Who are the individuals you communicate with in writing or speaking referred to as?

In the context of communication, individuals you interact with, whether in writing or speaking, are best referred to as the audience. This term encompasses anyone who receives the message, aligning with various scenarios such as presentations, reports, or public speaking engagements. The audience can include colleagues, clients, or any group for whom the communication is intended.

Identifying your audience is crucial for tailoring your message to suit their interests, understanding level, and expectations, leading to more effective communication. The goal is to engage and inform your audience, making them central to the communication process.

The other choices, such as partners, stakeholders, and employees, are more specific in their definitions. While they might represent portions of an audience depending on the situation, the term "audience" is more encompassing, capturing anyone who is listening to or reading your communication. Thus, the term reflects the broader scope of individuals engaged with your message.