Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the lesson, you are expected to achieve the following:
1. Discuss the importance of oral communication skills in the workplace.
2. Describe the pressing challenges encountered by business communicators.
3. Expound on the fundamentals of online interviews.
4. Discuss the essentials of physical and virtual meetings.
5. Observe the etiquette of face-to-face and online meetings.
6. Show the ability to communicate through independent and group communicative
learning activities
Oral Communication in the Workplace
Your activity in the company or organization that you will be part of in the future involves a
lot of oral communication. More often than not, your daily tasks require effective
communication. Hence, your good communication skill is important because it helps you
and your company meet desired goals for personal and business productivity. The
importance of oral communication skill at the workplace is evident in various researches
conducted among organization executives, managers, employees and trainees. These
researches have revealed that effective oral communication skill takes the top place among
the business skills needed in the company for its quality performance.
Oral communication skill in business is highly valued. Without exception, everybody in
business needs it to communicate details of information, discuss strategies, map out plans,
close business agreements, work in teams, and deal with managers, employees, business
partners, guests or clients. To improve yourself, you also need communication skills to help
you initiate personal plans, lead project undertakings, and solve pressing problems.
Executives and managers need good communication skills to demonstrate effective
leadership, efficient transaction, quality performance, and excellent productivity.
Successful businesses have gained their good reputation because strong communication
skills are fully recognized and developed among employees. However, some companies’
need for employees with effective communication skill is all too often unfulfilled. Some
business transactions miss the mark as business people fail to convey a proper course of
communication.
Pressing Challenges in Workplace Communication
Communication has always been essential in any business’ growth and development. As
effective communication is needed to be able to operate and become successful, pressing
challenges do interfere and are likely to affect your work and communication in the future.
Business communicators have always encountered communication problems. Some of
these problems are sometimes hard to avoid or deal with. Andrea Campbell, author of Top
10 Team
Communication
Issues and How
to Avoid Them,
believes that
poor
communication
skills create
business
problems.
One of these is the team communication issues and problems among people at work.
Common cases being encountered are those with coworkers (1) losing trust with others, (2)
poor cooperation among team members, and sometimes (3) the disapproval or disrespect
from colleagues or immediate superior.
The said problems are considered communication challenges. The terms refer to the
problem when the manager does not provide feedback or coaching. If there is no feedback,
it means there is no communication. Campbell echoed the idea of Leigh Branham, the
author of 7 Hidden Reasons Employees Leave. She said, as quoted, that the root problems
of this issue are managers' inattention to people they supervise. They provide irregular or
nonexistent feedback. People get criticisms instead of praise. Worse is that feedback is not
valued or valuable at all.
To avoid or solve the issue, Branham suggested (1) improving coaching and feedback
especially among the new recruits; (2) setting up mentoring programs with experienced
employees; and (3) requiring managers to provide feedback.
Top Communication Issues
Campbell identified top ten communication issues that business communicators have to
consider to be able to avoid or solve them.
1. Failure to Listen. Ineffective listening is a big problem in communication. Good
communication fails when one doesn’t pay much attention or plan what to say before one
ends his statement. Many distractions affect effective listening. Team members are
distracted by the thoughts bothering his mind. They have short attention span. Other
distractions like noise and other physical barriers present in the environment take toll
resulting to communication failure. To avoid it, speakers have to emphasize the importance
of active listening in the discussion. Also point out that inattentiveness results to different
understanding of the topic being discussed. Speakers also have to maintain eye contact
during the conversation or discussion.
2. Culture Differences. The diversity of backgrounds and cultural customs create
communication issues among team members and leaders. People would just love to stay
along with people of the same background. Hence, leaders face challenges of grouping
and team communication hurdles. To avoid it, try to promote “unity in diversity” wherein
team members have to be assigned to different groups to break the usual grouping.
3. Locale or Distance to Office. The office location or its distance to its employees or
contributors entails problem in the communication. The company usually resorts to email,
phone or video conferencing. The very low level of interaction in electronic communication
poses a communication barrier. It causes misunderstanding and failures. To solve it,
meetings should be done at the nearest venue and on a regular schedule. Important issues
and solutions can be posted or sent to all for further knowledge and verification.
4. Ego and Attitude. Self-image or ego often affects team’s effort to execute plans. One’s
arrogance causes trouble, and more often, teamwork ends due to one’s defiance. Arrogant
team member could not accept the fact that he contributes to team’s problem. The
presence of conflict is evident when someone displays inequality or bias and doesn’t want
to take responsibility. To solve it, the team leader or manager should promote better
understanding as the group discusses the issue. He has to re-direct the group to be able to
meet the goals. Calmness and tactfulness help reduce tension and friction between or
among team members.
5. Authority or Hierarchy Problems. The authority that the team leader or manger
demonstrates more often creates intimidation or gap with team members. They become
shy and hesitant to approach or talk to their manager for authority being shown doesn’t
create friendly atmosphere. To resolve, managers or team leaders should promote
harmoniously relation among the team members. Communicate to the members about the
intention of helping and letting them feel they are important. And they can approach the
managers for consultation or discussion on personal or work-related issues.
