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With so many different communications software available, figuring out which is the right one for your company is tough. You know you want a tool to bridge the gap between teams and make group communication easier, but you need to figure out which tool is best. In this post, I'll help you make your choice easy by sharing my insights on the best communications software and apps to send messages, share files, and conduct virtual meetings with remote colleagues from anywhere.

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The Best Communications Software Comparison Chart

This comparison chart summarizes basic details about each of my top communications software selections. You can view pricing details and the availability of free trials or demos side-by-side to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.

Overviews of the 10 Best Communications Software

In this section, I will give a detailed overview of the top 10 communication software solutions. I will highlight their key features and benefits and explain how they can improve internal communication and employee engagement.

Best for overseeing field-based operations

  • 14-day free trial + free demo available
  • From $29/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Connecteam is an all-in-one employee management application designed to streamline operations, enhance communication, and address HR needs for mobile-first businesses. It includes a personalized company news feed, secure instant messaging, employee surveys, and an employee-facing knowledge base.

Why I picked Connecteam: I selected Connecteam due to its comprehensive features that facilitate real-time oversight of operations, a characteristic that sets it apart from other tools in the market. Connecteam offers a unique blend of communication, operation, and training tools all in one place, which is not commonly found in other software.

In addition to communicating directly with your employees or teams, you can also use Connecteam for time tracking, shift management, and task monitoring, making it an ideal solution for businesses seeking greater oversight of mobile or field-based operations.

Connecteam Standout Features & Integrations

Standout features for Connecteam include their communication and task management tools. Managers can communicate directly with employees through their secure instant messaging, then assign them follow-up tasks directly within the app, including additional comments and attachments. Employees can mark them as complete as they work, giving their managers an up-to-date progress report as they go about their tasks.

Other useful features include a dedicated employee communication channel with targeted updates, team engagement features, a digital suggestion box to collect employee feedback, a searchable company directory, and an organizational chart.

Integrations include Paychex, Xero, Gusto, QuickBooks Payroll (online + desktop), Google Calendar and others.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Task management features help improve productivity and accountability
  • All features are mobile-accessible
  • Intuitive and user-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Primarily designed for mobile devices, which may be a limitation for users who prefer desktop-based solutions
  • Limited offline functionalities

New Product Updates from Connecteam

Connecteam Adds Pay Period Locks and Break Premium Controls
Connecteam locks closed pay periods to prevent further timesheet edits.
August 2 2026
Connecteam Adds Pay Period Locks and Break Premium Controls

Connecteam adds closed and locked pay periods, Payroll Manager permissions, and timesheet actions for dismissing or reapplying Break Premiums to protect payroll accuracy and simplify exception management. For more information, visit Connecteam’s official site.

Best for connecting growing teams and SMEs

  • Free trial + free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
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Rating: 4.5/5

Hub is an advanced, employee communication software designed for growing teams and SMEs to enhance connectivity, internal communication, and employee engagement.

Why I picked Hub: Hub supports two-way communication and collaboration through feedback and group forums. You can target your communication for various audiences through intelligent tagging and tailored emails. I also like that it includes tools for communication and insights around employee well-being through forms, surveys, and polls. Additionally, Hub facilitates resource sharing and collaboration across multiple locations in a secure workspace and includes features such as likes, comments, and usage reports.

Hub is fully mobile responsive, allowing remote access to all features, and includes continuous upgrades based on customer feedback to ensure it remains a cutting-edge solution for internal corporate communications.

Another thing that stands out to me is the fact that Hub champions sustainability and will plant 50 trees for each new HUB sold, with a focus on community-based reforestation projects that support communities affected by climate change. They also offer SME and nonprofit discounts and don't charge setup fees, making it a good solution for smaller to medium-sized businesses.

Hub Standout Features & Integrations

Standout features include access to all areas with no hidden costs or add-ons, free upgrades ensuring users always have the latest version, and a user-friendly interface designed for simplicity and ease of navigation.

