ABSTRACT
This book will argue that management communication is the central skill in the global workplace of the twenty-first century. An understanding of language and its inherent powers, combined with the skill to speak, write, listen, and form interpersonal relationships, will determine whether you will succeed as a manager.
This chapter will first look at the nature of managerial work, examining the roles managers play and the characteristics of the jobs they hold. We’ll also look at what varies in a manager’s position and what is different from one manager’s job to another. Additionally, we’ll look at the management skills you will need to succeed in the years ahead. At the heart of this chapter, though, is the notion that communication, in many ways, is the work of managers, day in and day out. We go on to examine the roles of writing and speaking in your life as a manager, as well as other specific applications and challenges you will face as you grow and advance on the job.
