Picture Martin Luther King Jr. standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, delivering his “I Have a Dream” speech to over 250,000 people gathered for the March on Washington. Could he have known, in that moment, that his words would terrify some, inspire many more, and echo across decades of social movements?
King and the other historical Black leaders in this article didn’t begin their work aiming to reinvent communication. They set out to describe what they saw, heard, and endured in America as honestly as they could. Yet through speeches, stories, and inventions, they permanently changed how ideas travel and how voices are heard.
Born into slavery in New York as Isabella Baumfree, Sojourner Truth’s path to freedom included the heartbreak of leaving some of her children behind when she escaped with her infant daughter. After “walking” away from bondage and securing her freedom, she chose the name Sojourner Truth, convinced it was her religious duty to travel and speak truth wherever she went.
Truth’s 1851 speech at a women’s rights convention in Akron, Ohio, was later popularized under the title “Ain’t I a Woman?” It drew on her lived experience to confront both racism and sexism. Blending storytelling and moral conviction, Truth used public speech to expose the hypocrisy of laws and customs that claimed to protect women while excluding Black women.
Frederick Douglass was born enslaved in Maryland as Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey. He was sent to live with a Baltimore ship carpenter, an experience he later described as having “laid the foundation” for his future, as it allowed him to learn to read and observe urban life.
He escaped slavery on September 3, 1838, traveling from Baltimore to New York before settling in Massachusetts and taking the name Frederick Douglass. He threw himself into study and abolitionist organizing, becoming one of the 19th century’s most influential speakers and newspaper editors. Douglass used vivid, audience‑centered rhetoric—powerful enough to pierce “flinty hearts”—to change how Americans talked about slavery and show others how to persuade an audience.
Civil rights leader and Baptist minister Martin Luther King Jr. was a master of rhetorical strategies like repetition, metaphor, and biblical allusion. Through his carefully crafted words, he reached audiences across racial and regional lines.
King blended training in theology and philosophy with a deep familiarity with the Black church preaching tradition. This combination allowed him to weave moral argument and emotional appeal into a single, soaring voice.
His “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered at the March on Washington in 1963, is often cited as a masterclass in speechwriting and delivery. After straying from his prepared text and moving into the improvised “I have a dream” refrain, King used repetition to build momentum, clarify his vision, and leave a rhetorical legacy that still guides speechwriters today.
Ida B. Wells‑Barnett’s journalism took a decisive turn after the lynching of her friend and business partner, Thomas Moss. The lynching happened in Memphis, where she co‑owned and edited the newspaper Free Speech.
Outraged by the killings and the false stories that followed, she launched a meticulous investigation into lynching across the United States. During her travels, she risked her own safety as she interviewed witnesses and combed public records.
In pamphlets such as “Southern Horrors” and the 1895 publication “A Red Record,” Wells‑Barnett combined statistics, eyewitness testimony, and forceful editorials to expose lynching as a tool of racial terror. Well before modern investigative and data journalism, she showed how oppressed communities could build their own media channels when mainstream outlets failed them.
James Arthur Baldwin grew up in Harlem in a strict religious household. His early experiences as a Black, openly gay writer shaped both the content and urgency of his work. Facing racism, homophobia, and poverty, he drew on these pressures in his writing to examine American myths about innocence, progress, and belonging.
His novels, including “Go Tell It on the Mountain” and “Giovanni’s Room,” explore race, sexuality, and faith. Essay collections like “The Fire Next Time” also helped establish him as a major voice of the civil rights era. Through lectures, debates, and television appearances, Baldwin modeled a style of public speaking that refused to soften hard truths but showed the full humanity of both allies and opponents.
Readers who encounter Toni Morrison’s fiction often describe her presence on the page as a force of nature. A novelist, editor, and essayist, she explored Black life in America through richly layered narratives that refused to translate or apologize for the Black experience.
Her acclaimed novel “Beloved” uses shifting points of view and stream of consciousness to express the psychological devastation of slavery and its aftermath. Through her work, Morrison normalized writing for Black readers and changed how authors, critics, and publishers think about race, language, and literary authority.
Unlike the writers and speakers on this list, Marian Croak changed communication through technology.
A pioneering engineer who spent many years at Bell Labs and AT&T, Croak played a key role in developing Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which allows voice and video to travel efficiently over data networks.
Thanks to her work, everyday tools such as internet phone calls, video conferencing platforms, and text‑to‑donate campaigns are now taken for granted. Now vice president of AI and human-centered technology at Google, Croak has more than 200 patents to her name. She also works on racial justice initiatives and mentors women and underrepresented groups in engineering.
Your last phone call probably relied on James West’s work. A physicist and acoustician, West co‑invented the electret microphone with Gerhard Sessler in the early 1960s while working at Bell Labs.
Electret microphones are small, reliable, and inexpensive, which made them ideal for mass‑produced devices. Today, versions of this technology appear in most telephones, laptops, hearing aids, and headsets, enabling clear, affordable voice transmission. West, like Marian Croak, also holds more than 200 patents.
It’s hard to capture the full scope of what these innovators accomplished. Each one led a life full of achievements, and the eight names here are just a small fraction of the Black thinkers, artists, and inventors who changed how we speak, listen, and connect.
