Business Communication Center designed to help students with writing, presentation skills
Undergraduate business students looking to improve their communication skills can do so without having to leave Capitol Federal Hall.
The school’s newly created Business Communication Center (BCC) opened in fall 2016 and aims to help undergraduate students become clear, concise and thoughtful writers and speakers.
“It doesn’t matter what your major is or the type of career you plan on pursuing,” said Laura Barrett, director of the Business Communication Center. “Effective communication skills are necessary in every workplace.”
The plan for the center came after the school reformed its curriculum in an effort to produce graduates who can clearly articulate ideas in the workplace. All undergraduates are now required to take BUS 305: Business Writing and COMS 322: Audience Centered Public Speaking in the Workplace, which is taught by KU’s communication studies department.
To provide academic support for these curriculum updates, the need for a dedicated space in Capitol Federal Hall became apparent, said Bill Beedles, director of undergraduate programs at the School of Business.
“Effective writing and speaking are skills that can be improved through attempts, expert coaching, revision and second tries — and third, fourth and so forth,” Beedles said.
Barrett said that the center will offer a comprehensive look at their assignments, instead of just proofreading or copy editing help.
“Visiting the center is just the first step in revising your work,” she said. “The coaches won’t make changes for you. Instead, they provide the feedback necessary to help you improve.”
There are two types of coaches at the center:
Writing Coaches
These business writing experts can review students’ writing and help them to improve it. Any student can use it — just set up an appointment and bring a draft. (Students who do not have a draft are still welcome to set up an appointment. Coaches will help students at any stage of the writing process.)
Presentation Coaches
During appointments with presentation coaches, the student’s presentation is recorded. After, the student and the coach review it and discuss ways to improve and polish it. This is an excellent chance to practice in front of a live audience. Make sure to bring presentation notes and any necessary visual aids to the appointment.
What students should know about the BCC:
- Only assignments from business classes can be reviewed at the BCC. For help with non-business assignments, the BCC recommends the KU Writing Center.
- Appointments can be made online. Students are limited to one appointment per day and should make sure to cancel appointments if conflicts come up. Missing two appointments without canceling may cause a student to be blocked from using the service.
- The BCC can be used for group projects. Just make sure all members of the team attend the appointment.
- Coaches are there to offer advice, but they are not there to just “fix” anything or do the assignments themselves. Students need to be fully prepared for appointments and ready to be engaged.
Barrett said the center will benefit students both during their time at KU and post-graduation.
“The center was created to help prepare students with the communication skills necessary to succeed in the business school and in their future careers,” she said.
By Casey Gamble
