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Competency ModelQuestionnaire Items Measuring Communication Skills
Communication skills are crucial for building relationships and exchanging information. The main components of communication skills include:
- Available: Being available for communication helps ensure you will not miss anything important.
- Attentive: Being attentive ensures you will hear all the details and facts.
- Responsive: Responding to emails, texts, and calls helps communication occur in real time. Asking and answering questions helps information to flow.
- Clarity: Being clear in your communications helps to make sure the messages are understood.
- Succinct: Avoid communicating unnecessary details. Focusing on the relevant information helps individuals to gain a better context for interpretation and use of the information.
- Sharing: It is important not to withhold information. Keeping others informed and up-to-date helps improve decision-making.
- Professionalism: Upholding a professional demeanor ensures that your communication is taken seriously by others.
- Timely: Making sure that your communication is timely ensures that others receive the information exactly when it's most needed.
- Persuasive: Persuading and inspiring others to take action ensures that your messages have a significant impact.
- Presenting: Delivering your message to large audiences helps to guarantee that it reaches the maximum number of individuals.
Effective communication skills are vital to a manager's success as they help to strengthen relationships, ensure the smooth flow of information, aid in decision-making, and influence the organization's outcomes.
360-Degree Feedback Questionnaires Measuring Communication Skills:
Survey 1 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 2 (4-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 3 (5-point scale; Competency Comments)
Survey 4 (5-point scale; radio buttons)
Survey 5 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 6 (4-point scale; words)
Survey 7 (5-point scale; competency comments; N/A)
Survey 8 (3-point scale; Agree/Disagree words; N/A)
Survey 9 (3-point scale; Strength/Development; N/A)
Survey 10 (Comment boxes only)
Survey 11 (Single rating per competency)
Survey 12 (Slide-bar scale)
360-Degree Feedback Questionnaire Items
The Communication Skills competency in a 360-Degree Feedback assessment includes items measuring .
Definition: Communication skills mean being able to adapt your communication to the audience. To be available, attentive, open for feedback, responsive. To be clear, succinct, and effective. To be able to communicate with superiors and to coach subordinates. To share information in a professional and timely manner. To have expertise, energy, and persuasiveness.
Audience Awareness
- Chooses the communication medium (ie. email, voice mail, memo, project document) that reflects the needs of the content. (ie. urgency, confidentiality, content scope)
- Adapts language and terminology to meet the needs of the audience.
- Considers the audience in how the communication is presented.
- Explains complex concepts clearly, using terms/style appropriate for the audience
- Able to use multiple methods of communication.
- Tailors writing to the intended audience.
- Tailors oral communications to the intended audience.
Available
- Sets their on-line status to "available" to indicate they are available for communication.
- Maintains an open-door policy to be available for answers and guidance when needed.
- Approachable, dependable, and ready to assist when needed.
- Keeps an open-door policy to provide support and guidance.
- Keeps open and regular communication with others.
- Marks their status as "available" to signal they are open for communication.
- Visible and approachable; is there when you need them.
- Keeps open and regular communication with team members.
- Is visible and approachable.
Attentive
- Listens to others' points of view with an open mind
- Asks follow-up questions as needed.
- Accurately attends to/understands ideas which are exchanged.
- Listens attentively and responds thoughtfully, showing they value the conversation.
- Listens actively & speaks clearly and directly.
- Listens attentively and without interrupting team members and customers
- Listens carefully.
- Able to understand the core issues of the conversation.
- Takes the time to listen to your side in employer/employee disputes
- Listen and understand
- Takes time to listen to you
- Listens effectively.
- Listens well
Open
- Willing to communicate issues and concerns to colleagues.
- Open to receiving feedback from others.
- Willing to express their concerns to colleagues.
- Faces the person when speaking or listening to engage in direct communication.
- Makes eye contact with the person they are speaking with.
- Maintains eye contact to foster direct communication.
- Welcomes input and suggestions from others.
- Willing to accept feedback from others.
- Articulates ideas and emotions clearly to others.
- Effective in communicating thoughts and feelings to others.
Responsive
- An effective listener who is responsive to information needs.
- Addresses issues of key importance to stakeholders.
- Responds to questions with accurate and complete answers
- Receives and answers questions - on the spot. S/he has a willingness to address the tough questions.
