The ability to communicate effectively in business is essential to both the individual and the organization. For the individual, effective communication skills are necessary in getting the job initially, accomplishing assigned tasks, and advancing to higher positions within an organization. For the organization, effective communication results in developing and maintaining goodwill among employees, customers, and business associates while getting the job done efficiently.

Communication skills can be developed through the process of analyzing communication, using the principles and techniques of good writing, and practicing the creation of different forms of communication. In all types of communication, it is important to determine the purpose of the communication, the intended audience, and the content. As you organize your message in a clear, concise, correct, and logical manner, you need to maintain a positive tone. When your written message passes the six tests of effective correspondence (the six Cs), you have reached your goal of building goodwill. You will also have achieved your purpose to request, inform, or persuade your receiver to respond positively. The techniques of composing business correspondence presented in this text will help you produce letters, memos, e-mail messages, and reports that achieve their purpose.