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.
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CPA Communication Skills

Topic: Non-Verbal, Visual, & Electronic Communication

 

Lesson 3: Topic: Non-Verbal, Visual, & Electronic Communication

 

Electronic communication has revolutionized the speed, reach, and nature of business interaction, becoming the default channel for much routine and formal correspondence.

 

Email Communication:

 

  • Definition: The exchange of digital messages via the internet.
  • Types:
    • Internal Email: Operates on a company’s Local Area Network (LAN), replacing internal memos.
    • External Email: Sent via the internet to anyone with an email address.
  • Advantages:
    • Speed and Asynchronicity: Sent and read at the convenience of each party.
    • Low Cost and Global Reach.
    • Record-Keeping: Easy to file, search, and retrieve.
    • Attachments: Can send documents, images, and other files.
  • Disadvantages:
    • Impersonality and Tone: Lacks non-verbal cues, leading to misinterpretation.
    • Security Risks: Hacking, phishing, and malware.
    • Information Overload: Can lead to clogged inboxes and important messages being missed.
    • Misuse: Can be used for non-work purposes (“cyberslacking”).

 

Professional Email Etiquette:

 

  • Clear Subject Line: Accurately summarizes content.
  • Professional Salutation and Closing.
  • Concise and Scannable Body: Use short paragraphs and bullet points.
  • Formal Tone: Avoid slang, excessive exclamation points, and ALL CAPS (which is seen as shouting).
  • Careful with “Reply All” and CC/BCC.

 

Other Digital Tools:

 

  • Instant Messaging (IM)/Chat Apps: For quick, informal internal coordination (e.g., Slack, Teams).
  • Intranet/Extranet: Private networks for internal (intranet) or partner (extranet) communication.

Collaboration Platforms: Tools like SharePoint or Google Workspace for shared document editing and project management.