- Listens effectively and responds to new information.
- Takes on challenging questions and provides instant answers.
- Responds to critical concerns of stakeholders.
- Overcomes barriers that prevent effective communication.
- Acknowledges an understanding of what the other person is saying.
- Uses active listening techniques (e.g., paraphrasing, reflecting, open-ended questions) to ensure successful communication
Clarity
- Delivers information in a clear, concise, and logical manner.
- Clarifies problems logically, simplifying complex matters into digestible parts.
- Speaks clearly, fluently, and in a compelling manner to both individuals and groups.
- Articulates ideas clearly and assertively.
- Communicates clearly and get to the point without unnecessary details.
- Presents information in a clear and logical format.
- Communicates a clear understanding of the subject at hand.
- Demonstrates clear verbal and written communication skills
- Reports are clear and persuasive.
- Organizes ideas for better clarity.
- Able to clarify complex or technical information.
- Writes in a clear and concise manner, using appropriate grammar, style, and language for the reader.
- Clarifies words or statements to gain better understanding of the message.
- Communicates clearly and concisely in writing (e.g., professional correspondence is well-organized, to the point, and uses correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar)
- Consistently speaks clearly.
- Communicates project information accurately and clearly.
Succinct
- Makes the complex simple.
- Provides straightforward and brief directions.
- Able to communicate ideas effectively and succinctly to both individuals and groups, in any setting.
- Conveys ideas confidently and succinctly.
- Transforms complicated ideas into simple ones.
- Deconstructs complex issues into understandable segments.
- Delivers clear and concise instructions.
- Produces written content that is both succinct and orderly.
- Presents issues, ideas, and strategy concisely and clearly.
- Expresses ideas clearly and concisely to individuals and groups, in both formal and informal settings
- Focuses communications on the relevant key issues.
- Explains issues logically, breaking down complex issues into manageable pieces of information
- Writes in a concise and organized manner.
Effective
- Communicates effectively with colleagues and customers
- Is an effective communicator
- Communicates effectively with all levels of the organization.
- Effectively and regularly communicates regarding issues that are critical to the team
- Communicates effectively with colleagues.
- Takes steps to prevent interruptions when important issues are being discussed
- Able to effectively prepare and deliver presentations influentially.
- Uses effective non-verbal communication (e.g., eye contact, nodding, gestures, etc.)
- Communicates well
- Communicates effectively.
- Communicates effectively with colleagues and partners.
Communicates With Superiors
- Communicates with department leadership
- Engages in clear communication with both senior and junior management.
- Confidently communicates across all organizational levels, including external stakeholders.
- Informs supervisor about progress made on goals and objectives.
- Effectively engages with everyone from the CEO to external partners.
- Facilitates seamless communication across all management levels.
- Reports progress on goals to the supervisor.
- Has the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from CEO down) of the organization, external customers, suppliers, as well as the senior counsel of other companies.
- Keeps the supervisor informed about achievements and milestones.
- Confidently interacts with all tiers of the organization.
- Communicates effectively with management, both upward and downward.
- Has the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from CEO down) of the organization.
- Communications with college leadership
Coaches Others
- Coaches others and provides feedback on the use of different oral communication styles for different audiences
- Mentors others on enhancing their written communication.
- Conducts impactful training sessions.
- Is willing to give feedback to others even if that feedback is critical of their approach.
- Coaches others on their written communication skills
- Ready to offer feedback, even if it involves tough critiques.
- Delivers influential training.
- Communicates to employees how their jobs/ works/ goals relate to organizational goals.
- Shows employees how their work contributes to the success of the organization.
Confirms Communication
- Checks for understanding throughout conversations or group presentations/discussions
- Summarizes the question to verify comprehension.
- Summarizes or paraphrases the current question to confirm understanding.
- Recaps action steps from meetings to ensure clarity and execution.
- Ensures comprehension during conversations or group presentations.
- Provides followup information and seeks to avoid misunderstandings.
- Verifies understanding throughout discussions.
- Reviews any "action steps" resulting from meetings or conversations before concluding to ensure clarity and that plans will be executed
- Checks for understanding throughout conversations or group discussions
Communicates Goals/Vision
- Communicates the vision of the organization to all employees.