Hub can be set up rapidly, often within 48 hours, providing a fully branded intranet experience.

Integrations include Single Sign-On, Gmail and Microsoft Outlook email and calendar accounts, Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, SharePoint, third-party feeds and HTML widgets, and Enabler email marketing software.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Advanced AI analytics
  • Customizable micro-applications
  • Comprehensive communication suite

Cons:

  • May not be cost effective for small biz
  • Slight learning curve

Best video conferencing communication software

  • Free plan available
  • From $14.16/user/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 5/5

Zoom is a video conferencing platform for online video conferences, webinars, and live chats through their desktop or mobile app.

Why I picked Zoom: I chose Zoom because of features that help me in a meeting. The virtual background that lets me place an image or video behind me helps keep my real location hidden while still looking professional. Another cool thing about Zoom is its translated captions feature, which makes it easy for employees who speak different languages to communicate without the need for an interpreter or translation services. 

Zoom Standout Features and Integrations:

Zoom stands out for its high-quality video and audio calling, ensuring clear communication in every interaction. Users can interact more with features like screen sharing and hand-raising reactions. Breakout rooms facilitate focused small group discussions, while the polling and Q&A feature enhances participant engagement. Additionally, its phone call capabilities, complete with voicemail, call forwarding, and recording, make it a comprehensive communication tool.

Integrations include Salesforce, HubSpot, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Drive, Dropbox Box, Trello, Asana, and Fireflies.ai.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Wide range of integrations
  • User-friendly interface
  • High-quality video

Cons:

  • Call quality is sometimes low
  • Meeting time is limited in the free version

Best for fostering employee engagement

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
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Rating: 4.8/5

Workvivo is an employee experience platform that combines communication features and employee engagement tools within a social intranet-style platform. The platform offers features that support information sharing, collaboration, and recognition to give every employee a voice.

Why I picked Workvivo: I included Workvivo because it emphasizes employee communication and engagement through its social intranet capabilities. What makes Workvivo stand out to me is its ability to gather and monitor workplace insights in dashboards and its versatility in uniting and engaging employees across various industries. The platform supports employee engagement with its comprehensive approach to communication, culture amplification, and support for remote working, which are essential for nurturing a connected and engaged workforce.

Workvivo Standout Features & Integrations:

Some of Workvivo's standout features include community groups for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, a social intranet to centralize messaging, a documents portal, and inclusive communication channels for leadership and team member interactions.

Additionally, the platform provides workplace insights through analytics and ensures security for data and communication while allowing users to personalize their experience through preferences and cookie consent management.

Integrations include Google Drive, Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, Slack, Workday, Zoom, and others. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Platform offers multiple features to support employee engagement
  • Helpful customer support resources
  • Supports multiple spaces for departments and topics

Cons:

  • Has a bit of a learning curve to master
  • Mobile app has limited functionality

Best for instant messaging

  • 30-day free trial + free demo available
  • From $2.50/user/month
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Rating: 4.8/5

Troop Messenger is a real-time messenger application that helps businesses manage team collaboration and communication.

Why I picked Troop Messenger: I selected Troop Messenger because of its burnout function, which provides an exclusive method for private chatting. You can set a timer, and once the time is up the message disappears. This is a clever way to have a discussion without any evidence left behind. Another exceptional feature is forkout, which lets you send a single message or attachment to numerous people without creating a group.

Troop Messenger Standout Features and Integrations:

One standout feature of Troop Messenger is the "info" function, which provides information on each message sent and received, such as the time it was read and delivered. The "recall" feature allows users to delete a message on both the sender and receiver's end, but only within ten minutes of sending it.

Additionally, messages can be marked as important, and the "Respond Later" option allows users to set a reminder to reply when they have more available time.

