Cover of Guide to Managerial Communication

Guide to Managerial Communication

Effective Business Writing and Speaking

By: Mary Munter

ISBN: 9780132424264

For undergraduate and MBA courses in Management Communication, Writing, or Oral Presentations courses, and Executive Seminars or Workshops. Guide to Managerial Communication is a clear, concise, practical text for effective written and oral communication in a managerial, business, government, or professional context. The Eighth Edition adds contemporary content throughout.

Format: BOOK
Publisher: Pearson Education India
Pages: 204
Published: 2009
Language: en

AI Overview

The "Guide to Managerial Communication" by Mary Munter is a comprehensive textbook designed to help managers develop effective written and oral communication skills in a business setting. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

  1. Communication Strategy:

    • The book emphasizes the importance of a strategic approach to communication, covering five strategic variables:
      • Communicator Strategy: Objectives, style, and credibility.
      • Audience Strategy: Understanding who the audience is, what they know, what they feel, and how to motivate them.
      • Message Strategy: How to emphasize and organize the message.
      • Channel Choice Strategy: Deciding when to write and when to speak.
      • Culture Strategy: How cultural differences affect communication strategy.
  2. Writing Techniques:

    • The book provides practical skills and strategies for effective business writing, including:
      • General composing techniques.
      • Special composing challenges.
      • Document design for high skim value.
      • Clear progression and linkage.
      • Effective paragraphs and sections.
      • Editing for brevity.
      • Choosing a style.
  3. Speaking Skills:

    • The speaking section covers various aspects of business communication, including:
      • Verbal structure in presentations, question-and-answer sessions, meetings, and other speaking situations.
      • Visual aids such as design, equipment, and practice.
      • Nonverbal delivery and listening skills.

Plot Summary

The book is organized into four main sections:

  1. Communication Strategy:

    • This section lays the foundation for effective managerial communication by analyzing the five strategic variables.
  2. Writing:

    • Chapters II, III, and IV delve into the writing process, covering general techniques, macro issues (document design, structural signposts), and micro issues (editing for brevity, choosing a style). The appendices provide additional resources on writing formats, grammar, and punctuation.
  3. Speaking:

    • Chapters V, VI, and VII focus on the verbal, visual, and nonverbal aspects of business speaking, including presentations, question-and-answer sessions, meetings, and other speaking situations.
  4. Reference:

    • The final section includes appendices with business writing formats, unbiased language guidelines, grammar, and punctuation rules, as well as a bibliography listing the sources used in the book.

Critical Reception

The book has been well-received for its practical approach to managerial communication. Here are some points from critical reviews:

  • Practicality: The book is praised for its clear and concise guidance, making it easy for managers to apply the strategies in real-world scenarios.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: It covers a wide range of topics from communication strategy to specific writing and speaking techniques, making it a comprehensive resource for managers.
  • Relevance: The book remains relevant even in modern business environments, with its focus on cultural differences and nonverbal communication skills.

Overall, "Guide to Managerial Communication" by Mary Munter is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their communication skills in a business context. Its strategic approach, practical techniques, and comprehensive coverage make it a highly recommended textbook for both students and professionals.