Your Most Impactful Class

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“When people ask me, ‘What was the most impactful class you took during your MBA?’ they are often surprised by my answer,” wrote Alex Galbraith, now a brand manager at Hershey. “To improve my business writing skills, I made the difficult decision to enroll in an undergraduate business communications class. I was the lone MBA among undergraduates, seemingly learning grammar for the first time, and lacking the crutch of the MBA grading curve. But that decision created lasting impacts that extend well beyond the classroom as I now apply those principles each day.”

Alex’s story is not about grammar drills or academic humility. It’s about transformation. Business communication is not just a set of skills—it’s the foundation for leadership, career acceleration, and lifelong influence.

Business communication is the currency of success. The ability to think clearly, write concisely, and speak persuasively is what transforms technical competence into leadership. This course is not a hoop. It’s a hinge—one that can open doors for the rest of your life.

• Why communication matters more than ever in the AI economy
• What employers and leaders expect from strong communicators
• How this course can enhance your career, leadership, and relationships
• What it means to be a top hire, an effective leader, and a relationship builder

1. Communication Is a Career Multiplier

Nina Legath, Head of Internal Global Communications at Adidas, explains that knowing information isn’t enough. Today’s business leaders must inspire, connect, and lead through communication. In a world where automation accelerates, human expression becomes more valuable.

2. You’ll Be More Employable

McKinsey's global study on the future of work in the AI economy identified communication and critical thinking as key cognitive capabilities for success. Likewise, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) ranks written and verbal communication among the top five skills employers seek.

Even in an AI-powered world, clear writing demonstrates clear thinking. Employers aren’t just skimming résumés—they’re assessing your communication skills through interviews, emails, reports, and team dynamics.

3. Communication Makes You a Leader

Zenger and Folkman, authors of The Extraordinary Leader, found that powerful communicators also score highly in other leadership competencies—even in unrelated areas like technical proficiency. Communication doesn’t just complement leadership—it unlocks it.

Dr. Susan Madsen of Utah State University reminds us: leadership can be developed. If you want to lead, start by learning to communicate well.

4. Communication Builds Relationships That Matter

From pitching ideas to resolving conflict, from mentoring a peer to managing a team, your ability to connect with others will shape your success and well-being. Communication is not just professional—it’s profoundly personal. The same skills that help you lead a project will help you strengthen a community, encourage a friend, or advocate for a cause.

As Noreena Hertz explains in The Lonely Century, meaningful human connection is becoming rare—and more valuable than ever.

• Analyze business problems and write clear, actionable recommendations
• Deliver oral presentations that inspire action and demonstrate credibility
• Collaborate professionally in teams using modern communication tools
• Use generative AI ethically and effectively to improve your work
• Develop a portfolio of communication artifacts that reflect your growth

Whether you’re an undergraduate preparing for your first job or a graduate student like Alex Galbraith aiming to sharpen your edge, this class is your invitation to master the skill that amplifies all others.