Integrations through Zapier include Asana, GitHub, Gmail, Zoom, Google Calendar, Freshdesk, HubSpot, ClickUp, and Microsoft Outlook.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Supports multiple languages
  • Includes self-message
  • Secure

Cons:

  • Chat filters hidden
  • No built-in meeting recording

Best emergency communication software

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
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Rating: 4.7/5

AlertMedia is an emergency communication and mass notification software that helps companies notify employees of emergencies and ensures the right people receive critical information when needed.

Why I picked AlertMedia: I chose AlertMedia because of its unwavering dedication to keeping employees safe. This all-inclusive solution offers mass notifications and a 24/7 monitoring team for added assurance. The Employee Safety Monitoring App sets AlertMedia apart because it turns a standard mobile phone into a powerful safety device with one-touch access to law enforcement. Another important factor for me was the app's capability to read and respond to urgent organizational messages. 

AlertMedia Standout Features and Integrations:

AlertMedia provides standout features that improve communication in both directions, enabling individuals to confirm their well-being or share information about current events. Users can effortlessly send notifications through various channels. AlertMedia also offers pre-made message templates that ensure consistent responses during emergencies, saving valuable time.

Integrations are available with the Fusion Framework System.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Responsive customer support
  • GDPR and CCPA-compliant system
  • Real-time notifications

Cons:

  • Pricing not transparent
  • No free trial

Best for assessing employee sentiment

  • Free demo available
  • Pricing upon request
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Rating: 4.8/5

Simpplr is an employee communication and engagement platform designed to streamline internal communications within organizations.

Why I picked Simpplr: I chose Simmplr for its prescriptive analytics feature, which uses AI-driven data to provide useful insights into employee engagement. It combines usage data, sentiment analysis, behavioral signals, and feedback to offer organizations tailored recommendations for future actions. Additionally, Simpplr includes a change management tool that assists leaders in understanding employee sentiment toward organizational changes.

Simpplr Standout Features and Integrations:

Simpplr has a smart search function powered by AI that assists users in finding the most suitable results. The platform has a simple and intuitive interface that even non-technical people can easily manage, allowing them to organize properties throughout their organization. With content delivery customization, each employee can receive information that is relevant to their needs.

Integrations include BambooHR, Dropbox, Google Drive, Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams, Okta, Salesforce, SharePoint/OneDrive, Slack, and Confluence.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Mobile app
  • Supportive implementation team
  • Intuitive interface

Cons:

  • Cannot create hidden pages
  • Custom quote required for precise cost

Best for communicating with clients

  • 30-day free trial + free plan available
  • From $4.50/user/month (billed annually)
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Rating: 4.5/5

Flock is a communication and collaboration tool designed to streamline team communication and enhance productivity.

Why I picked Flock: I selected Flock because of its impressive ability to widen the circle of collaboration. Inviting guest users ensures that decisions aren't just made based on internal opinions but also factor in valuable feedback from external stakeholders. 

Another distinguishing feature is its voice notes option. There are moments when typing can't capture the nuances of a message, so sending voice notes helps compare and judge tones, making it easier to determine the context or emphasis of a conversation.

Flock Standout Features and Integrations:

One of the standout features of Flock is its channel messaging system, which allows users to organize their conversations. With this feature, users can create channels for specific projects and priorities, making it easier to hold strategy meetings and brainstorming sessions and get instant feedback. Flock also supports in-app video and voice conferencing, enabling teams to meet even in different locations. Furthermore, the integrated search feature in Flock helps users find necessary information quickly. 

Integrations include Asana, Dropbox Business, GitHub, Google Analytics 360, Google Drive, Google Workspace, Jira, Mailchimp, Trello, and Twitter.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Special pricing for non-profits
  • Mobile app
  • User-friendly

Cons:

  • Busy interface
  • Limited customization

Best virtual phone communication system

  • Free trial available
  • Price upon request
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Rating: 4.4/5

GoToConnect is an all-in-one phone, meeting, and messaging software built for small buisenesses. 

