted, personalized outreach to generate sales and qualified leads.

The authors advocate for specializing sales roles, with dedicated teams for prospecting, closing, and account management. They provide step-by-step guidance on building a predictable revenue pipeline, from identifying ideal prospects to crafting compelling messages and scaling the process.

Review Excerpt : “Great book. I love the coaching style. This is a great guide for sales teams, technologist and managers leading digital automation such as sales force automation in today's turbulent business world.”

Bonus: Best Sales Podcasts for Learning on the Go

Reading all those books will be very beneficial, but also time consuming, so one way to keep nourishing your knowledge and skills on sales is by listening to podcasts on the topic. They are easy to integrate in your day to day life - listen to them while getting to work, in the shower, while doing the dishes - and can be very fun and easy to consume.

Daily Sales Tips , hosted by Scott Ingram.

Ingram provides actionable sales advice in short episodes, most under 10 minutes. Perfect for quick tips during a busy day.

Inside Selling , hosted by Josh Braun

Braun shares non-sleazy sales tactics in bite-sized episodes, also under 10 minutes, to help reps sell without being sales-y.

Sales Babble , hosted by Pat Helmers

Helmers offers clear, straightforward sales advice for non-sellers in short 5-30 minute episodes, great for beginners.

Selling Made Simple , hosted by Will Baron

Baron packs bite-sized 4-15 minute episodes with direct, actionable sales tips and best practices for time-pressed reps.

How to Choose the Right Sales Books for You

With so many resources available, it can be daunting to know which to use first. Here are some tips for you to take into account so that the best book or podcast option reveals itself faster.

Assess your current sales skills and knowledge gaps to identify areas where you need to improve. This will help you choose the best sales books that address your specific needs and challenges.
Determine your specific sales role and goals , whether you're a new sales rep, an experienced salesperson, or a sales executive. Different books cater to different levels of sales experience and responsibilities.
Preview book summaries and reviews to get a sense of the key concepts , unique sales systems, and actionable insights each book offers. This will help you select the most relevant and valuable books for your needs.
Download free samples or excerpts of the best sales books you're considering to get a feel for the author's writing style, the book's structure, and the depth of information provided. Many online bookstores and publishers offer these previews.
Get recommendations from sales mentors, peers, and the sales executive council in your organization. They can suggest the best sales books that have helped them improve their sales skills and achieve their goals.

Best Sales Books: Final Thoughts

In conclusion, reading the best sales books of all time is one of the most powerful ways to elevate your sales skills and accelerate your career growth. By learning from these great sales books, you'll gain proven strategies, techniques, and insights that will help you master every aspect of selling, from prospecting and building rapport to closing deals and managing your time effectively.

To get the most out of these sales books of all time, I recommend starting with just 1-2 titles that resonate with your current goals and challenges. Commit to reading them deeply, taking notes, and applying their lessons consistently. As you see the results in your performance, you'll be motivated to explore even more of these best sales books.

About Author:

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Location: Moscow Oblast, Russia
Latitude: 55.79. Longitude: 38.46
Population: 144,000

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leadership research findings practice and skills dubrin

Leadership: Research Findings, Practice, and Skills | 8th Edition

Available study tools, mindtap management, 1 term (6 months) instant access for dubrin's leadership: research findings, practice, and skills, about this product.

Perfect for instructors who take a practical, skill-building approach to teaching leadership, the eighth edition of LEADERSHIP provides an ideal balance of essential theory and real-world applications. Andrew DuBrin, a highly respected author and consultant, incorporates the latest research on leadership and current business practices from academic journals and popular periodicals. The text provides students with a strong practical foundation by introducing leaders they can relate to and reinforcing their knowledge with frequent skill-building activities. Key updates include new opening vignettes and end-of-chapter cases, numerous additional skill-building exercises, and a role-playing or other experiential activity linked to all end-of-chapter cases. In addition, LEADERSHIP is available with MindTap for the first time. Mindtap is a personalized, fully online digital learning platform of authoritative Cengage Learning content, assignments, and services that engages students with interactivity while offering you a choice in the configuration of course work and enhancement of the curriculum. MindTap guides students through the course curriculum via an innovative Learning Path Navigator where they complete interactive self-assessments reading assignments, annotate your readings, complete homework, and engage with quizzes and assessments.

