Although the term management communication is frequently used, it has not been defined and the discipline has no focus. As a result, a problem in professional identity and reputation exists. Identity problems exist because the discipline consists of professionals with disparate backgrounds who approach management communication from different perspectives. Academic reputation problems occur because management communication emphasizes skills development. Because of identity and reputation problems, it is important to look at the purpose of management communication. The discipline can best distinguish itself by conducting research within the managerial context, which is difficult for professors to understand because managers and academics operate in such different environments. Also, serious obstacles exist to conducting valuable management communication research. The challenge remains to conduct rigorous, valid communication research within the managerial context that results in relevant implementation guidelines. These research results will develop a focus and definition for management communication.
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