Business Essentials for Strategic Communicators: Creating Shared Value for the Organization and its Stakeholders

Culp and Ragas clearly point out: Times have changed and the roles of and expectations for professional communicators has grown accordingly. In my college days of the 80s, the only "business" course I took was aptly named, "Business For Non-Business Students." At the time I was grateful... A few decades later, an abrupt pivot into working with startups and investors, coupled with a healthy mix of panic and ignorance sent me scrambling for a B101/2 resource. Thankfully, I found one here. Straightforward, well-researched and written like your dad trying to offer you genuinely helpful advice, "Business Essentials" should be, in my professional opinion, on the quick-reference shelf of every professional communicator, young or old. Whether you work with investors, a corporation, non-profit, brands or an agency, there is something here for you. If I return to teaching, this will be required reading for my students as an entire semester's curriculum lay within. Disclaimer: I worked with Ron Culp previously, and he has graciously served as one of my professional mentors for the past decade. Nevertheless, I was prepared to be a brutally honest critic - as my expectations of this book were astronomical. I am pleased to say those high expectations were met.

This text centers its context around corporate communications professionals, but the business fundamentals explained within are good for any corporate professional without a business education. Surprisingly well-written and engaging for an academic text, the authors break down all the fundamentals one might need to know working in a business environment. They explain the concepts in terms almost anyone can understand, and point the reader to appropriate resources for further learning. Well worth the purchase - I am a technology professional and read this on my own time, outside of work and academic pursuits, and ultimately recommended it to several peers.

Easy to understand.

This book is a must for anyone who is a communicator within their organization. As someone who "wandered" into my field and didn't have the background in communications, the glossary is a fantastic reference tool. I'm a true believer that you must always continue your education, be it formal or self taught. I purchased this book for a few of my colleagues knowing they will use it as I did. Should be in everyone's library.

I had to buy this book for a Critical Business skills course I took while pursing an MS in PR and Corporate Communications. I found that it was very practical and a good tool I could refer to later if I had any relevant questions. It was a smooth read, filled with applicable content. I really enjoyed it!

It said it was used but in good condition. When the book arrived it was sticky and dirty. I had to wipe the book down multiple times before it wiped clean. I would have returned the book but I need it for my class and cant afford to be without it while I wait for a new one.

Terrific primer for students and working professionals. I love the hands-on guides like balance sheets and income statements. Matthew Ragas and Ron Culp have delivered a product young people need to enter the workplace as respected, qualified job candidates. "Business Essentials" will help young professionals lead organizations now...not years down the road. And that's what we need.

Anyone who aspires to a career in public relations must read Business Essentials for Strategic Communicators. Culp and Ragas detail and thoroughly explain everything a practitioner needs to know to succeed in the business, whether with a public relations firm or a corporation. It's all here, in easy-to-follow narrative. -- John LaSage, Senior Consultant, Burson-Marsteller