6. Poorly Written Communication. The confusion or misunderstanding of in interoffice
business communication is due to poor content of written documents, substandard
organization, fractured grammar, among other flaws in written interoffice materials. To avoid
it, ensure that documents are well-edited and proofread by best editor in the department.
Allow other eyes to check for mistakes in grammar, spelling, punctuations, and
organizations.
7. Gender Bias. The choice of which gender makes a more effective leader in the
department is an issue of gender bias. This gender discrimination creates problem in the
organization. To avoid this, team leaders or managers should ensure that the issue on
gender choice is set aside in tackling issues or taking course of action for the department.
Speak about concerns without engaging in demeaning oneself. Avoid gender-bias language
or terms that connote gender. For example, use chairperson for chairman or chairwoman.
8. Focus or Listening Problems. Inability of employees to focus on the issue is equivalent to
listening problems. The generation gap is often the cause of communication barrier that
affects the achievement of department goals. To help avoid it, leaders or managers have to
initiate mutual understanding regardless of age. Encourage teamwork and unity despite
differences of age, sex, social status, and family background. Understand one’s weaknesses
and capitalize on one’s strength.
9. Inadequate Knowledge. Little knowledge is dangerous. Hence, team performance is
affected due to ineffective education or lack of understanding or other inadequate
knowledge foundation. To resolve it, leaders or managers encourage team members to
upgrade knowledge by pursuing higher degree programs. Include in the annual target plan
the participation of members to seminar, training or conferences. Promote reading culture in
the department and productive focus group discussion.
10. Cliques, Groups and Friendships. Group membership or group affiliation or exclusive
grouping of team members can sometimes create segregation. To avoid it, promote
teamwork spirit in the department. Conduct team building activities to promote objectivity,
teamwork, cooperation, and unity in diversity.
Preparing the Cover/ Application Letter
A few years from now, you will enter the world of professional work. Bur before you land in
any job, one of the first steps that you have to do is prepare a cover or application letter.
When you are applying for a new position, a cover letter is extremely important as your
resumé or curriculum vitae (CV). The purpose of the cover letter is to persuade your reader
to consider reading your resumé. This contains little information of the job which you are
applying, as well as your strongest qualities and qualifications.
Writing a Job Application Letter or a Cover Letter
Preparing A resume’ or a CV and application letters or cover letters are essential parts of job
hunting. A job application letter or a cover letter is like a sales letter in which you sell your
knowledge and competence. It is the most essential part of the application as this is far
more than just a note saying ‘Please find enclosed my CV’. Usually, this is the part of your
application that really sells you to your potential employer. Without a good cover letter,
your résumé is unlikely to be read.
Remember that your application letter is your selling factor. Your main goal is to market
yourself. Think about competition; your judges are your readers. They are professionals who
select and hire you. With hundreds or thousands of applicants, make sure that your
application letter has to standout. Therefore, your application letter and accompanying
resume have to attract professionals’ attention. Your final goal is to get an interview.
When you are writing the application letter, bear in mind to achieve the four important tasks:
● Catch the reader’s attention purposively.
● Tailor it to the company, to the employer, and to the job.
● Persuade the reader that you are a qualified applicant for the job.
● Request an interview.
After writing the application letter, use the checklist below to make sure your letter has
already met the needed information.
● The title of the job, source of your information and the statement of your objective
have to be clear.
● There should be a summary of your qualification for the job. This includes work
experience, educational background, and summary of relevant skills such as
leadership skills, skills, organizational skills, and intercultural communication skills.
● Indicate that you enclosed your CV or resumé.
● Request for an interview. This includes place and time you will be available and the
contact information such as phone numbers and email addresses.
● Identify the job. Include any information that is not included in your CV or resumé.
Before submitting your application letter, proofread it carefully. Free it from grammatical
mistakes and organizational inconsistencies. Check also for correct punctuations, margins,
spacing, and right letter format.
General guidelines for the overall structure of your cover letter:
● Format your cover letter for post, mail or email. It should consist of one page only.
● Include your complete address, email address, phone numbers.
● Use the tile of the person when you address him/her in the letter. If you can’t find a
name, write ‘Dear Sir/ Madamme.’
● Use standard, easy-to-read font. Make it readable. Times New Roman or Arial is
preferred; it should be no smaller than 11 for readability on screen.
Sample Application Letters
Two sample letters of application from JobStreet.com are presented below. The first letter
(Sample #1) follows the correct format that you should follow when sending out the
application letter in print form. The second letter (Sample #2) shows the tailored format
when submitting your application letter through email.
Sample 1 (Print Copy)
22 H Venture St., Diliman, Quezon City Philippines
April 17, 2015
Mr. Vincent Chua Hiring Manager Bank of the Philippines Islands (BPI) 12/F Ayala Life-FGU
Center, Ayala Ave. Makati City 1226
Dear Mr. Chua,
I am writing to express my interest for the position of Recruitment Assistant in your
esteemed company.
