Business writing skills and effective workplace performance

Using a triangulation methodology (survey questionnaires, one-on-one interviews, and analysis of writing samples), this study investigated problems and solutions associated with business writing and the relationship between the business and the academic community in ensuring that employees write effectively. This study attempted to ascertain the extent to which college professors are teaching students to write effectively and the extent to which they are teaching them the skills that meet the needs of the business world.; The sample population consisted of (a) college professors of business communication/business writing in a cross section of three regions of New York state and (b) employees in business organizations from a cross section of industries in three counties in New York state.; The results of the study data suggest that college professors may hold different perceptions than employees about certain skills considered important for effective business writing and job performance. There also may be differing interpretations about the proper use of particular writing skills. Nonetheless, there appears to be more agreement between professors and employees than disagreement with respect to writing skills.