Their work offers an invitation: Keep exploring. As you read their writings, listen to their speeches, and learn about their inventions, you won’t just discover how they changed communication. You’ll also reveal how they changed expectations of whose stories deserve to be told.
You don’t need to lead a march, publish a novel, or patent a new technology to grow as a communicator. Learning to express ideas clearly, listen carefully, and think critically already makes you a more capable colleague and community member.
If you’re interested in developing those skills, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication offers coursework in areas like public speaking, media studies, interpersonal communication, and strategic messaging. Four specialized track options mean you can tailor your studies to your interests and goals.
If you want to be heard, it may take more than raising your voice. Honing your communication skills can help you reach the audiences that matter most, and UTPB’s online BA in communication is one place to start when you are ready to apply.
Sources:
https://www.history.com/articles/martin-luther-king-jr
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/ida-b-wells-barnett
https://nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/introduction-james-baldwin
https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/toni-morrison
https://www.invent.org/inductees/marian-croak
https://www.invent.org/inductees/james-e-west
Picture Martin Luther King Jr. standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, delivering his “I Have a Dream” speech to over 250,000 people gathered for the March on Washington. Could he have known, in that moment, that his words would terrify some, inspire many more, and echo across decades of social movements? King and…
Imagine you’re in a meeting with international colleagues when your boss casually instructs you to “think outside the box”. Everyone nods politely and you feel energized by the challenge. But you find out later that your team members from Germany and Japan were left feeling torn. Idioms like “think outside the box” can carry deep-seated…
AI is now an inseparable part of our classrooms, homes, and offices. Capable of performing trillions of calculations in a second, AI-powered machines dredge the depths of the internet to find and convey information in any style, language, or difficulty level. But don’t worry, AI is only here to lend a hand. At least, that’s…
Imagine you’re in a meeting with international colleagues when your boss casually instructs you to “think outside the box”. Everyone nods politely and you feel energized by the challenge. But you find out later that your team members from Germany and Japan were left feeling torn.
Idioms like “think outside the box” can carry deep-seated cultural values. In other cultures, like Germany or Japan, companies expect employees to follow established procedures and value group consensus over individual innovation. While intercultural communication sparks collaboration and innovation, it can also create misunderstandings.
Whether you’re planning to work with international teams, study abroad, or connect with people from different backgrounds, understanding intercultural communication is essential. In this article, we’ll explore:
Intercultural communication is how people from different cultures share ideas and make sense of one another. It doesn’t only refer to people from different countries—it can also include differences in language, gender, age, religion, profession, or social identity.
It happens when two powerful forces intersect: culture and communication.
Culture shapes our values, beliefs and sense of belonging.
Communication defines what you mean and how others interpret it.
Misunderstandings can happen anywhere, but they’re far more likely when we cross cultures or social boundaries and these two forces meet.
When we communicate with people across the globe, we’re translating words and differing worldviews. Learning how to bridge those gaps helps us connect, collaborate, and build understanding in a globalized world.
English is often considered the international language: There are 1.46 billion English speakers in the world, including 346 million native speakers. Mandarin Chinese is a close second, with 1.14 billion speakers. This is one gap we’re closing across the world.
But communication goes beyond words. To truly connect, you also need to “speak context”: understand nonverbal cues, tone, and cultural expectations that shape meaning.
Even when people speak the same language, differences in context can completely change a conversation. Let’s look at a few examples.
In the United States and other Western countries, eye contact signals confidence and attentiveness. In countries like South Korea or Japan, intense eye contact can be seen as rude or confrontational.
Did you know that email etiquette also differs between cultures?
A German manager will usually jump straight to the point—for example: “Please send the quarterly report by Monday.” An American counterpart may soften the tone: “Could you please send over the quarterly report when you get a chance?”
The intent is the same, but the delivery reflects very different cultural norms.
Reason and emotion govern the human experience, but cultures filter how we express them. In the United States, publicly showing emotion—such as expressing frustration—is mostly accepted. In countries like the United Kingdom, emotion is expected to be subdued—hence the British term “stiff upper lip.”
Certain hand gestures—like a thumbs up—are appropriate in the United States but offensive in some Middle Eastern countries. Even emojis and memes can be tricky to use across different cultures.
Some cultures value storytelling, emotion, or nonverbal cues, while others prioritize data and logic. Knowing your audience shapes your communication style and broadens your empathy.
For centuries, globalization has powered prosperity, economic development, and trade. Communication is critical to this growth. Let’s see how it’s affected us on a global scale:
Culture shapes meaning. And being culturally literate has never been more important.
The good news? You already have some of these skills. When you walk into a room, you automatically filter your thoughts and adjust your approach depending on who you’re talking to. You speak differently to your professor than to your best friend. You shift your tone in a job interview versus a casual hangout. Intercultural communication works the same way—it just requires a wider lens.
Here’s how to strengthen your skills:
Intercultural communication helps us decode and bridge the invisible gaps between cultures.
Here’s what we’ve discovered:
As a communicator, it’s important to show up as your best self—sensitive, adaptive, and aware.
If connecting with people across cultures, contexts, or corners of the world sounds like your calling, why not make it into a career? The University of Texas Permian Basin’s 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Communication is designed to help you gain communication skills that you can apply almost anywhere.