Why I picked GoToConnect: I selected GoToConnect for its easy-to-use and advanced VOIP calling abilities, which enable teams to deliver excellent customer service from anywhere. With features like virtual receptionists and voicemail, connecting with clients and teammates is always possible. The virtual voicemail allows you to listen to messages from anywhere, making it easy to prioritize important ones. 

GoToConnect Standout Features and Integrations:

GoToConnect lets businesses quickly set up new phone numbers or use their current ones. They offer audio conferencing for businesses, supporting calls with up to 250 people. Their video conferencing is safe and can be used from anywhere and on any device. 

Integrations include Zendesk, Salesforce, Miro, Microsoft Teams, Google Calendar, Salesforce Lightning, Prezi, Docebo, and CirQlive.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Excellent sound quality
  • 24/7 customer support
  • Easy to use

Cons:

  • No mobile app for admin portal
  • Relies on internet connection

Best for mobile intranet access

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $1,300/year for 50 users
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

MyHub is a cloud-based intranet software solution designed to support internal communication and collaboration within organizations.

Why I picked MyHub: MyHub provides a centralized platform where organizations can create, share, and manage content to enhance internal communication. It includes features such as discussion boards, blogs, and news feeds that facilitate interactive communication among team members. The tool also offers a staff directory and profiles, which help employees connect and collaborate more effectively. 

Additionally, MyHub supports file sharing and document management, enabling teams to access important information and resources in a secure environment. The platform's calendar feature also allows for the scheduling and promotion of events, ensuring that all team members are informed of upcoming activities and deadlines. MyHub is accessible from any device with internet connectivity, making it particularly suitable for remote and distributed teams.

MyHub Standout Features and Integrations:

Beyond traditional communication, MyHub incorporates social features like forums, blogs, and polls, fostering a sense of community and enhancing engagement across the organization. MyHub also emphasizes data protection and offers advanced security options, including two-factor authentication and custom access levels.

Integrations include Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Vimeo, Microsoft Power BI, Dropbox, YouTube, Single Sign-on, Canva, and Box.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Includes smart search functionality
  • Provides a customizable dashboard
  • User-friendly interface

Cons:

  • Potential for information overload
  • Limited customization in some advanced features

Other Options

Here are some other communication tools that didn’t make it to my top 10 but are still worth considering:

  1. Atlas

    For cohesive project communication

  2. Mattermost

    Secure communication software

  3. HubEngage

    Multi-channel communications software

  4. Slack

    For remote teams

  5. Asana

    Asynchronous team communication tool

  6. Homebase

    For communicating with hourly employees

  7. Workmates

    For sending employees notifications

  8. Assembly

    For small businesses

  9. Front

    Team communication software

How I Evaluate Communications Software

I split my evaluation into baseline capabilities—like multi-channel reach and HRIS sync—and differentiators that matter when you're communicating with a global, deskless workforce.

Core Functionality (Table Stakes For This List)

When I'm selecting tools for my list, I rank each one on a scale from 0 (does not offer the functionality) to 5 (excels in this area) for each core functionality listed below. Then, I calculate the tool's total score into a percentage. Each tool needs to achieve a minimum total score of 65% to be considered for inclusion.

  • Multi-Channel Messaging: I look at how many delivery channels a platform supports—email, SMS, push notifications, in-app, and desktop—and whether they're managed from one send flow.
  • Audience Segmentation: The ability to target messages by department, location, or role matters, especially when HR needs to reach warehouse staff separately from office teams.
  • Two-Way Communication: I evaluate whether employees can respond through comments, polls, or surveys, since one-way broadcasts don't give HR teams the feedback loop they need.
  • Engagement Analytics: Dashboards that show open rates, read receipts, and click-throughs at the segment level help me gauge whether a tool gives communicators real visibility into reach.
  • HRIS Integration: Connecting with systems like Workday, BambooHR, or ADP to auto-sync employee data and org structures saves HR teams from manually maintaining distribution lists.
  • Mobile Accessibility: I check for a dedicated mobile app with push notifications, since reaching frontline and deskless workers who lack corporate email depends entirely on mobile access.

