Thinking about studying soon? Whether it’s your first degree or further study – it’s a big decision. Did you know that there’s a heap of subjects that you can study with Charles Sturt University without having to sign up for an entire degree? And these subjects focus on some of the key skills that are relevant to any career – so even if you don’t go on to a degree, single subject study can seriously boost your career prospects. One of these subjects we offer is Organisational Communication.

Insight sat down with Roslyn Cox, communication lecturer at Charles Sturt University, to get the lowdown. Since joining Charles Sturt University in 2011, Roslyn has taught public relations strategy and tactics, communication management, events management, internship placement and introductory communication subjects – including, of course, organisational communication.

So, what is organisational communication exactly?

“Organisational communication is a specialty field under the umbrella of public relations practice – it refers to professional communication within an organisational context. It is also sometimes referred to as ‘internal communication’.

“Essentially, it refers to communication that occurs with internal stakeholders – meaning employees, contracted staffers and the teams, groups and divisions that make up organisations.”

And why is it important?

“Well, we know that communication is a massive part of our day-to-day lives. And that’s true when it comes to business and organisations too.”

Roslyn breaks it down for us even further in a business context.

“It’s important to understand that organisational communication has a very practical focus. It concerns aspects and initiatives that influence the way people perceive an organisation, the way people behave within an organisation and how communication works to organise groups of people.

“Organisational communication is a critical element of being a good manager or a good CEO. It’s also critical to developing positive corporate culture and leadership, and in setting clear strategic direction for an organisation to achieve objectives.

“Organisations that put energy, time and resources into communicating with their employees, and sharing a clear strategic vision, are more like to recruit and retain talented staff, motivate and empower their existing staff, and achieve greater success.”

Soft skills are the way of the future

More and more, we’re hearing that employers are looking for soft skills, as well as technical professional skills.

But what are soft skills?

Soft skills are skills that are more aligned with your general disposition and personality. They are less specialised, less rooted in specific vocations. Soft skills are things like active listening, a positive attitude, resilience and the ability to give and receive feedback.

Notice a theme here? All those skills are related to communication.

Not sure whether your soft skills are up to scratch?

Things like single subject study, leadership programs and other university programs are a good way to boost your skill set.

If there’s one thing Roslyn is certain about, it’s the fact that you’re going to need strong communication skills to survive (and thrive) in the workforce.

“During your career you’ll also need to work with (and deal with) a huge range of people and personalities. You’ll encounter people who are amazing; who share your ideas, vision, ethics and ambitions. But you’ll also encounter people with whom you have nothing in common; people you find negative, unpleasant, self-centred or arrogant.

“Learning how to deal with all types of people, building your own sensitivity and judgement, recognising positive and negative attributes in others, and finding ways to work with them regardless of what links you or divides you, is an incredibly important skill.”

Want to learn more about single subject study?

All you need to do is jump online and take a look around! You’ll find everything you need to know about the subjects on offer, how to apply and the cost. Or you could head straight for our Organisational Communication subject!

Can’t find what you’re looking for? We’re always here to help. Just reach out to our friendly student adviser team and they’ll get you sorted.