Having recently obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration major in Human
Resource Development Management (BSBA-HRDM) in the Polytechnic University of the
Philippines (PUP), I wish to bring my knowledge, skills and commitment to excellence to
your company’s innovative environment.
As a Business Administration student, majoring in HR management, I’ve become equipped
with the necessary knowledge that comes with the position including manpower
recruitment, workforce organization, personnel training and compensation as well as legal
provisions and other labor concerns.
My internship at San Miguel Corporation also afforded me with the crucial skills to work with
some of the best professionals in the recruitment and human resources industry. Being a
trainee has developed in me enthusiasm and a true passion for human resources and has
subsequently convinced me that human resource management is my true calling.
For additional details regarding my qualification and expertise, please review my attached
resume.
Thank you for taking the time to consider this application and I look forward to hearing from
you.
Sincerely,
(signature)
Jessica Cenadoza
Sample 2 (Email Copy)
Email Subject: Eric Tala, Marketing Associate Position
Dear Ms. Castañeda,
I would like to express my interest in applying for the position of Marketing Associate as was
recently made available in your company.
I believe that my degree in Business Administration (BSBA) major in Marketing from the
Philippine School of Business Administration (PSBA) has prepared me for this position. As a
student, I was equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to help develop and drive
effective marketing strategies.
During my internship at Uniliver Philippines’ Marketing Department, I learned how
companies determine what product or service to sell, how to reach target demographics
and how to respond to the demands of competitors. More importantly, I had the opportunity
to work with seasoned professionals who taught me how to easily grasp complex marketing
concepts and at certain times, how to roll with the punches in order to achieve various
objectives.
I have also acquainted myself with a wide range of skills that allow me to blend with the
group or team’s culture and to continuously strive to reach common goals amidst failures
and setbacks.
My active involvement in many academic and extracurricular activities has done so well in
developing my communication and leadership skills, which are vital in finding success in the
corporate world.
With this application letter, I attach herewith my resume for your full consideration. Thank
you for taking time to review my application and I am looking forward to your reply so that
we can further discuss my application.
Yours sincerely,
Alvin C. Marfal
7194 Marcelo Ave Parañaque City, Metro Manila
1700 Mobile: +63 929 XXX XXXX
NOTE: These application letter samples are for reference only. All information provided
should be considered as fictional
The Content of the Cover Letter
The Introductory Paragraph
Your first paragraph must be very convincing. It tells your reader that you are the best
person for the job. It also emphasizes that you have the set of skills and experience that
make you the ideal candidate for the post.
Examples:
1. I learned that you are in need of the position of English faculty and I believe that I have the
necessary credentials for this role. I have considerable working experience as an English
Language and Literature Professor, and I enclose my CV to support my application.
2. Please find attached CV in application for the job of financial analyst advertised on your
company’s website. I strongly believe that my competence and experience and particularly
my experience at ABC Company, and my ability to do financial reports make me the right
candidate for this post.
3. I am seeking a position as a manager in your Data Center. In such a management position,
I can use my master’s degree in information systems and my experience as a
programmer/analyst to address business challenges in data processing.
If someone from the company refers you, include in the opening before stating your main
objective.
Example:
During the recent International Research Conference in Vietnam, one of your research
heads, Dr. Rogine Madrigal, informed me of a possible opening for a research director in
your institution. My extensive background in research and my Master’s degree in
management make me highly qualified for the position.
In the succeeding paragraphs, expand on the qualifications you mentioned in your opening.
Add any appropriate details, highlighting experience listed on your resume that is especially
pertinent to the job you are seeking.
The Main Section
The main section of your cover letter should show the summary of your qualification,
organized around the job description and person specification. Describe in this section what
you have accomplished, your expertise, and your special skills needed for the job.
In this section, you also have to present how you performed your duty and demonstrated
the requirement of your previous job. Specific work of action and its effective results should
also be indicated to show that you did it successfully. In short, you have to show the clear
description of the situation and more on what you did as proof of results or outcomes.
The main section of your cover letter can be structured to show the sub-section or
sub-headings. The sub-section guides the human resource manager how each requirement
is met.
You may want to structure the main section of your cover letter into sub-sections, with
headings, to make it easier for the recruiter to see how you meet each requirement.
You can make use of the following phrases:
“My ability to manage ____________ speaks for itself: I have accomplished the ____________
in my department.”
“I hope it goes without saying from my list of previous jobs that I am extremely flexible and
good at __________________ .”
“I first developed my _____________(skill) in ___________(job), but have improved it since in
______________________(mention jobs).”
When you are done writing the main section, get back over it and check if you have already
mentioned every important skill and bits of experience that are considered crucial on the
person specification. Edit and polish until you have come up with the most ideal content of
an application letter. Most recruiters prefer shorter application containing only the most
essential skills, experiences, and accomplishments.