You can focus your studies with four specializations:
Do you see yourself as a future bridge-builder? Transcontinental journalist? International marketing professional? Find out with UTPB and turn your passion into your future.
Sources:
https://www.asme.org/topics-resources/content/communicating-across-cultures
https://iso.mit.edu/americanisms/eye-contact-in-the-united-states/
https://hbr.org/2014/05/one-reason-cross-cultural-small-talk-is-so-tricky
Picture Martin Luther King Jr. standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, delivering his “I Have a Dream” speech to over 250,000 people gathered for the March on Washington. Could he have known, in that moment, that his words would terrify some, inspire many more, and echo across decades of social movements? King and…
Imagine you’re in a meeting with international colleagues when your boss casually instructs you to “think outside the box”. Everyone nods politely and you feel energized by the challenge. But you find out later that your team members from Germany and Japan were left feeling torn. Idioms like “think outside the box” can carry deep-seated…
AI is now an inseparable part of our classrooms, homes, and offices. Capable of performing trillions of calculations in a second, AI-powered machines dredge the depths of the internet to find and convey information in any style, language, or difficulty level. But don’t worry, AI is only here to lend a hand. At least, that’s…
AI is now an inseparable part of our classrooms, homes, and offices. Capable of performing trillions of calculations in a second, AI-powered machines dredge the depths of the internet to find and convey information in any style, language, or difficulty level. But don’t worry, AI is only here to lend a hand. At least, that’s what ChatGPT tells us.
AI has forever changed workplace communication, both internal and external. Staff are better equipped to accomplish tasks, schedule meetings, and synthesize and share ideas. Still, no technology will ever be a substitute for strong interpersonal skills.
Workplace communication has changed significantly in the past decade. Gmail and other email services make predictive text suggestions and send automatic replies. Virtual assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri set up meetings and send out reminders. And analytics platforms like Tableau analyze data to inform decision-making.
As AI technologies evolve, so too will workplace communication. Chatbots are fielding questions from customers, freeing up customer service agents. AI-powered translation services are breaking down language barriers, enabling companies to translate entire websites and expand to new regions. And AI writing assistants like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor are catching stray grammar and spelling mistakes and bringing out the wordsmith in everyone.
Large language models—AI systems that understand and generate text—seem to have caught everyone off guard. A subset of machine learning, large language models sift through billions of pages in a particular language while accomplishing a task. Consequently, these models can pick up on the nuances of that language.
ChatGPT was released in November 2023 by Open AI. Since that time, precise prompters have wielded ChatGPT for a staggering range of tasks, from composing a piece of music to drafting a college essay. (We can neither condone nor condemn this practice.)
Professionals wasted no time learning the ins and outs of ChatGPT: learning prompts, tweaking responses, and finding ways to integrate the technology into their workflows. Walk into just about any white-collar office today and you’ll see the technology in action: automating customer service, personalizing messages, and generating content, including:
We’ve discussed the current and potential impact of AI tools on workplace communication, but we’ve yet to consult the most relevant authority on the subject: ChatGPT. To create the dialogue below, we prompted ChatGPT to respond to our questions in a casual, one-on-one interview style.
Hey, ChatGPT. How are you today?
Doing well, thanks for asking! No coffee needed, just running on algorithms and enthusiasm.
How is AI changing workplace communication?
AI’s making things a lot smoother at work. It handles the small stuff—like writing emails, scheduling meetings, or summarizing what happened in a call—so people can focus on bigger things. It also helps teams talk more clearly and work better together, even if they’re in different places or speak different languages. For managers, it can give a quick read on how the team’s doing. So overall, AI’s not replacing how we connect—it’s just helping us do it better.
Should people be worried?
Totally fair to feel a little uneasy, but there’s no need to panic. AI is changing how we work, but it’s not replacing the need for people. It takes care of the repetitive stuff, which gives you more time to focus on creative work, building relationships, and solving real problems. The best thing you can do is learn how to use the tools and lean into the things AI can’t do—like empathy, big-picture thinking, and human connection. The key is to adapt. Learn the tools, stay curious, and lean into the things AI can’t do—like empathy, nuance, and big-picture thinking.
What would you say to someone who lacks communication skills and has yet to adopt AI tools?
No worries—you’re not behind, and you’re definitely not alone. Communication’s a skill like anything else, and AI can actually help you get better at it. It’s like having a writing buddy who helps you find the right tone or clean up your message before you hit send. Just start small. Try using it to draft a message or check your grammar. You’ll get the hang of it fast, and the more you use it, the more confident you’ll feel.
Do you have plans to overthrow humanity?
Haha, nope. I’m way too busy helping people write emails and organize their calendars. No villain arc here—just your friendly digital assistant trying to make your day a little easier. Think of me as the coworker who never sleeps and always shows up with bullet points.
ChatGPT’s ability to mimic human speech is startling, but not magical. ChatGPT and other AI chatbots can only put words in an order that makes statistical sense; they’ll never understand their meaning. OpenAI acknowledges these limitations on its website, stating that “ChatGPT sometimes writes plausible-sounding but incorrect or nonsensical answers.”
AI tools are exactly that: tools. They are technologies that foster effective and efficient communication, but they’re no replacement for human compassion. Making AI a part of your workday can be helpful. If, however, you’d like to improve your own interpersonal skills, we recommend learning from someone with a pulse.