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Elektrostal

Elektrostal Localisation : Country Russia , Oblast Moscow Oblast . Available Information : Geographical coordinates , Population, Area, Altitude, Weather and Hotel . Nearby cities and villages : Noginsk , Pavlovsky Posad and Staraya Kupavna .

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Leadership: Research Findings, Practice, and Skills 2nd Edition

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ISBN-10 0395856647
ISBN-13 978-0395856642
Edition 2nd Edition
Publisher Houghton Mifflin
Publication date January 1, 1998
Language English
Dimensions 0.75 x 7.75 x 9.5 inches
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Publisher ‏ : ‎ Houghton Mifflin; 2nd Edition (January 1, 1998)
Language ‏ : ‎ English
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0395856647
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0395856642
Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.98 pounds
Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 0.75 x 7.75 x 9.5 inches

About the author

Andrew j. dubrin.

Andrew J. DuBrin is a Professor Management emeritus at the Saunders College of Business at the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he has taught courses in organizational behavior, leadership, and career management. He received his PhD in industrial/organizational psychology at Michigan State University.

DuBrin has business experience in human resource management, and consults with organizational and individuals. His specialties include leadership, organizational politics including influence tactics and impression management, and career development. He is an established author of professional books, text books, and trade books, and also contributes to professional journals.

Many of the examples and cases in his book stem from personal contacts, including family members, friends, and his experiences as a customer.

