Date of Award

1998

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Business

First Advisor

Carolyn Scott

Second Advisor

Thomas Dehner

Third Advisor

Bobbi Linkemer

Abstract

This thesis will examine a variety of business communication styles and show how various forms of communication can have an impact on a company's profitability.

Although a number of variables have been known to contribute to a company's bottom line - sales volume, cost of production, quality of products, etc. - only in the last ten to fifteen years have companies begun to look at the impact their business communication techniques have on productivity.

In these times of downsizing, rightsizing, and reengineering, it is more important than ever to maintain open lines of communication among all levels of employees. It is no longer enough to maintain good communication within your department or work group. It must go beyond those lines to other departments and other locations. A company must be able to operate as a finely tuned machine, with all departments and locations working together. There must be as much concern shown for the internal customer as there is for the external customer.

This paper looks at more than just how words are spoken and messages received. It delves into overall employee treatment and

employee development as forms of communication. Areas covered include empowering workers to identify problems and solutions; sharing more financial information to build a stronger team; using humor and fun to develop better morale; and various ways to instill a culture of ownership - even in companies without profit sharing plans.

Many companies with innovative ideas are mentioned in this thesis. Some are focused on more in depth due to their broad ranging communicative cultures. Clear examples are given to support the theory that companies that are committed to thoroughly implementing two-way communication systems throughout their work environment have happier employees. These employees are more productive and involved in problem solving and growth. Ultimately, these companies are more productive than the average company, and employees are the most challenged.

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