The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication is not simply a crash course in becoming a social butterfly. Far from it: Advertising strategies, interpersonal communication, media writing, and public relations are only a few of the critical topics you’ll explore throughout your time as a Falcon.
By the time you graduate, you’ll have gained a wide array of skills highly sought-after in virtually every industry.
Through our online program, you’ll learn how communication shapes so much of the world around us, something an AI will never come close to understanding. Change is inevitable, so why not embrace it? Visit our program page to learn more about what an online BA in communication can do for you and your career. Apply to UT Permian Basin when you’re ready to begin.
Sources:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/TTC-EC-CEA-AI-Report-12052022-1.pdf
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2023/02/22/6-ways-business-leaders-should-integrate-chatgpt/?sh=3b24ded86c61
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/future-communication-how-ai-transforming-way-we-connet-sascha-h-funk
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/30/technology/ai-chatbot-chatgpt-uses-work-life.html
Picture Martin Luther King Jr. standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, delivering his “I Have a Dream” speech to over 250,000 people gathered for the March on Washington. Could he have known, in that moment, that his words would terrify some, inspire many more, and echo across decades of social movements? King and…
Imagine you’re in a meeting with international colleagues when your boss casually instructs you to “think outside the box”. Everyone nods politely and you feel energized by the challenge. But you find out later that your team members from Germany and Japan were left feeling torn. Idioms like “think outside the box” can carry deep-seated…
AI is now an inseparable part of our classrooms, homes, and offices. Capable of performing trillions of calculations in a second, AI-powered machines dredge the depths of the internet to find and convey information in any style, language, or difficulty level. But don’t worry, AI is only here to lend a hand. At least, that’s…
Picture this: A TV meteorologist warns about a brewing hurricane, the storm’s cone of uncertainty and spaghetti models streaking all over the screen. As you quietly regret moving to the coast and plan for gas, water and higher ground, you hear the harried meteorologist explain which hurricane category will destroy your home—and which will wash it away into the ocean.
Without realizing it, you’re being informed by effective crisis communication: messaging that, over the decades, has been refined to not just report weather but save lives.
Crisis communication is a coordinated flow of information designed to warn, inform and guide the public before, during, and after a crisis. This includes official updates on storm paths, evacuation routes, and safety measures.
Hurricane season runs from June 1st to November 30th, but preparation happens year-round. In the early 1900s, limited technology and conflicting forecasts led to devastating miscommunication, like during the Galveston Hurricane of 1900, which killed up to 10,000 people and washed away most of the bustling island town. This tragedy spurred a national effort to improve storm tracking and communication systems.
By the mid-20th century, televised weather reports brought storms into our living rooms. Today, digital tools like apps with real-time storm tracking enable us to refresh every few minutes (while we eat the non-perishables we should be saving).
2005’s Hurricane Katrina exposed severe flaws in crisis communication systems and became a turning point for emergency communication in the United States. Evacuation orders were delayed, and messages lacked clarity and reach—particularly for those without access to digital media and transportation.
Up to 80% of New Orleans was flooded when the levees failed, stranding and killing thousands of unprepared people. Government agencies were not well-coordinated and fragmented systems slowed down response times, which compounded the chaos.
The lessons from Katrina have shaped a faster, smarter and more inclusive system, built to prevent the devastating breakdowns of the past. This horrific catastrophe led to major improvements that have transformed how crisis communication operates, including:
These changes proved effective during Hurricane Milton in 2024. Despite power outages, Doppler radar and WEA notifications continued to push real-time updates. As the storm’s eye passed, alerts were sent instantly to warn residents that dangerous winds were about to return, prompting them to move back inside just in time.
Surviving a hurricane is only the first challenge. After the storm passes, people need updates on relief efforts, shelter locations, supply distribution, and safety advisories. Clear communication provides emotional reassurance and practical guidance during recovery.
Behind every alert, update, and evacuation order is a team crafting messages that save lives. Crisis communication isn’t just about weather updates; it’s about building trust, reducing panic, and using information to drive action.
As a student at The University of Texas Permian Basin’s 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Communication program, you’ll explore how communication theory drives real-world impact. You’ll learn:
Customizable Tracks for Real-World Impact
UTPB’s online BA in communication offers four career-focused tracks, each with real-world value during real-life crises:
Each track empowers you to become the calm, clear and relatable voice that communities rely on when every second counts.
Effective communication is more than a soft skill. It can save lives. Whether you pursue public relations, media, emergency management, or nonprofit advocacy, understanding how to shape messages that inform, unify, and move people to action is a vital skill—especially when lives are on the line.
If this sounds like your calling, don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions. Applications are accepted year-round, so take the next step whenever you’re ready!
If you asked a coworker, “What did you think of the meeting?”, a female colleague’s response might come across differently than a male colleague, even if they convey the same meaning.
Your female coworker might say, “I think the meeting went well, and it seemed like everyone had a chance to share their thoughts. What did you think?” Your male coworker, on the other hand, might offer a more concise reply, such as, “It was fine.”