Sample:
I have obtained Doctor of Philosophy (Educational Management), Master of Arts in
Education (Major in English and Administration & Supervision), and Bachelor of Education
(Major in English, Minor in History). I have ample experience in teaching in both local and
international arenas. During the fifteen fruitful years in education, I have gained valuable
expertise on pedagogy and class management, among others, along with meaningful
experiences needed to pursue my mission and dreams in life. I have been very active in
academic and co-curricular endeavors in my desire to boost my self-esteem and build a
desirable character. As an active member of academic and civic organizations, I have
developed in myself the sense of integrity and responsibility towards other people by
helping and cooperating with humility. My other special skills include Research, Campus
Journalism, Book Writing, and Quality Assurance.
I am a positive and proactive person able to do the tasks posed by my superiors. With
sufficient Kaizen knowledge, I can easily execute plans and work details and expedite the
job to beat deadlines. Given a chance to work in your prestigious institution, I will humbly
discharge my duties and responsibilities for the welfare of the institution and its clienteles.
The Closing Paragraph
Your closing paragraph should be written concisely and neatly. It should make clear what
action the reader will be taking after reading your cover letter. But don’t sound arrogant.
So it might end, for example:
“I hope this convinces you that I have the necessary competence and experience to achieve
as ___________________ ( job title). I look forward to hearing from you.”
Close with a request for an interview.
“If you find my application desirable to your needs, I am willing to come for a personal
interview. I can be reached via my email: eudencellevillahermosa@yahoo.com or through
mobile: +639488005694.”
For a letter, end it with “Yours sincerely” if you have addressed it to someone by name, and
“Yours faithfully” if you started it with “Dear Sir/Madam”.
Remember: Before you submit your application letter or cover letter, proofread or polish it
carefully.
Designing the Curriculum Vitae
What is a CV or Résumé? Basically, your CV or resumé describes your education,
competence, and experience. It defines what kind of applicant you are for the job. It
determines if you are the right person for the job.
As one of the essential requirements for job hiring, your CV should demonstrate to any
prospective employer why they should hire you above any of the other skilled candidates
who have presented themselves for employment.
Basic Rules of CV Writing
In writing a curriculum vitae (CV) or resumé, like other forms of business writing, you should
always consider its reader (part of audience analysis, as discussed in Lesson 1). In this case,
your readers are the recruiters. They are usually the human resource managers or any other
staff in the recruitment department assigned to screen applicants through their CVs. Avoid
being eliminated by following these basic rules in writing a CV or resumé.
● Write with the recruiter or human resource manager in mind. Assume that you are
the recruiter. Think about what he needs to know about you. Consider the job
description.
● Present your CV or resumé to inform them well about what they need to know.
Show it in a way that it reveals very professional and credible information.
● A well-written CV or resumé limits the chance of not selecting you. It easily puts you
in the shortlist.
● CV or resumés are the most important documents needed in job screening. They
provide the highlights of your qualifications, work experiences, competence,
professional and educational history.
● In some academic institutions, the CV or resumé is the standard for job applications.
The objective of both CV and resumé remain. However, the appearance of the
document is noticeably different.
Resumé vs. Curriculum Vitae
There are three major differences between CVs and resumés: the length, the purpose, and
the layout.
A resumé is a brief summary of skills and skills over one or two pages. It is short with no
particular format rule and highly customizable. The goal of a resumé is to make an
individual stand out from the competition. A resumé does not have to be ordered
chronologically; it does not have to cover the whole career. The resume contains three
simple sections: name and contact information, education, and work experience. A CV, on
the other hand, is more detailed and can be more than two pages. It covers your entire
career history. It has a clear chronological order listing the whole career of the individual. In
writing your CV, you have to consider the following information: Areas of interest.
Education. Grants, honors and awards.
In writing your CV, you have to consider the following information:
● Areas of interest.
● Education.
● Grants, honors and awards.
● Publications and presentations.
● Employment and experience.
● Academic memberships.
● Character references.
Guidelines for Writing Effective CV
● Include your contact details at the top.
● Decide whether you want to start with a personal statement or career objective.
● Include sections on Key Skills, Knowledge and Achievements, Work Experience, and
Education.
● When discussing achievements, focus on what you have actually done and the end
result achieved.
● Include everything relevant in the ‘Work Experience’ and ‘Education’ sections.
● Make sure that your spelling and grammar are all correct.
● Work on your presentation.
CV Mistakes and Pitfalls to Avoid
● Do not be tempted to lie just to ‘look good’.
● Avoid leaving gaps in your career history.
● Do not start your CV with the dull bits.
● Do not include your hobbies and interests.
● Don't make your CV too long.
● Do not use an unprofessional email address.
Online Interviews
Many companies conduct online job interviews, since these interviews are more
cost-effective. In addition, applicants do not have to spend money for travel to the interview
site.
Online interviews require technology which has become mainstream in business. The use of
computers and other gadgets makes communication between the interviewer and
candidates simple and effective.
Job hunters find online interviews easy at the comfort of their home. It is time-saving and
less stressful. Online job interviews may vary depending on the company where one is
applying. Familiarity of these types of line job interviews may help job seekers achieve their
goal of landing a desired job.
