Course Content
Introduction to Communication
Offers basic defintions, objectives and principles of effective communication. Describes the major barriers to effective communication. Describes the different methods of communication, formal and informal communication styles, systems and devices.
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Written Communication & Business Correspondence
Business correspondence, often written, forms an important part of the communications process for accounting or business professionals
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Oral Communication & Presentation Skills
This topic helps the learner understand and navigate the requirements of any oral communications in a corporate environment
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Non-Verbal, Visual, & Electronic Communication
Communication is not always oral or written. Non-verbal, visual and electronic communication is equally important in any social environment.
CPA Communication Skills

Topic 3: Oral Communication & Presentation Skills

 

Lesson 5: Communication Ethics and Overcoming Barriers

 

Ethical and effective oral communication requires not only skill but also integrity and an awareness of common pitfalls.

 

Unethical Practices in Communication:

 

  1. Plagiarism: Presenting another person’s ideas or words as your own.
  2. Propaganda and Bias: Deliberately manipulating information to deceive or unfairly influence an audience.
  3. Fallacies: Using flawed logic or misleading arguments (e.g., personal attacks, hasty generalizations).
  4. Withholding Information: Intentionally omitting critical facts that would alter understanding.
  5. Misrepresentation: Exaggerating or distorting the truth.

 

Guidelines for Ethical Communication:

 

  • Be Honest and Truthful.
  • Give Credit to Sources.
  • Respect Confidentiality.
  • Communicate with Integrity: Avoid manipulation and deceit.
  • Be Inclusive and Respectful of diverse perspectives.

 

Cross-Cultural Communication Considerations:

 

  • Cognitive Constraints: Different worldviews and frames of reference.
  • Behavioral Constraints: Varying norms for eye contact, gestures, and personal space.
  • Emotional Constraints: Cultural differences in the display and interpretation of emotions.
  • Language and Accent Differences: Can lead to simple misunderstandings.

 

When to Prefer Oral Over Written Communication:

 

  • When immediate feedback is needed.
  • When the message is sensitive or confidential.
  • When persuasion or motivation is the goal.
  • When building or maintaining a personal relationship is important.
  • When the situation is complex and requires discussion to resolve.

Final Note: Mastering oral communication, presentations, and listening transforms an individual from a mere participant into an influential leader, an effective team member, and a trusted professional capable of driving results through the power of spoken interaction.