University Oral Communication Analysis: MGT502 Business Communication

This discussion post analyzes the importance of oral communication in a business context. It highlights the advantages, such as its efficiency in rapid decision-making and its cost-effectiveness compared to written communication, particularly for those who cannot read. The post also acknowledges the disadvantages, including the lack of a permanent record, potential for miscommunication, and challenges in international business settings. It emphasizes the role of effective oral communication in building trust, resolving conflicts, and understanding the emotions behind information. The analysis is based on research by Coffelt, Baker & Corey (2016), and Lucas & Rawlins (2015), providing a comprehensive overview of the topic. This assessment is a discussion forum post for the MGT502 Business Communication course.

Running head: ORAL COMMUNICATION
Oral Communication
Name of Student:
Name of the University:
Author note:

1ORAL COMMUNICATION
Oral communication has proven itself to be one of the most pervasive mediums for
communication. Majority of the people in the world spend most of their time engaged in oral
communication since it is so easy to use (Coffelt, Baker & Corey, 2016). There are only a
few skills in business that are as important as communication.
Oral communication saves a lot of time for many people since it is mostly used when
rapid or immediate action is required. Higher executives and managers can just walk down to
their subordinates’ office and give them oral instructions on what to do, instead of waiting for
them to acknowledge an email. Managers also use this type of communication when they
have the task that requires them to persuade or control someone, as it is much more efficient
that any message that would be written (Lucas & Rawlins, 2015). Oral communication also
saves a lot of money and has proven to be effective for everyone since written
communication would only be appropriate to people who can read.
As effective as oral communication may be, there are still some disadvantages.
Messages that are orally conveyed in the business place have no legal validity unless its
written down or recorded to be made a permanent record. Also, when wrong messages are
conveyed orally, it becomes very difficult to assign anybody the responsibility for it because
this type of communication is not taken to be official. Companies that conduct business in
other countries will face problems when trying to use oral communication because that may
not always be possible. Additionally, in these situations there are increased chances of the
meaning becoming distorted and can create confusion.
Effective communication in the workplace helps all the employees and the higher
executives to better understand another individual’s situation and help to resolve any
important difference that may be there. Effective oral communication also helps build trust

2ORAL COMMUNICATION
and respect between colleagues and help understand the emotion behind the information that
is conveyed.

3ORAL COMMUNICATION
References:
Coffelt, T. A., Baker, M. J., & Corey, R. C. (2016). Business communication practices from
employers’ perspectives. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 79(3),
300-316.
Lucas, K., & Rawlins, J. D. (2015). The competency pivot: Introducing a revised approach to
the business communication curriculum. Business and Professional Communication
Quarterly, 78(2), 167-193.