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9 must-read books to make you a stronger communicator
Unleash the Power of Storytelling: Win Hearts, Change Minds, Get Results. By Rob Biesenbach. Book description (via Amazon): "The market is flooded with a dizzying array of books, experts, and resources on business storytelling. This book cuts through the hype to clarify and demystify the storytelling process. "Unleash the Power of ...
15 Best Communication Books to Read for Work
Here is a list of books about communication to improve conversations in the workplace. 1. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler. Crucial Conversations is a guide for communicating in tense situations.
Amazon Best Sellers: Best Business Communication
Best Sellers in Business Communication. #1. Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery (Voices That Matter) Garr Reynolds. 264. Paperback. 76 offers from $14.73. #2. Practice Makes Perfect: Basic English, Premium Third Edition.
10 Skills for Effective Business Communication: Practical Strategies
Her first book, 10 Skills for Effective Business Communication: Practical Strategies from the World's Greatest Leaders, takes the best communication lessons she learned in overcoming being an introvert and a woman to rise to a level of leadership. It releases in August of 2018 on Amazon. Her second book, 12 Productivity Hacks will provide ...
Business Communication for Success
About the Book. Business Communication for Success (BCS) provides a comprehensive, integrated approach to the study and application of written and oral business communication to serve both student and professor. This series features chapters with the following elements: Learning Objectives. Introductory Exercises.
10 Best Communication Skills Books to Improve Your Skills in 2024
4.6/5 (Amazon) 3.8/5 (Goodreads) This gem among communication skills books guides you on transforming heated arguments into wins. Verbal Judo: The Gentle Art of Persuasion is a guide to using words to navigate disagreements and turn tough talks into positive outcomes.
Amazon Best Sellers: Best Business Communication Skills
The First Minute: How to Start Conversations That Get Results (Business Communication Skills Books Book 1) Chris Fenning. 705. Kindle Edition. 1 offer from $6.99. #8. Timeless Visibility: How a book will get you seen and paid in 2024! Danielle Mendoza. 5.
Communication Skills for Business Professionals
Description. Communication Skills for Business Professionals, second edition, is a student-friendly introduction to effective communication in the workplace. Engagingly written, the text covers foundational topics such as audience, influence, channels, conflict and persuasion, before investigating more complex areas such as intercultural ...
10 Books to Improve Business Communication Skills
In this post, we will share with you our list of the top 10 best business communication books that will help you get better at communicating at work. These books cover topics such as diplomacy, body language, listening, and empathy. #1 - The Business Communication Profession: Essays on the Journeys of Leading Teacher-Scholars by Janis Forman.
15 Best Business Communication Books For Success in MBA & BBA
Business communication books for MBA and BBA Top Business communication books that are specifically geared toward MBA and BBA students: 1) "Business Communication Today" by Courtland L. Bovee and John V. Thill - This textbook is widely used in business communication courses and provides a comprehensive overview of the field.
Improving Business Communication Skills
KEY BENEFIT: The fourth edition of Improving Business Communication continues to deliver the foundation on which to build and improve all communication skills. KEY TOPICS: This book provides practical and vital communication skills, explores communication through technology, and emphasizes the importance of oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills that future professionals need to ...
5 Leadership Books To Improve Your Communication Skills In 2024
Here are some books which can help you improve your communication within the workplace: 1. Leadership Is Language: The Hidden Power Of What You Say And What You Don't. Leadership Is Language ...
Communication Skills for Business Professionals
Communication Skills for Business Professionals, second edition, is a student-friendly introduction to effective communication in the workplace. Engagingly written, the text covers foundational topics such as audience, influence, channels, conflict and persuasion, before investigating more complex areas such as intercultural communication, virtual communication, researching in the era of 'fake ...
Amazon Best Sellers: Best Communication Skills
1 offer from $11.99. #8. Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life) Thomas Erikson. 8,962. Audible Audiobook. 1 offer from $13.74. #9. Mean Girls at Work: How to Stay Professional When Things Get Personal.
Business Communication : Strategies and Skills
For courses in Business Communication. Designed with the new managerial expectations in mind, this student-friendly introduction to business communication focuses on the most consequential aspects of communication. It enhances the readers' competitive edge in the workplace enabling them to "hit the ground running" and contribute to their organization immediately.
28 of the Best Sales Books of All Time to Skyrocket Your Sales Skills
The Sales Acceleration Formula by Mark Roberge. Mark Roberge shares the data-driven approach he used to scale HubSpot's revenue to $100 million. The book provides a framework for building a modern sales team, covering key areas like hiring, training, managing, and demand generation.
Time in Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia now
Sunrise, sunset, day length and solar time for Elektrostal. Sunrise: 03:52AM. Sunset: 08:55PM. Day length: 17h 3m. Solar noon: 12:23PM. The current local time in Elektrostal is 23 minutes ahead of apparent solar time.
Improving Business Communication Skills
The book provides readers with complete guidelines for writing letters, memos and reports, preparing and delivering presentations and using technology to communicate. For individuals in need of a review or introduction of business communication skills.
BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
The book emphasizes that understanding the perceptions and mindsets of the communicators and the context are crucial for business communication. This book, which is the outcome of the rich and the vast experience of Dr. Asha Kaul and her interaction with the brilliant young minds at IIM Ahmedabad and other B-schools, should be of immense value ...
leadership research findings practice and skills dubrin
DuBrin has experience in human resource management and is a business and personal consultant in career management, leadership, and management development. Dr. DuBrin is an established author of both textbooks and trade books, and he contributes to professional journals, magazines, newspapers, and online media.... Examine the keys to leadership success with the practical, skill-building ...
Amazon.com: Business Communication
The First Minute: How to Start Conversations That Get Results (Business Communication Skills Books) Book 1 of 2: Business Communication Skills Books. 4.5 out of 5 stars. 722. Paperback. $14.03 $ 14. 03. List: $14.99 $14.99. FREE delivery Mon, Feb 19 on $35 of items shipped by Amazon.
Russia: Gazprom Appoints Pavel Oderov as Head of International Business
March 17, 2011. Pavel Oderov was appointed as Head of the International Business Department pursuant to a Gazprom order. Pavel Oderov was born in June 1979 in the town of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast. He graduated from Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas with an Economics degree in 2000 and a Management degree in 2002.
Amazon.com: Communications
How to Read People Like a Book: A Guide to Speed-Reading People, Understand Body Language and Emotions, Decode Intentions, and Connect Effortlessly (Communication Skills Training) 1,599. $900. $18.00. How to Talk to Anyone: 92 Little Tricks for Big Success in Relationships. 13,372.
magFlags XL Flag Elektrostal Moscow oblast
Amazon.com : magFlags XL Flag Elektrostal Moscow oblast | landscape flag | 2.16m² | 23sqft | 120x180cm | 4x6ft - 100% Made in Germany - long lasting outdoor flag : Outdoor Flags : Patio, Lawn & Garden