One of the most typical online interviews is the webcam job interview. In this interview, the
interviewer will simply arrange the interview through video. Webcam interview requires a
camera, which is very convenient nowadays, as most of the laptops have built-in webcams.
The interviewer usually conducts interviews using popular video conferencing applications
like Skype, Zoom Cloud or Google Meet. Familiarizing with these applications is an
advantage to meet the requirements of the employer. Practicing the use of a webcam can
help ensure better focus and face angle. This ensures that you appear pleasing in the frame
of the camera.
Keep in mind that online interviews are as important as in-person interviews. Your online
interview could get you to the next stage of selection or even a job contract if the company
conducts the selection process online.
Here are some preparation tips that Alison Doyle has suggested for successful online
interviews.
● Download the software required by the company ahead of time so that you’ll have
the opportunity to get used to it.
● Create a professional username, such as a variation on your real name, as it appears
on your resume, if it’s available.
● Dress professionally even if you are sitting down. Wear nice pants and shoes, as you
never know when you will have to stand up. Plus, dressing the part will help you get
your head in the game.
● Clear your workspace and any clutter that is behind you so that it doesn't show up
on the screen. You don’t want your interviewer to be distracted by visual noise in the
room or to assume that your disorganized space is a sign of how you’d perform as a
worker.
● Make sure that you are in a quiet room where you will not be disturbed by people,
pets, etc. Turn off your ringer, any alarms, and electronics that are likely to interrupt.
● Have a piece of paper and a pen ready so that you are not scrambling to find them
later.
● Have a copy of your resume in your sightline in case you have to refer to dates, job
titles, or numbers.
● Smile and focus as much as possible and try to behave as if you’re in a regular,
in-person interview. Look into the camera, listen attentively, and engage with your
interviewer. Don’t just wait for your turn to speak.
● Practice using your webcam equipment before the interview, so you are sure
everything is in working order and that you’re comfortable interviewing on video.
Physical and virtual meetings
The outset of technology and the advancement of internet connectivity give favors to many
businesses. Business meetings and contract deals have been eased by the use of
computers and smartphones.
More often, these meetings are now conducted virtually. Workmates can meet over
telephone conferences using cellphone features and state-of-the-art software applications,
which are commonly known now as Apps.
Businessmen, investors, entrepreneurs, sales agents and clients can do more business
transactions over video conferencing. However, there are some business enterprises that
still use face to face meetings because they believe they are still effective.
Virtual Meeting and its Benefits
Virtual meetings can be done using technological innovations like computers and software
applications. Doyle (2019) explains that people attending virtual meetings do not need to
leave their home or work station. The meeting can be held over the phone or computer
using virtual meeting software like Google Meet, Zoom Cloud, and Skype.
With these applications, virtual meetings can be done any time, hence the distance is no
longer a problem. Doyle further shares that people can take part in the meeting regardless
of where they are. In other words, they can hold meetings and discuss business concerns
without having to travel all the way.
Virtual meetings save time and energy. For example, when working on a project, the team
leader and his members do not need to travel all the way to the office to discuss the details
during a meeting. This is just but one of the many other scenarios when virtual meetings will
come easy.
Virtual meetings are also inexpensive. Everybody only needs a computer, laptop, or
smartphone, a good internet connection, and a professional virtual meeting software. A
good environment adds flavor to an effective meeting. This does not need much money on
arranging a meeting place, the facilities and equipment to be used and organizing
transportation for attendees.
The tenets in online interviews as discussed in previous topics are applicable to virtual
meetings.
Face to Face Meeting and its Benefits
Face to face meetings are the usual meetings that are conducted by people in the same
venue and in person. The place can be in the office, at a restaurant, a conference room, or at
the coffee shop. Like the virtual meetings, face to face meeting has it benefits.
Meeting people face to face is freer than it is held online. People can express their thoughts
and feelings using their body language, hand gestures, and facial expressions. Hence, they
can communicate better and misunderstandings are less likely to happen.
When meeting face to face, people have to be at the particular venue at the given time.
They will be attending the meeting and nobody should waste their time. All should observe
professionalism and should not be distracted by other things like phone calls, messages, or
other personal or family concerns. They must observe discipline and keep a serious
environment to be able to give the best for the meeting.
Feedback is an important aspect of face to face meetings. Getting feedback from the
attendees provides input in the development of something that requires cooperation and
teamwork. Face to face is the best for brainstorming and planning. It can establish stronger
relationships and create better teamwork; people can understand each other very well.
Face-to-Face and Online Meetings Etiquette
Many companies remain intact and hold both physical and virtual meetings as essential
parts of the operation to maintain productivity and continuity. As many may have known the
rules in physical meetings, rules on online meetings may not be as popular.
Virtual meeting etiquette is a whole new idea that many people have to learn, compared to
face. To help you keep your meetings productive and professional, follow these seven
simple virtual meeting etiquette rules that every professional should know.