Once I have a list of tools that meet the criteria, I consider what sets each platform apart.

Differentiating Factors (What Sets Vendors Apart)

Here's how I compare and contrast different vendors:

Standout Features

Multilingual support is a big deal for organizations with a global workforce—I look for platforms that auto-translate messages so HR doesn't need to manually create versions for each region. Crisis communication mode is another feature I evaluate closely, since urgent situations like safety incidents require mandatory-read acknowledgments and rapid delivery. Campaign scheduling with time-zone-aware sends also matters when you're coordinating an open enrollment rollout across multiple offices.

Beyond Features

Compliance and security matter a lot when employee data flows between systems—I check for SOC 2 Type II certification, SSO/SAML support, and role-based access controls, especially for organizations in regulated industries like healthcare. Implementation support is another factor I evaluate, since rolling out a new communications platform to thousands of employees requires adoption playbooks and change management guidance. Pricing transparency also counts—I look at whether per-employee costs are clear and whether premium channels like SMS are included or billed separately.

How to Choose the Best Communication Software

It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:

FactorWhat to Consider
Scalability
Can the tool grow with your headcount and structure? Look for flexible user tiers and admin roles. Avoid rigid seat limits that force early upgrades.
IntegrationsDoes it connect with your HRIS, calendar, or project tools? Poor integrations create double work and missed messages. Check for native vs. custom APIs.
CustomizabilityCan you tailor branding, notifications, and workflows? HR teams often need specific approval flows or message templates. Avoid tools with one-size-fits-all limits.
Ease of UseWill non-technical staff adopt it quickly? Test for intuitive interfaces and minimal training needs. Clunky dashboards often stall rollout.
Implementation and OnboardingHow much time and internal lift will setup take? Ask about onboarding support, timeline estimates, and data migration help. Plan for at least 2–6 weeks for rollout.
CostAre there per-user fees, annual contracts, or hidden admin costs? Compare against expected usage and support needs. Budget for ~10–20% over base price.
Security SafeguardsDoes it support SSO, role-based access, and data encryption? HR comms often contain sensitive info—confirm compliance with your org’s IT standards.
Support AvailabilityWhen something breaks, how fast can you get help? Look for live chat or dedicated reps. Long ticket queues can disrupt urgent HR workflows.

What is Communications Software?

Communication software is a group of tools and applications that help make internal communication within an organization easier and more efficient. These tools allow leaders, managers, and HR staff to instantly connect with their employees through direct messaging, or voice and video calls, helping them share information and collaborate on tasks easier. Communications software is also mobile friendly, keeping teams connected no matter where they're logging in from.

Investing in robust communications software can improve your organization's productivity and increase engagement by enhancing collaboration and connectivity between team members. These solutions also help organizations communicate at scale, including the ability to segment messages by teams, departments, or work locations easily for more relevant information dissemination.

Features of Online Communication Tools

When selecting communications software, keep an eye out for the following key features:

  • Instant Messaging: Lets team members communicate internally in real-time, which is important for making quick decisions.
  • Read Receipts: Shows who has viewed your messages so you can track communication reach.
  • Audience Targeting: Lets you send updates to specific groups or departments to keep communication relevant.
  • Two-way Messaging: Enables employees to respond or ask questions directly in the platform.
  • Mobile Access: Ensures team members can receive and send messages from anywhere via mobile apps.
  • Multimedia Support: Lets you include images, files, videos, or documents to make messages more engaging.
  • Video Conferencing: Enables real-time face-to-face communication to help build stronger relationships.
  • Announcement Pinning: Keeps important messages visible at the top of a feed or channel.
  • Language Support: Provides translations or localization for global teams to understand messages.
  • Searchable Archives: Allows you to quickly find past communications when needed.
  • Notifications and Alerts: Lets you customize notifications to ensure team members are aware of important updates.
  • Admin Controls: Gives HR and comms leaders the ability to manage permissions and monitor usage.
  • Security and Compliance: Strong security features and compliance with industry standards to protect sensitive information and ensure you are meeting regulatory requirements.

