Communication

Straightforward communication transfers information, resolves conflict, repairs harm and builds connections. Having the ability to convey thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely in written, oral and visual formats.

Suggested activities

  • Writing appropriate and professional emails, using appropriate greetings and avoiding “text-talk.â€
  • Conducting a classroom presentation.
  • Facilitating a student group meeting or practice.
  • Preparing and presenting a 5-10 minute speech with minimal filler words (e.g. um, like, you know).
  • Negotiating and managing conflict with roommates.

Rate where you are on this skill

Basic Intermediate Advanced Expert
Basic

You understand that communication is a process where people use written, oral and visual symbols to co-create meaning and build connections with others.

What this skill looks like in action:

  • Study this skill in a class or training.

At this level, it is appropriate to include this skill on your resume.

You actively engage in a variety of types of communication in academic classes, campus activities or at a part-time job, internship or volunteer role. You use communication to effectively convey ideas and interpret others’ messages with the goal of creating shared meaning and understanding.

What this skill looks like in action:

  • Listen actively and without judgment.
  • Communicate in a clear and organized manner.
  • Engage in public speaking.
  • Write for a variety of audiences.
  • Express and interpret nonverbal cues.

You have dedicated many hours to communicating effectively with others through a variety of mediums, in multiple environments including a work setting. People seek you out because of your ability to navigate delicate situations with people of diverse backgrounds, using complex and respectful communication strategies, in order to help create shared meaning and achieve goals.

What this skill looks like in action:

  • Persuade others to see your perspective.
  • Ask clarifying questions to gather specific information from supervisors, specialists and others.
  • Promptly seek guidance or clarification with assigned tasks when needed.
  • Facilitate groups.
  • Instruct or train others.
  • Provide and receive feedback with grace.
  • Mediate conflict with respect.
  • Debate ideas with respect.
  • Negotiate with others by focusing on areas of agreement.

You have committed hundreds of hours to communicating effectively with others, studying communication theory as well as collaborating with other communication experts. People look to you to teach them about the nuances of effective communication.

What this skill looks like in action:

  • Frame communication with respect to diversity of learning styles, varied individual communication abilities and cultural differences.
  • Continue to learn about this skill through research, graduate studies or by applying it in more advanced and complex work situations.
  • Research specific communication theories and methods tied to workplace goals and desired outcomes.
  • Create resources and train others on clear, effective, inclusive communication that seeks to build community and connection.
  • Communicate articulately, clearly and calmly in high-stakes, high-stress environments.