1. Know your surroundings
Virtual meetings or online class sessions require a quiet and conducive place where
learnings and mutual understanding can be achieved. Organize the place, free it from
distractions, and provide good lighting. Do not appear that you are inside the cave or
less-lighted museum. You want to avoid looking like you are at the town fiesta because of
the pile of clothes and accessories in the corner behind you.
Adjust your place setup so your face favors the light. Make sure that you have a professional
background. It must be work appropriate. This means that no beds are in the background,
no messy rooms or open closets, and no nonsense arts or frameworks.
Free the place from unhealthful noise like screaming children, barking dogs, or honking
cars.
2. Dress appropriately
Your attire should be work or school appropriate. Your appearance online is as important as
your look during a face-to-face meeting. Hence, take a few minutes to dress up on a clean
cloth and well-brushed hair. Women may consider putting on a light make-up to look fresh
on the screen.
Think that the best part of actually getting ready while working remotely is that you want to
be effective and productive.
3. Listen carefully.
Be an active listener. While attending a virtual meeting, devote your full attention to the
meeting.
Leave the computer keyboard alone. Remember that your typing may distract your focus. It
prevents you from devoting your full attention to the details of the meeting. Pick a good
headset, your notebook and pen to take essential notes.
4. Unmute your microphone when you wish to talk.
When you are not going to talk, keep your microphone on the mute mode. The sound you
create from your audio annoys other people attending the virtual meeting. It is really
frustrating to hear echo noise or unnecessary sounds from the surrounding. Other attendees
will appreciate you because you want to save them from ear-splitting noise and help them
be productive.
Muting your audio when you are not speaking allows other attendees the chance to fit in
and share their views and feelings.
5. Speak clearly
When you join any virtual meeting, introduce yourself and say hello or hi. Make sure that the
people in the meeting hear and notice your presence. Hence, make your voice clear.
Modulate it well if necessary to make you sound pleasant to the ears.
If you come late in the meeting, you may use the chat box to greet the people and to let
them know of your presence.
6. No food, please.
No eating is a strict rule that participants have to observe during the virtual meeting.
Chewing some food or sipping some drinks may show disinterest and may be perceived as
unprofessional.
To avoid craving for food during a virtual meeting, eat a few minutes before the actual time
of meeting.
7. Remain seated and stay present
Stay focused. Be patient staying seated while attending the meeting. Don’t ever try to open
your email inbox or chat with friends on social media messenger.
Doing other things while attending a virtual meeting might distract other participants. You
had better turn off your webcam if there is an emergency or a very important personal
needs to attend to.
Writing Correspondence via Print or Email
Business transactions and negotiations are communicated effectively using different
channels. In the advent of computer technology, most business organizations communicate
through the internet and platforms of social media. Despite the efficiency brought by the
internet, some companies still utilize the typical business letters to communicate with other
businesses, their clients, and other stakeholders.
Business letters are formal letters used for business-to-business, business-to-client, or
client-to-business correspondence. There are a number of elements to a business letter.
These are date and sender’s address, recipient’s address, salutation, body of the letter, and
closing paragraph (Gamble, 2017).
A business letter uses a formal language. The style of the letter depends on the relationship
between the parties concerned. A business letter is written for many reasons. It is used to…
● request direct information or action from another party
● order supplies from a supplier
● identify a mistake that was committed
● reply directly to a request
● apologize for a wrong or simply to convey goodwill.
A business letter is also very useful because it…
● produces a permanent record
● is confidential and formal
● delivers persuasive and well-considered messages
In writing a business letter, the most important element that you need is to ensure its
accuracy. You should know the type of business letter you are writing to be able to
determine the accuracy of its details.
Writing Center of the University of North Carolina explained that business writing should be
clear and concise. Hence, in writing you take care that the documents would not turn out to
be an endless series of short, choppy sentences. Keep in mind that your purpose is to
communicate the information and be understood by your reader.
Always consider your audience or the ones who will read your letter. Don’t confuse your
reader. Stress specificity and accuracy. Observe formality and sincereness. But don’t be too
formal that you alienate readers, nor too casual that your readers may feel you are insincere
or unprofessional. In giving information that might harm the reader’s feeling, be diplomatic
and respectful. The letter should reflect the unique purpose and considerations involved,
like the reader’s feeling and character, when writing in a business context.
Uychoco and Santos (2018) of Communication for Society Purposive Communication,
explained that business letters should be clear, concise, and organized. Its introductory
paragraph should be brief establishing the content and purpose of the letter. Its middle
section should contain the details of the message in logical order. Its concluding paragraph
is short, politely requesting action, thanking the reader, or providing additional important
information.
For beginners, it is a good idea to read or review business letters and emails examples from
your office or from the internet before writing your own. Sample letters of different types
are available in many sites in the internet. Business communication books and manuals also
provide good samples for you to review. Examples can help you see what kind of content or
how it is organized in the letter. Examples can also help you learn about the layout and
format of the letter.
Preparing Endorsement and Follow-up Letters
Preparing an endorsement and follow-up letter may be easy to some but, to others this
writing tasks is challenging because these letters are rarely written or seldom required at
work.
