Introduction
Welcome to Introduction to Organizational Communication, your textbook for the COM 2250 course at Pikes Peak State College in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
This course focuses on effective communication in professional environments. Whether you are planning to work in an office setting, welding or automotive shop, television studio, or any other place related to your degree, you know–at least on a fundamental level–that how you communicate changes depending on the context of your situation; specifically, you talk differently when you speak to customers/clients versus your co-workers versus your supervisors.
Our goal in this text is to break down the communication process in professional environments so you can maximize your chances of getting hired and retaining your job once you graduate from university. We will achieve this by examining communication through political, rhetorical, ethical, and interpersonal lenses and applying this knowledge to your future career.
About This Textbook
This textbook is designed to help you build practical, workplace-ready communication skills while giving you a solid foundation in the theory and strategy behind organizational communication. It’s divided into eleven chapters that reflect key areas you’ll encounter in college, your job search, and your professional life beyond graduation.
Chapter One: Introduction to Communication
We begin with the basics: What is communication? You’ll explore foundational models, types of communication, and how competence develops over time.
Chapter Two: Introduction to Organizational Communication
Next, we shift into the organizational context. What counts as an organization? How are they structured? This chapter also introduces different communication flows (upward, downward, lateral) and the role of informal networks in shaping workplace culture.
Chapter Three: Developing Workplace Communication Competence
Strong communication starts within. This chapter explores intrapersonal communication, perception, listening, and intercultural awareness, which are critical skills for navigating the diverse environments you’ll work in.
Chapter Four: Understanding Organizational Culture
Every organization has its vibe. In this chapter, you’ll examine culture’s role in shaping behavior, communication patterns, and workplace identity.
Chapter Five: Communicating Effectively in the Workplace
Here, we turn to practical tools. You’ll learn how to participate in meetings, manage your emotions, motivate others, and use communication strategically on the job.
Chapter Six: Ethics and Decision-Making in Organizational Communication
This chapter explores how communication affects ethical choices and organizational decision-making. It introduces ethical frameworks and common decision-making pitfalls.
Chapter Seven: Public Speaking
Whether you’re presenting to a client or pitching an idea to leadership, public speaking is a skill you’ll need. This chapter walks you through the rhetorical foundation of speeches, organizing your message, using visuals, and refining your delivery.
Chapter Eight: Writing Professional Messages
Professional writing matters. You’ll learn the best practices for emails, memos, and other business correspondence so that your messages come across clearly and respectfully.
Chapter Nine: Working in Groups and Teams
Teamwork makes the workplace run. You’ll learn about group development, navigating conflict, leading effectively, and collaborating to solve problems.
Chapter Ten: Leadership
Great leaders are great communicators. This chapter explores leadership theories, how to manage rather than lead, and how to grow one’s own leadership style over time.
Chapter Eleven: Applying for a Job
Finally, we focus on getting you hired—and helping you thrive. You’ll learn how to build a strong application, ace your interview, and understand what to expect as you’re onboarded into a new organization through socialization.
