The contemporary corporate environment requires people who are in sync with the communication skills that this fast-paced milieu requires. As this setting is continuously adapting to changing technology and global enterprises, it is necessary that participants familiarise themselves with the current oral and written processes. This text, honed over a number of years and through thousands of students, directs the reader to the most innovative communication approaches available to ensure success in the marketplace.

From the most basic but vital area of letter writing and emails to the significant field of report writing, this text prepares and enhances the skills of both the novice and seasoned professional. It also contains a chapter on small group dynamics to assist in understanding and developing teamwork strategies. Of course it is impossible to step foot in the company’s door without an impressive curriculum vitae and the acumen to perform exceptionally well during a stressful interview.

In addition to these areas of written communication, the text also provides detailed information on public speaking, including preparation, speech writing and presentation. In combination with this, there are chapters on visual literacy and design to assist the reader in creating striking advertisements and graphics which will undoubtedly appeal to a broad range of clients.

Essential business communication is designed to address the foremost areas of written and oral communication to ensure a profitable foray into the industry of work.

Prof. Dianne Shober heads the English department on the East London campus of the University of Fort Hare. Through teaching and her regular radio broadcast on Link FM, she has been able to apply the practical elements of her field.