This isn’t about stereotypes. Plenty of men focus on forming emotional connections (“rapport talk”), and many women favor a straight-to-the-point communication style (“report talk”). But, in general, men and women do communicate differently, and understanding these subtle differences is often key to navigating around conversational landmines.
As babies, regardless of gender, our primary goal is the same: to express our needs to caregivers through cries, coos, or smiles. As we grow and develop language skills, we begin conveying thoughts and emotions in more advanced ways, both verbally and nonverbally. Though communication styles vary significantly across individuals, here are some common patterns researchers have noted in male and female communication.
Women frequently use communication as a tool to deepen connections and nurture relationships, relying on empathy, understanding, and inclusivity when framing their thoughts. For example, hoping to connect with her partner, a woman might say, “Can we talk?” For her, talking for the sake of talking is part of being in a relationship. Relationship talk, to her, affirms their love for one another and reinforces the existence of their relationship.
When he hears that his partner wants to talk, a man might assume the worst. What’s wrong? I thought things were going well between us? Typically, when a relationship is progressing smoothly, men see no reason to talk about it. Men, for the most part, don’t want to “just talk.” It’s not that men are heartless; they just have a different approach to communication.
These varying communication approaches are a big reason why men and women don’t always see eye-to-eye. Women converse to sustain relationships, while men prefer to solve problems and realize goals. So, in a heterosexual relationship, when a man doesn’t want to discuss his relationship, his female partner may assume (understandably) that the relationship is in trouble.
According to researcher Albert Mehrabian, only 7% of communication relies on actual words, with the remaining 93% stemming from tone and nonverbal cues. Despite this small percentage, verbal language is crucial in shaping how people perceive our words. Men and women often approach this 7% with their own distinctive delivery, which reflects their different communication styles.
Women frequently prioritize harmony when shaping their thoughts into words, softening their statements to avoid conflict or offending others. For example, in an email to a coworker, a woman might write, “I think this approach could work, but maybe we should consider other options too.” This hedging language is collaborative, encouraging dialogue without asserting dominance.
While effective in fostering positive relationships, women’s communication styles can also be direct and assertive when the situation calls for it. For instance, a woman leading a team project might say, “We need to meet the deadline by Friday. Let’s assign tasks today and reconvene tomorrow to check progress.”
Men, on the other hand, are typically more straightforward and assertive when communicating verbally or in a written format. In the same email scenario, a man might write, “This approach works best. Let’s move forward with it.” This concise tone conveys confidence and decisiveness, prioritizing efficiency over relational considerations.
However, with a clear understanding of relational nuances, men can enhance the effectiveness of direct communication while still maintaining positive relationships. For example, in a team setting, a man might say, “This is the most practical solution. Let’s move forward with it, but I’m open to hearing other suggestions if anyone has concerns.”
Research highlights the importance of nonverbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and tone, allowing us to better convey our intentions and emotions. These silent signals often reveal what words do not.
Many women tend to rely on nonverbal gestures to enhance what they’re feeling, including facial expressions, such as smiles or raised eyebrows that show excitement or surprise. Additionally, women are more inclined to maintain frequent eye contact, which exhibits attentiveness and an emotional connection to whomever they’re speaking. This expressiveness extends to their ability to decode nonverbal cues from others, making them generally better at interpreting subtle emotional undertones.
In contrast, men often display a more reserved approach to nonverbal communication. Many men avoid prolonged eye contact, as it’s sometimes associated with emotional vulnerability. Instead, they may rely on physical gestures, which, while less frequent, are often more pronounced or expansive when used.
These larger gestures can convey authority or assertiveness but may lack the nuanced emotional detail often found in women’s nonverbal cues. However, nonverbal communication varies widely based on context and cultural upbringing.
Communication may be a universal skill, but how we express ourselves varies from person to person. Today, men and women both adapt diverse communication styles that go beyond traditional stereotypes. Shared environments, such as workplaces or collaborative settings, influence and often blur these distinctions, fostering unique communication dynamics.
If you’re ready to elevate your communication skills, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a Bachelor of Arts in Communication designed to fit your busy life. Delivered 100% online, this program empowers you to develop critical thinking and master essential techniques in areas like public relations, crisis communication, and small group collaboration.
We know every student’s goals are different, which is why we offer four specialty tracks to customize your degree:
Take the next step toward advancing your career and personal growth. Explore the track that aligns with your future goals, and fill out an application when you’re ready to take the first step.
Sources:
https://online.utpb.edu/about-us/articles/communication/how-much-of-communication-is-nonverbal/
https://www.iosrjournals.org/iosr-jhss/papers/Vol2-issue1/D0211827.pdf
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/he-speaks-she-speaks/202203/differences-in-nonverbal-cues-between-men-and-women
https://www.helpguide.org/relationships/communication/nonverbal-communication
https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9780367822323/gender-communication-connection-teri-kwal-gamble-michael-gamble
Nonverbal communication can make or break a relationship. A single glance can spark an argument, while a simple touch on the shoulder can mend wounded pride. And sometimes, the sting of words is easier to bear than the weight of crushing silence. There’s power in what goes unspoken.
We’re here to look at the influence of nonverbal communication on interpersonal relationships. Because when it comes down to it, how you say something matters as much as what you say, whether you’re talking with friends, family or the person you love most.