However, more often, still many people do not know how to write endorsement and
follow-up letters. If, in case, you are tasked to write endorsement or follow-up letter, follow
the useful ways below. Online source WriteExpress provides useful tips that you may
consider in writing request and give endorsement letters.
Request an Endorsement
1. State who you are, the name of your company or organization, and your position or role.
Remind the reader of your relationship to him/her, if necessary.
2. Use clear, specific language to request the endorsement (clearly describe what it is that
you would like endorsed).
3. Explain why you are requesting the endorsement, what it will be used for, why you feel
that the endorsement is necessary or why you merit receiving the endorsement, and so
forth.
4. Include guidelines for the format, length, or content of the endorsement letter. Also,
indicate anything else that the reader needs to do to provide the endorsement, such as
filling out attached forms and the like.
5. Indicate by when you need the letter of endorsement.
6. Consider providing a preaddressed, stamped envelope with your request letter if the
endorsement letter is to be mailed.
7. If you plan to make a follow-up call to the reader, indicate in your letter when you intend
to do so.
8. Thank the reader for considering the endorsement.
Give an Endorsement
1. Indicate what or who it is that you are endorsing.
2. Substantiate (or give reasons for) your endorsement.
3. If you are endorsing a person for a particular position, role, job, etc., include how long you
have known the person, in what capacity, the positive qualities of the person that make
him/her a suitable candidate for endorsement (including accomplishments and abilities),
etc. Be as specific as possible.
4. If necessary, indicate the next step that should be taken or what will happen next. Include
a time frame, if appropriate.
5. You may want to include your contact information and offer to give further information
upon request.
6. Conclude your letter by summarizing the reasons for the endorsement and by restating
your endorsement of the person or project, etc.
Writing a Follow-up Letter
A follow-up letter is as important as other forms of communication. It is an effective means
of establishing a good relationship between you and the recipient.
A follow-up letter is best written after a business meeting, or a job interview, or after making
a great business contract. It provides an avenue for continued communication and connects
the points discussed and agreed during the previous meeting.
When writing a follow-up letter, make sure to observe grammar flaws and spelling errors. A
well-written follow-up letter can make a great impact on your future career and expected
success.
As you write the follow-up letter, bear in mind that it needs to be fairly formal. Use more
appropriate words and phrases. Write your thoughts straight to the point. Do not go around
the bush. Read and proofread it thoroughly. Use grammar checking tool and a
comprehensive spell checker. Keep a good dictionary as your essential reference for words.
Let's consider some tips from LearnEnglish to help you write a better follow-up letter:
Here are what you need to include:
● Start with your name, address, city and zip code, telephone number. Include next the
recipient’s details. Note that in a follow-up letter you are going to write to the same
person you had originally written to or contacted with.
● Add the salutation.
● In the first line, mention that you had written earlier and haven’t received a response
yet. You can mention here if you had called. Actually, you’ll let him know that you’re
re-writing in this line.
● State your request or interest. If you are writing inquiring about a job vacancy for
which you had sent a job application, reiterate your key skills experiences and state
why you think you are a great potential.
● Invite for contact and thank for their attention.
● Close with signature.
Here are more things that you’ll need to remember than the actual steps to write the letter:
● Add fresh insights to your old appeal. Don’t write a photocopy of your old letter.
● Take at best 2 days after a meeting or a job interview to write a follow-up letter.
Work while the memories are still fresh in the recipient’s mind.
● If you’ve sent a CV, wait 7 days before sending the follow-up letter. The employer is
likely very busy, hence the late response, so keep your letter short. Do not bring up
your whole CV in the letter. Hold the interest and attention with nice wording, not
boring.
● Do not convey negative sentiments in your letter, even if you are frustrated by their
speed and sincerity.
● Indicate how you want to proceed next in your letter if you think it is needed.
● Be extremely polite even if you feel like they’ve been ignoring you by ignoring your
past letters.
● To look polished and professional, edit and proofread a couple of times before
sending the actual letter.
● If you want, you can attach copies to document proof that you had sent letters
earlier.
● Follow up again if required.
Sample Follow-up Letters
Sample A
Hello David,
Thanks for a great meeting yesterday. I feel the presentation was a success, and the
feedback from you and your team was encouraging. Based on some of the points raised by
you in the meeting, I had some further ideas, particularly related to the print media
campaign. I hope I can raise them next time we meet.
Speaking of which, how about we schedule another presentation in around a week's time? I
can then prepare the projection reports your team asked for. I will call you by the end of the
week to confirm a meeting time.
Yours Sincerely,
Gareth Ewing
Sample B
Dear Dr. Greg,
It was great speaking with you and the team last time. We are all excited about this new
partnership between your university and ours.
I would like to gently follow up on the memorandum of agreement which we discussed last
meeting. Once I receive the agreement, I will endorse it to our legal department for review,
and will return it to you the soonest so our universities can commence with our activities.
I am looking forward to a productive partnership with you. Cheers!