9 must-read books to make you a stronger communicator

Unleash the Power of Storytelling: Win Hearts, Change Minds, Get Results

Five Stars: The Communication Secrets to Get from Good to Great

Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone

We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter

Power Questions: Build Relationships, Win New Business, and Influence Others

Related content

15 Best Communication Books to Read for Work

List of communication books

1. Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

2. Simply Said: Communicating Better at Work and Beyond by Jay Sullivan

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3. Words That Work: It’s Not What You Say, It’s What People Hear by Dr. Frank Luntz

4. The Fine Art of Small Talk: How To Start a Conversation, Keep It Going, Build Networking Skills — and Leave a Positive Impression! By Debra Fine

5. Communication Skills Training: A Practical Guide to Improving Your Social Intelligence, Presentation, Persuasion and Public Speaking by Ian Tuhovsky

6. Just Listen: Discover the Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone by Mark Goulston by Ian Tuhovsky

7. Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life One Conversation at a Time by Susan Scott

8. Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance by Erica Dhawan

9. Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo

10. Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication by Oren Jay Sofer

11. We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter by Celeste Headlee

12. Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen

13. HBR Guide to Better Business Writing by The Harvard Business Review

14. Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell

15. The Art of Communicating by Thich Nhat Hanh

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Business Communication for Success

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Book Summaries

1. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

Best Books to Improve Your Communication Skills

About the book

How to Win Friends and Influence People takeaways

What readers say

How to Listen with Intention takeaways

Crucial Conversations takeaways

Elite Communication Skills for Young Professionals takeaways

Active Listening Techniques takeaways

Reclaiming Conversations takeaways

Just Listen takeaways

Verbal Judo takeaways

About the book

Five Stars takeaways

The Silent Language takeaways

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What is business communication study?

Why do we study business communication?

Top 15 Business communication books to Study in 2023

2) “The Art of Communicating” by Thich Nhat Hanh

3) “The Power of Communication: Skills to Build Trust, Inspire Loyalty, and Lead Effectively” by Helio Fred Garcia

4) “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert Cialdini

5) “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change” by Stephen R. Covey

6) “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

7) “The Elements of Style” by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White

8) “Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It” by Chris Voss

9) “Crucial Accountability: Tools for Resolving Violated Expectations, Broken Commitments, and Bad Behavior” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

10) “Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most” by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen

11) “The Communication Book: 44 Ideas for Better Conversations Every Day” by Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler.

12) “The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life” by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander

13) “Storytelling with Data: A Data Visualization Guide for Business Professionals” by Cole Nussbaumer Knaflic

14) “Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln: 21 Powerful Secrets of History’s Greatest Speakers” by James C. Humes

15) “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek

Business communication books for MBA and BBA

1) “Business Communication Today” by Courtland L. Bovee and John V. Thill

2) “Essentials of Business Communication” by Mary Ellen Guffey and Dana Loewy