Impact of demographics and communication skills on writing difficulties in university employees: A structural equation modeling approach

Abstract

The study addresses the university correspondence paradox, a relatively unexplored topic in organizational communication research. It examines the relationships between the demographic profile, noncognitive constructs, communication skills, and the degree of difficulty in writing correspondence among university employees. Methodology: A correlational research design was employed, involving 300 participants from Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Region IV-B, MIMAROPA, Philippines. Data collection focused on demographic factors, communication skills, and noncognitive constructs affecting correspondence writing. Results: Findings revealed that university employees often struggle to pursue postgraduate studies due to work overload. Additionally, a significant portion of employees hold job orders and contractual positions rather than regular employment. The study further established that communication skills and noncognitive constructs significantly predict the degree of difficulty in writing correspondence. Recommendations: To address these challenges, the researchers recommend the development of an employee development plan tailored for administrative aides under job order and contractual employment, enabling them to pursue postgraduate studies. Furthermore, standardized correspondence templates should be created and distributed to employees handling administrative tasks to enhance clarity, completeness, conciseness, courtesy, concreteness, consideration, and correctness in official communication.