Best regards,
Dr. Kristoffer
WRITING NETIQUETTE
Whether you are writing text messages, emails, memos, letters and posts on social media in
a professional context, you should be familiar with proper etiquette for using the internet. It
is called “netiquette.”
What is netiquette? The term refers to THE right manner or protocol for communication on
the Internet. What we create, post and do via online technologies can leave a lasting image.
The text messages, emails, photographs or blogs we post on a web page or social media
accounts can create an impression of your personality. The nasty remarks or reactions you
post on your Facebook page or Tweeter newsfeed may come back to haunt you later.
In writing in an online environment, you do not only need tact and skill but also an
impression that will boost you character. Awareness that what you are write or post online,
which may be there for a long time, should be considered before writing or posting. The text
messages, letters, business proposals, press releases, or any written communication will
represent yourself and your company. Hence, you should observe the etiquette or protocol
of writings that are clear, concise, constructive, and professional.
Listed on the next page are the several guidelines that you may consider before writing and
posting online.
Texting
Always consider your audience and your company, and choose words, terms, or
abbreviations that will deliver your message appropriately and effectively.
● Know your recipient.
● Use appropriate symbols and codes.
● Never abuse text messaging.
● Don’t text while driving.
Email
Email is very useful for messages for personal or business purposes. It contains slightly
more content than a text message. In more established companies, they prefer to use with
fairly brief messages for efficient and effective communication.
● Start with proper salutation.
● Use clear, short and specific subject line.
● End with your name, company information and signature.
● Avoid abbreviations.
● Observe conciseness and good format.
● Reread, revise and review before sending to intended recipients.
● Reply promptly and use “Reply All” sparingly.
● Avoid using all caps.
● Give feedback or follow up.
● Test provided links.
● Avoid sending emails with large files.
The sample email below demonstrates the principles listed above.
From: Steve Jobs <sjobs@apple.com>
To: Human Resources Division <hr@apple.com>
Date: September 12, 2015
Subject: Safe Zone Training
Dear Colleagues:
Please consider signing up for the next available Safe Zone workshop offered by the
College. As you know, our department is working toward increasing the number of Safe
Zone volunteers in our area, and I hope several of you may be available for the next
workshop scheduled for Friday, October 9.
For more information on the Safe Zone program, please visit
http://www.cocc.edu/multicultural/safe-zone-training/
Please let me know if you will attend.
Steve Jobs
CEO Apple Computing
sjobs@apple.com
Memos
As “in house” or company’s documents, memoranda, or memos, are one of the most
adaptable document forms used in professional settings. They are usually used for asking
and giving information, company policy, business reports and proposals. They are often
used to inform but they are sometimes to persuade. Most companies nowadays use
template for their memos and letters.
Memos are “in house” documents (sent within an organization) to pass along or request
information, outline policies, present short reports, and propose ideas. While they are often
used to inform, they can also be persuasive documents. A company or institution typically
has its own “in house” style or template that is used for documents such as letters and
memos.
● Follow strictly the institutional memo format.
● Complete the memo header block. It appears at the top left side of the memo,
immediately under the word Memo or Memorandum. It is always in large, bold and
capitalized letters. Place a horizontal line under your header block, and place your
message below.
TO: (Provide the recipient’s full name, and position or title within the organization)
FROM: (Include the sender’s full name and position or title
DATE: (Indicate the full date on which the memo is sent)
SUBJECT or RE: (A brief phrase that concisely describes the main content of your memo)
● Organize the memo message very well. Regardless of the length, memo message
should follow an organization principle. In writing the memo, you should consider the
following questions: Do I have to read this? Why do I have to read this? What do I
need to know? What am I expected to do now or later?
The length of a memo can range from a few short sentences to a multi-page report that
includes figures, tables, and appendices. Whatever the length, there is a straightforward
organizational principal you should follow. Organize the content of your memo so that it
answers the following questions for the reader:
1. Opening: Do I have to read this? Why do I have to read this?
2. Details: What do I need to know?
3. Closing: What am I expected to do now?
Letters
Letters are written communications usually sent to intended recipients that are outside the
organization. They are usually printed on letterhead paper bearing the business name,
address and contact numbers.
Along with emails and memos, the company still uses letters to communicate formally with
a potential employer (application/cover letter) or introduce a product or service or other
purposes (Transmittal letters, Recommendation letters, Complaint letters, Petition letters
etc.)
There are many types of letters and carry different forms and contents. In this lesson, the
fifteen elements of a traditional block-style letter are considered.
Below is the sample letter of transmittal from Technical Writing Essentials by Suzan Last
meant to introduce a technical report to its recipient.
https://coccoer.pressbooks.com/app/uploads/sites/41773/2015/10/SampleLetter.pdf
In writing letters, observe the seven (7) main parts:
1. Letterhead/logo: Sender’s name and return address
2. The heading: names the recipient, often including address and date
3. Salutation: “Dear ______ ” use the recipient’s name, if known.
4. The introduction: establishes the overall purpose of the letter
5. The body: provides the details of the message
6. The conclusion: restates the main point and may include a call to action
7. The signature line: often includes the contact information