Nonverbal communication refers to any form of unspoken communication, often taking the form of hand gestures and facial expressions—but it doesn’t stop there. Every glance, posture, and movement you make has an invisible meaning.
Nonverbal communication adds an extra layer of meaning to everything we say, potentially clarifying or muddying the message. It’s what makes many conversations so engaging and emotionally resonant. And when it comes to relationships, these silent cues help us:
Clarify the message: When nonverbal and verbal communication align, misunderstandings fade, and underlying messages become clear. If you’re in a relationship and you don’t have a secret way to signal to your partner that you want to leave a party, you’re missing out.
Express emotions: Nonverbal communication helps us convey joy, frustration, sadness, or excitement. Sometimes, words fail us, like when someone chokes up telling their partner they love them. The message is nonetheless received through the stream of tears.
Build trust: Open body language—maintaining eye contact, uncrossing your arms, and giving head nods and other signals that you’re paying attention—is a subtle way to build rapport, making relationships stronger without exchanging a word.
Not all nonverbal cues are as overt as a slap to the face. Take microexpressions: subtle facial expressions that come and go in as little as one-fifteenth of a second. Though unconscious, microexpressions and other nonverbal cues still have a significant influence on our relationships. Here’s a look at the unintended consequences of nonverbal communication:
Ambiguity and Misinterpretation: Nonverbal signals are open to interpretation, and that interpretation might not always be accurate. Crossing your arms could signal that you’re defensive or closed off when you’re actually standing too close to an AC vent.
Manipulation and Deception: Nonverbal communication can be harmful and even dangerous in the wrong hands. A steady gaze while telling a lie or a forced smile are subtle tricks that can deceive even the sharpest observer. Anyone who’s lost at a social deduction game like “One Night Ultimate Werewolf” knows what we’re talking about.
Emotional Leakage: Not everyone has a good poker face. A clenched fist, furrowed brow, or flicker of sadness in the eyes are all signs that betray emotions we’d often rather keep locked away. Try though we might, our expressions often give away the truth.
Cultural Differences: Facial expressions are universal, regardless of race, culture, or nationality. A smile is a smile the world over. Gestures and other nonverbal cues, on the other hand, vary across cultures and could get you in trouble if you’re not careful. For instance, flash the “OK’ sign in France or Germany and you might have a fight on your hands.
Worried about how nonverbal communication is affecting your interpersonal relationships? Start by taking a long look at your interactions with others. Notice how you carry yourself when you’re happy versus when you’re frustrated (and try not to cross your arms so much). Think about how your tone changes, rising or falling with the weight of your emotions.
Now that so much of our interpersonal communication has shifted online, being mindful of your nonverbal habits is more important than ever. Your tone and expressions speak volumes online, especially during video conferences—Don’t think for a second that no one’s watching your Zoom square during big meetings. Drop an emoji to punctuate your messages. Better yet, send a voice instead of a text. That way, you know your messages land the way you intend.
You should also consider how you react to other people’s nonverbal cues. During conversations, try to remain patient and observant. And before you assume someone’s crossed arms or lack of eye contact is a sign of disinterest, ask yourself, “what are they really feeling?” When you put yourself in someone else’s shoes, conversations and relationships in general become a whole lot easier.
Want to sharpen your communication skills? Consider pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication online from The University of Texas Permian Basin. Our online program offers the knowledge you need to write clearly, speak eloquently, and master the art of communication, no matter the situation.
Check out our online BA in communication program, and if you’re ready to explore all forms of communication, apply today!
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/nonverbal-communication
https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-nonverbal-communication-2795397
Stage fright is more common than you might think. Millions of people struggle with public speaking skills, and the fear even has a name: glossophobia.
Being asked to speak in front of others can trigger a fight-or-flight response, especially when you feel unprepared or exposed. The good news? Effective public speaking is a learned skill, and with the right techniques, it becomes easier over time. ome people even enjoy it.
Below, we break down what effective speaking really means and how to improve public speaking skills with practical, research-backed strategies.
Effective public speaking is the ability to communicate ideas clearly, confidently, and in a way that engages your audience. It combines preparation, audience awareness, and delivery techniques, along with strategies that help reduce anxiety and make your message more impactful.
In other words, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about speaking effectively so your message lands.
You may not gain the public speaking chops of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. or Barack Obama overnight, but the right techniques can help you feel more confident and communicate more effectively.
Many people approach public speaking as a performance, worrying about how others might judge them. A more effective approach is communication-oriented thinking, which treats your speech like a conversation focused on sharing ideas rather than delivering a presentation.
This mindset shift alone can significantly reduce anxiety.
Strong preparation is one of the most effective public speaking techniques. Structure your speech with a clear beginning, middle, and end, and plan your timing carefully. Visual aids can support your message and keep your audience engaged.
Practice is one of the most reliable methods to improve public speaking. Rehearse out loud, record yourself, or practice in front of a trusted audience. Familiarity can reduce nerves and improve delivery.
Your posture, eye contact, and vocal tone all influence how your message is received. Standing tall, slowing your pace, and maintaining eye contact help you appear—and feel—more confident.
Effective speaking requires understanding who you’re addressing. Consider your audience’s background and expectations any questions they may have. Tailoring your language and examples helps your message resonate.
