SAGE Journal Articles

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Journal Article 1: Curry, J. (1996). Introducing realism into business writing: Extended conflict with a hostile audience. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 59, 77-87.

Abstract: While business writing textbooks generally do an adequate job of helping instructors introduce real-life challenges into the classroom, there are at least two that they tend to slight or overlook. One is an encounter with a hostile, closed-minded audience, and the other is an extended conflict. An exercise that provides students with the practice they need in dealing with both of these challenges is described. Also, the method of grading the exercise is outlined, and the exercise's benefits are listed.

Journal Article 2: Scammell, A. (2006). Business writing for strategic communications: The marketing and communications mix. Business Information Review, 23, 43-49.

Abstract: Provides an outline of the role of business writing in the communications strategy of an organization, department or information service. Makes clear that writing is a fundamental business skill and that the quality of an organization’s communications activity can affect its survival. Offers an overview of some of the tools, methods, formats and media available for use in a communications campaign. Explains the connections between marketing and communications and reviews the various available communication tools. Outlines the general principles of business writing and then discusses the requirements of different media and formats. These include: websites, intranets and extranets; blogs; press or news releases; letters to the editor; newsletters; marketing literature; and reports. Concludes that, although business writing may seem to be bound by rules and standards, it is a very creative activity once the writer has developed a public relations or communications mindset.

Journal Article 3: Katz, I. R., Haras, C., & Blaszczynski, C. (2010). Does business writing require information literacy? Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 73, 135-149.

Abstract: Although the business community increasingly recognizes information literacy as central to its work, there remains the critical problem of measurement: How should employers assess the information literacy of their current or potential workers? In this article, we use a commercially available assessment to investigate the relationship between information literacy and the key business communication skill of business writing. Information literacy scores obtained prior to instruction predicted performance in an undergraduate, upper-division business writing course. Similar results emerged regardless of whether participants considered English their best language.

Journal Article 4: Jones, C. G. (2011). Written and computer-mediated accounting communication skills: An employer perspective. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 74, 247-271.

Abstract: Communication skills are a fundamental personal competency for a successful career in accounting. What is not so obvious is the specific written communication skill set employers look for and the extent those skills are computer mediated. Using survey research, this article explores the particular skills employers desire and their satisfaction level with new hires. Results indicate that basic writing mechanics are the skills in highest demand, followed by effective documentation. Except for email proficiency, employers do not consider computer-mediated communication competencies as important as traditional business communication skills. The article concludes with curricular implications for accounting communication.