Abstract
This grounded theory study, informed by Communication Accommodation Theory, explores how frontline managers (n = 11) support early-career employees’ communication development. Findings identify three support strategies—structured scaffolding, adaptive leadership, and onboarding for cultural fit—and suggest colleges emphasize verbal and intercultural communication, applied learning, and professional presence. These insights reframe communication readiness as a relational process shaped by emotion, power, and organizational norms. The study calls for stronger collaboration between higher education and employers.
Document Type
Article
Source Publication
Business and Professional Communication Quarterly
Version
Accepted Version
Publication Date
10-8-2025
First Page
1
Last Page
19
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 License.
Rights
© The Author(s)
Recommended Citation
Miller, L. N., & McCullough, K. (2025). Relational Realities of Readiness: What Managers Wish Colleges Knew About Business Communication. Business and Professional Communication Quarterly, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/23294906251376618
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