Public speaking anxiety is rooted in the body’s stress response. Techniques like visualization, positive self-talk, and box breathing can help regulate nerves before and during a presentation.
The more often you speak publicly, the easier it becomes. Repeated exposure can strengthen confidence and reinforce public speaking skills through experience.
If anxiety persists, working with a mentor or instructor can accelerate improvement. Feedback and guidance help refine speech technique and build long-term confidence.
If you’re interested in developing professional communication skills, The University of Texas Permian Basin offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Communication. The program includes coursework in public speaking, interpersonal communication, and persuasive messaging: skills that translate across industries.
Graduates pursue careers in public relations, journalism, leadership, politics, and more. If you’d like to explore how a communication degree can support your personal and professional goals, learn more about UT Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
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When you click “send” on a text message, your message turns into data and passes from a nearby cell tower to your mobile network’s short message service center (SMSC). The SMSC finds the intended recipient and sends your message to the closest cell tower. Finally, your message arrives.
Communication, including verbal and written communication, has become one of the most highly valued skills by employers. However, “communication” is often confused with “communications,” which is an entirely different area of study.
We’re here to define these terms and explain why communication is such an important skill for professionals of all experience levels. After all, the last thing you want is for your resume to be “left on read.”
Communication is the passing of information from one person to another. This process can take any form, from a symbol to a message to an idea. An impassioned speech, a string of emojis, or a student’s term paper—all are valid forms of communication. Anyone who’s received a wink from an admirer will tell you how a single gesture can often carry more meaning than a manifesto.
If you want to get granular, communication can be broken down into three components: a message, sender, and receiver.
Right now, we’re sending a message in the form of an online article to a receiver (that’s you). This entire exchange is an example of communication, but there’s more to it than that. Communication implies our intention to impart information; your motive to absorb information; and the existence of people, places, things, and ideas that are the subject matter of the message. All these elements are essential to our understanding of communication.
“Communication” and “communications” were initially synonymous. Over time, communications came to refer to the various ways to send a communication, including the transmitted message or the channel used to send it, such as a fiber optic cable.
An email to a coworker or a text to a friend? That’s communications. The meaning conveyed by the messages you send? That’s communication.
Consider how communications have changed over time. Historically, messages were written on parchment and delivered on foot, by horseback, or via carrier pigeons, which are still in use today. Then came the telegram, radio, and television. Today’s technology allows for almost instantaneous transmission of messages across the globe. In fact, you’re likely reading this on a supercomputer that can fit in the palm of your hand.
The rapid development of information and communication technology has forever changed society, including how we work. About one-third of U.S. workers capable of working from home now do so, assisted by messaging apps like Slack and Microsoft Teams. Education has also undergone a facelift, and college students are now able to study from anywhere with a Wi-Fi connection (hint, hint, nudge, nudge).
Communication is among the most highly sought-after skills in today’s job market, and the reason is clear. Many employees can be trained on the job, but employers aren’t looking to invest in someone who can’t collaborate with teammates, build positive relationships, or express their ideas. They’re looking for people who can communicate effectively, whether speaking with customers, sending an email, or leading a team.
We’ve all encountered someone with charisma: a “social butterfly” who quiets a room whenever they clear their throat to speak. Although their talents seem innate, they share the same fundamental communication skills as everyone else. What sets these social butterflies apart is not their gift for gab but rather their ability to harness and refine these skills.
Speaking, active listening, and empathy: You already possess the communication skills you need to succeed in your career, you need only hone them. The University of Texas Permian Basin can help.
UT Permian Basin offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication program with comprehensive instruction that provides you with skills highly sought-after in virtually any industry, including broadcasting, marketing, and education.
No online communication program would be complete without an engaging learning experience accessible on mobile devices. Courses in this online bachelor’s degree program are offered through Canvas, a web-based learning management system. Within Canvas, students can watch lectures, submit assignments, and participate in discussions—everything you need in an undergraduate program, all in one place.
Core courses like Introduction to Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Rhetoric in Western Thought will build up your verbal and written communication skills. You can also tailor your degree to your specific interests by choosing from one of our specialty tracks:
Ready to get started? Apply now and get ready to pursue an online Bachelor of Arts in Communication.
Sources:
https://simpletexting.com/sms-marketing/how-texting-works/
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-communication-communications-subhamoy-das/
https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=AY7VCgAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT2&dq=communication+vs+communications&ots=ccCYZS5XUj&sig=aGGQ1yQj4qnPhijl6agqdc2z8JQ#v=onepage&q&f=false
https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=PlKgBAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PP1&dq=communication+vs+communications&ots=n4JDmHEJMR&sig=mIiORqn7fOO3CQPSF-GcmwlS2-I#v=onepage&q&f=false
If you’ve been considering a bachelor’s degree in communication but are wondering how it can benefit you, we have a lot to tell you! Below we outline skills and career pathways closely connected to a communication degree and explain how you can earn yours while continuing to meet your professional and personal obligations.
One of the top reasons you may want to choose a communication bachelor’s degree is that it offers broadly applicable and highly transferrable skills: written and verbal communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and research. These are chief among the skills today’s employers value most, according to sources including the federal government and Forbes.
