Business Communication Certificate 

offered by Duke University

Recognize the difference between ineffective and effective writing

List and define the four major factors of effective writing (clarity, tone, organization, and delivery)

Recognize the role of the audience in effective communication and the importance of understanding an audience's needs

Employ formal and informal outlining techniques

List and recognize techniques for overcoming writer's block

Recognize the importance and dangers of writing quickly

Revise for wordiness, unnecessary phrases, redundancy, and jargon

Write more effective emails and recognize the appropriate use of email in an organizational setting

Employ checklists for organizing, writing, and revising

Describe the seven stages of giving a speech or presentation

Discuss the elements of establishing your purpose for speaking (Stage One)

Recognize the need to consider your audience (Stage Two)

Describe how to develop your central message (Stage Three)

Explain how to employ evidence in supporting your main points (Stage Four)

Discuss how to craft your speech (Stage Five)

Explain how to rehearse for your speech (Stage Six)

Describe techniques for delivering your speech (Stage Seven)

Recognize best practices for employing slides in your presentation

Describe key techniques for dealing with speech anxiety

Discuss how to handle difficult questions

Describe effective responses when things go wrong

Recognize when it's appropriate to use an email, a memo, or a letter

Explain the parts of an email, a memo, and a letter, and format each so that the communication is effective

Consider primary and secondary uses for the email, memo, or letter

Explain how to facilitate both primary and secondary uses

Create a sample email, memo, and letter employing best practices

Identify the factors in interpersonal communication

Modify communication strategies to be successful in small and large groups

Devise a strategy for working effectively in remote settings, including in telework settings

Explain the purpose of various types of meetings and explain the outcomes expected

Attend a meeting and perform the role of an effective communicator in the meeting

Prepare for, moderate, and follow up after a meeting to ensure effective use of organizational resources

Document a meeting and distribute minutes or a meeting summary as appropriate