Professional communication

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Professional communication is a sub-genre found within the study of communications. This subset encompasses written, oral, visual, and digital communication within a workplace context. It is based upon the theory of professional communications, which is built on the foundation that for an organization to succeed, the communication network within must flow fluently. The concepts found within this sub-set aim to help professional settings build a foundational communication network to better steady the flow of operations and messages from upper-level management. The second part of professional communication can also aim and assist to help within the public relations department of a particular company or organization, as these messages might be delivered to those unfamiliar with the organization or the general public.^[1]

It is a new discipline that focuses on the study of information and the ways it is created, managed, distributed, and consumed. Since communications is a rapidly changing area, technological progress seems to often outpace the number of available expert practitioners. This creates a demand for skilled communicators.^[2]

Communication skills are critical in practically all workplaces, and many day-to-day tasks performed at work are related to the field in some way. Examples of professional communication in the workplace could include emails, faxes, meetings, memos, or PowerPoint presentations, all of which may be deemed essential to completing work and achieving goals or quotas.^[3]

The field is closely related to that of technical communication, though professional communication encompasses a wider variety of skills.

• • Professional communication** refers to the exchange of information, ideas, or messages in a business or formal setting, aiming to achieve specific goals such as collaboration, decision-making, or conflict resolution. It encompasses various forms, including written (emails, reports), verbal (meetings, presentations), and non-verbal communication (body language, tone). Effective professional communication is clear, concise, and audience-focused, ensuring that messages are understood and lead to desired outcomes. Key skills include active listening, adapting communication styles to different audiences, and using appropriate tools and channels for delivering messages. Maintaining professionalism, respect, and cultural sensitivity is essential in all forms of professional communication.