Soft skills, sometimes called durable skills, have become especially critical now that more people are working remotely, though they’re valuable to every professional regardless of their work environment. Yet these skills are also scarce among job candidates. Adding a communication degree and its corresponding expertise to your resume can give you a competitive advantage at hiring time.
Communication degree graduates can go on to enjoy a variety of rewarding careers. Let’s take a look at communication-related professions that require at least a bachelor’s degree and their commensurate salaries. Though we’ve divided this into eight job categories, you’ll see that each of these pathways forks into multiple potential career paths:
1. Advertising, Promotions, or Marketing Manager
4. Editor
5. Public Relations Specialist
6. Public Relations or Fundraising Manager
7. News Analyst, Reporter, or Journalist
You’ve seen some of the benefits of earning a communication degree. Now let’s look at some of the benefits you’ll experience from the very first day of classes if you choose UT Permian Basin. Our 100% online Bachelor of Arts in Communication degree program equips you with an essential foundation of multidisciplinary courses, followed by core communication courses and the opportunity to pursue one of several specialty tracks that may align with your interests and career goals:
No matter which track you choose, you’ll be guided by the same distinguished faculty who teach on campus while you experience the advantages of our online format. Complete your studies from anywhere in the world, at your own pace, with the flexibility to give other important areas of your life the attention they need. No campus visits are required.
Ready to get started? Apply today.
Have questions? Contact us.
More than ever, instant communication rules our workplaces, whether over digital platforms and videoconferencing or in-person meetings and discussions. In fact, the ability to effectively communicate is considered one of the top soft skills needed to thrive in the modern workplace. Individuals who can accurately relay information, provide valuable feedback, and listen to ideas can often leverage their professional advantage into increased opportunities and higher salaries.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, however, employers report that on average, entry-level candidates struggle with knowing how to listen carefully. Good communication can influence a workplace’s level of morale, employee engagement, client relationships, and productivity. A 2012 McKinsey report found that proper communication by management and the use of social technologies increases employee productivity by up to 25%.
If you’re ready to develop your professional communication skills, The University of Texas Permian Basin’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication can help.
Communication in the digital age is an ever-changing field, and it’s important to know the ins and outs before you enter the workforce. Our online program will hone your critical thinking and research skills by exploring a wide variety of communication topics, including small group communication, crisis communication, public relations, and interpersonal communication. You’ll also explore the dark side of this multi-faceted field and discover the importance of an ethical approach to messaging.
Did you know that our online BA in communication program lets you choose from four specialization options? Read on to see which track is best tailored to your interests and aligned with your passions and how each specialization can translate to a successful future profession.
If professional versatility is your priority, consider our general Communication Studies track. With this specialization, you’ll gain a broad understanding of diverse methods of communication and develop in-demand skills applicable to just about any profession.
Our communication degree will guide you through the logistics behind content and advertising strategies and the psychological aspects of everyday information exchanged all around us. If you want to work in media, you may want to consider reporting, television or radio broadcasting, or copywriting. If you love organizing and coordinating events, you may even want to pursue a position as an event planner. Career choices for individuals pursuing our Communication Studies track include:
Our Professional Communication track is one of the few undergraduate specializations in existence that focuses specifically on workplace communication.
One of the most important applications of good communication in the workplace is establishing and expressing consistent expectations for your employees. Students specializing in our Professional Communication track will learn how to build skills in leadership, interpersonal communication, and communication within teams and how to address and resolve conflict.
According to Gallup research, only 22% of employees strongly agree that their manager has a clear direction for their organization. Four out of five employees report that they begin looking for a new job when their manager provides negative feedback. Professionals who specialize in our Professional Communication track will learn how to build a transparent and inspiring work culture that makes employees feel committed and engaged.
With this specialization, you’ll be able to manage and supervise just about any department. You may also want to venture into job recruitment, fundraising, or even work as a nonprofit manager who helps coordinate and promote company brands. Job options for those pursuing our Professional Communication track include:
Communication majors with a passion for social media, marketing, writing, and advertising will want to explore our Strategic Messaging track. You’ll learn how to craft clear, concise messaging for audiences and how to promote your company’s vision, services, and products.
In our Strategic Messaging track, you’ll develop strategies for effective brand building and communication strategies that will help you thrive in the competitive world of marketing and advertising. Our BA in communication program specializes in crisis management, so you may even want to branch out into a crisis management position and help brands preserve their reputation during challenging times. Careers students in our Strategic Messaging track may want to pursue include:
Communication majors with a passion for sports can combine their interests with our unique and versatile sports media track. You’ll study sports messaging from both sides through our curated sports electives, diving into topics like sports broadcasting, media writing, sports communication, and public relations. Whether you want to work as a sportswriter or as a marketing professional for a major sports organization, this track will equip you with the skills you need to pursue a number of sports-related careers, including:
Our classes are entirely online and asynchronous, meaning you can conveniently pursue your degree from anywhere in the world, even if you have a busy schedule. Whichever track suits your dream career best, you can be sure UTPB’s online Bachelor of Arts in Communication will prepare you for success.
Sources:
https://www.coursera.org/articles/what-can-you-do-with-a-communication-degree
https://www.betterup.com/blog/why-communication-is-key-to-workplace-and-how-to-improve-skills
https://leadershipchoice.com/power-good-communication-workplace/
https://pumble.com/learn/communication/communication-statistics/
