If you inquire with nearly any professional about the most critical hard skills, communication consistently ranks at the top.
The capacity to converse about strategy, objectives, and resolutions with others is vital for any business; effective communication can either make or break companies, regardless of their size. Inadequate communication leads to significant losses annually.
ADVERTISEMENT
STEM-certified. Tar Heel ROI. No concessions.
The top-ranked online MBA program at UNC Kenan-Flagler is a preferred option for seasoned professionals with a strong academic background. You have the flexibility to complete your degree at your own pace—within 18 to 36 months—without compromising on academic excellence and rigor. Gain lifelong career advantages and become part of a global network of over 42,000 alumni by earning an AACSB-accredited online MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill. GMAT waivers are available. Discover more today.
UNC Kenan-Flagler’s top-ranked online MBA program is highly favored by experienced professionals with a solid undergraduate performance. You have the flexibility to complete your degree at your own pace—within 18 to 36 months—without compromising on academic excellence and rigor. Gain lifelong career advantages and become part of a global network of over 42,000 alumni by earning an AACSB-accredited online MBA from UNC-Chapel Hill. GMAT waivers are available. Discover more today.
Hence, communication skills continue to be greatly valued. Digital communication skills rank as the second most sought-after technical skill, and communication in a broader sense—encompassing written, verbal, and presentation skills—remains among the top soft skills desired by companies, according to [source].
Given the evolving workplace landscape, with increased remote work and AI integration compared to just five years ago, the most effective communication methods are also evolving.
“Skills today can become outdated within three to five years, necessitating frequent upskilling,” says Angie Kamath, dean of the [institution].
Evolving Communication Strategies
One proactive approach is to explore business communication courses. While these courses previously emphasized writing professional emails, compiling research reports, and delivering effective presentations, the focus has now shifted towards data analytics, customer communication, social impact, and social media, as highlighted by Kamath.
Social media, in particular, has opened up new avenues for businesses to promote their products. Research indicates that 3 out of 10 adult social media users have made a purchase after seeing a product on social media, with a higher likelihood if it is endorsed by a content creator they follow.
Given the broad and profound impact of this shift, integrated marketing has emerged as the most popular master’s program offered by NYU’s professional studies school. For individuals deeply involved in marketing and communications, pursuing a graduate program could present a valuable opportunity.
For others, obtaining a certification or enrolling in a single communication course could be an effective way to learn the latest practices, especially in light of advancing technology.
“We aim to guide individuals on leveraging technology—whether it’s the latest trend or a lasting one like AI—to enhance their communication efforts,” Kamath shares with Fortune.
Simultaneously, there have been shifts in human dynamics within the workforce, encompassing aspects such as gender, diversity, aging, hybrid work models, and Gen Z. Therefore, breaking out of your algorithm is crucial for embracing new concepts and engaging in meaningful discussions, notes Kamath.
“Whether in our professional or personal lives, platforms like social media tend to draw us in,” she adds. “We tend to reside in our echo chambers as algorithms dictate our content consumption.”
Her recommendation is to select a program that aligns with your interests and learning objectives across three main skill categories: human, business-enabling, and technical. A course may cover all three areas comprehensively or focus intensively on a specific subject.
The positive aspect is the availability of programs with varying lengths, costs, prerequisites, and focuses. While certifications are an option, you can also opt to enroll in individual courses. Ultimately, the key is to choose a program that aligns best with your contemporary career objectives and personal circumstances.
Fortune has outlined several options available in the market for upskilling in the realm of business communication.
Requirements: 2 courses for certification
Cost: \(145 per course; \)250 for the package
Format: Online
Timeline: 10–20 hours to complete the entire package
Course examples: Effective Business Writing; Effective Presentations; Communicating Collaboratively
Cost: $3,900
Format: Online
Timeline: 3 months
Course examples: Cross-Cultural Communication; Persuasive Writing; Impactful Unscripted Communication
Requirements: Complete 3 business communication courses for certification
Cost: \(9,660 (\)3,220/course)
Format: Online or in-person
Timeline: Within three years
Course examples: Information Technology Finance and Communications; Grant Proposal Writing; Negotiation and Organizational Conflict Resolution
Requirements: Complete 3 18-hour courses for certification
Cost: \(11,400 (\)3,800/course)
Format: Online or in-person
Timeline: Self-paced
Course examples: Interpersonal Communication & Conflict Management; Written and Visual Communication; Public Speaking for Professionals
Requirements: 3 core courses + 3 electives for certification
Cost: ~\(5,400 (\)799–$999/course)
Format: Online; with instructor-led or self-paced options
Timeline: Within three years
Course examples: Digital Communication in a Changing Workplace; Persuading in Business: Leadership, Public Speaking, and Executive Communication; Strategic Communications and Corporate Storytelling
Requirements: Complete 7 courses (5 required + 2 electives) for certification
Cost: ~$6,700 (inclusive of fee, tuition, program materials)
Format: Online or in-person
Timeline: Self-paced
Course examples: The Dynamics of Interpersonal Communication; Crisis Management and Communications: Safeguarding Image and Viability; Best Practices in Social Media for the Communications Professional
Requirements: 4-course series
Cost: $49/month
Format: Online
Timeline: 2 months (10 hours/week)
Course examples: Business Writing; Graphic Design; Successful Presentation
In addition to these examples, platforms like [additional platforms], Coursera, and others offer a diverse range of courses in the field of business communication.