Choosing the right tools for online communication with these features can help enhance overall productivity and collaboration for your team. By focusing on the key aspects that make the most sense for your unique business, you can ensure your team can make decisions more effectively.

Benefits of Communication Software

Implementing communication tools, whether for project management, HR management, or overall company operations, provides several benefits for your team and business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Improved Communication Habits: Built-in reminders and analytics help teams send messages more clearly and consistently.
  • Faster Updates: You can send messages quickly so everyone gets the info they need without delay.
  • Fewer Missed Messages: Tools that reach people on multiple channels help make sure your team doesn’t overlook anything important.
  • Less Time Chasing Responses: Feedback tools like polls and read tracking help you see who’s engaged without endless follow-ups.
  • Better Team Alignment: When everyone sees the same updates in one place, it’s easier to stay on the same page.
  • Easier Message Planning: Scheduling and templates make it simpler to prep and send announcements ahead of time.
  • More Accessible Info: With mobile access and search features, people can find past messages when they need them.

Investing in communication platforms can improve the way your team interacts and collaborates, leading to better organizational outcomes and a more in-sync work environment.

Costs & Pricing for Communication Software

Selecting internal communication software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in internal communication software solutions:

Plan Comparison Table for Communication Tools

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic messaging, limited users, minimal storage, and community support.
Personal Plan$5–$10/user/monthIndividual messaging, message history, basic templates, and simple analytics.
Business Plan$12–$25/user/monthGroup channels, scheduling, integrations, message tracking, and user permissions.
Enterprise Plan$30–$60/user/monthCustom branding, advanced security, admin controls, dedicated support, and audits.

Communications Software Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions related to communications software and its benefits:

What are the benefits of using communications software?

Communications software helps organizations streamline internal communication, enhance employee engagement, improve productivity, and ensure that important information is disseminated quickly and efficiently.

What are some best practices for internal communication?

Best practices for internal communication include setting clear goals and objectives, fostering open and transparent communication, using appropriate channels for different types of messages, and regularly evaluating the effectiveness of communication strategies. For HR leaders, keeping up to date with the latest communication best practices can really make a difference.

How can communication software improve business operations?

Communication software can improve business operations by facilitating real-time collaboration, reducing communication barriers, enhancing employee engagement, and streamlining workflows, ultimately leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

How can I integrate communication tools with other software in my tech stack?

To integrate communication tools with other software in your tech stack, start by mapping out the platforms your team already uses—like HR systems, calendars, or project management tools—and choose solutions that connect easily with them. For example, HR leaders will need communication tools that integrate with HRIS platforms to coordinate employee updates and onboarding, while those managing projects will need project communication tools that sync with tools like Asana or Jira to keep tasks, updates, and discussions in one place. The best communication software supports native integrations or automation platforms, so everything works together without extra manual effort.

Other Communications Software Reviews

I’ve also conducted comprehensive reviews of other communications software. Feel free to check them out if you're interested:

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right communication software for your organization depends on your specific needs and budget. Each tool on this list has its benefits and can aid you in managing various communication aspects. Remember, the ideal software integrates effortlessly with your existing workflows. 

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Josh Barker
By Josh Barker

I'm the People Operations Manager at Black & White Zebra in Vancouver, where I oversee the full employee lifecycle, spanning talent acquisition through performance management. I built BWZ's recruitment framework from the ground up and use data to drive performance-focused improvements. Prior to this role, I led full-cycle hiring at GitLab and drove 60% headcount growth at Aequilibrium. I hold a Black Belt in Internet Recruitment and a B.S. in Human Geography.