- Communicates goals of project, resources required, resources available, etc. to the team
- Communicates Corporate initiatives in a relevant and actionable manner to employees within his/her organization.
- Communicates progress on business goals to team and upper management
- Writes appropriately within organizational guidelines and values.
- Lets people know what is expected of them.
Sharing
- Notifies others about developments in plans and goals.
- Communicates concepts and ideas to others.
- Informs others about changes or developments in plans and goals.
- Communicates crucial information to others.
- Provides the reasoning behind choices and actions.
- Updates others on changes or progress in plans and goals.
- Shares important information with others.
- Discusses ideas and concepts with peers.
- Explains reasons behind decisions and actions.
- Shares concepts and ideas with others.
Professionalism
- Is professional at all times--never ridiculing, mocking or undermining peers or subordinates.
- Presents their message with professionalism.
- Maintains a formal and respectful tone, avoiding use of slang or overly casual language.
- Uses polite language and shows respect for others' opinions and time.
- Maintains self-control in conversations.
- Maintains good contact with others when speaking.
Timely
- Responds in a timely manner, respecting deadlines and others' schedules.
- Communicates changes to team members in a timely manner
- Communicates company/market changes to appropriate team members in a timely manner
Expertise/Competence
- Uses software, graphics, or other aids to clarify complex or technical reports.
- Deals with difficult situations calmly and confidently.
- Supports communication systems recently implemented.
- Delivers difficult messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner
- Delivers difficult/sensitive messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner
- Prepares effective external communications, using basic familiarity of legal requirements and limitations
- Uses correct spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Energetic
- Delivers messages with energy, enthusiasm, and conviction.
- Delivers messages with personal energy, enthusiasm, and conviction.
- Conveys priorities with right sense of urgency and importance.
Persuasive
- Persuasive and articulate when communicating.
- Uses ideas and perspectives to persuade others.
- Inspires others to take action based on his/her communications
- Able to demonstrate persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives.
- Is an effective and motivating communicator.
- Demonstrates persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives.
Presentations
- Able to deliver presentations.
- Comes across as comfortable and effective as a public speaker
- Presents clear and persuasive information in reports.
- Prepares and delivers presentations.
- Delivers effective presentations.
- Delivers influential presentations.
- Delivers well-prepared, informed, poised and succinct presentations.
- Delivers effective public presentations.
- Gives clear and convincing presentations.
- Can effectively deliver presentations.
- Effectively delivers presentations to teams, large groups, and diverse audiences
- Prepares and delivers effective presentations that are influential.
Performance Feedback
- Conducts regular performance feedback discussions with individuals and teams
- Implements performance appraisals focused on employee development using SMART criteria
- Writes complete and developmentally-oriented performance appraisals with clear goals, using SMART criteria
- Provides feedback in a helpful and respectful way, focusing on improvement.
Employee Opinion Survey Items
Effective communication skills empower employees to collaborate efficiently, make well-informed decisions, and significantly contribute to the company's profitability.
Communication from Leadership
- My Supervisor has excellent communication skills
- Managers communicate frequently and honestly about issues affecting employees
- Senior management communicates well with the rest of the organization
Available
- My supervisor keeps open and regular communication with others.
- The team leader keeps open and regular communication with team members.
- The manager is visible and approachable; is there when you need them.
- My supervisor is visible and approachable.
- My supervisor is approachable, dependable, and ready to assist when needed.
- Associates will mark their status as "available" to signal they are open for communication.
- The manager keeps an open-door policy to provide support and guidance.
- My Manager is available to me when I have questions or need help
- Sales reps set their on-line status to "available" to indicate they are available for communication.
Attentive
- People in my department listen carefully.
- HR Managers will listen to both side in employer/employee disputes
- The team leader listens attentively and without interrupting to team members and customers
- My Supervisor attentively listens to me
- The manager takes the time to listen to you
- My supervisor listens actively & speaks clearly and directly.
- I feel the manager accurately attends to/understands ideas which are exchanged.
- Senior leaders listen attentively and responds thoughtfully, showing they value the conversation.
- At our company, people listen to others' points of view with an open mind
- Coworkers will ask follow-up questions as needed.
- Co-Workers are willing to listen to my ideas
- My Supervisor listens to me
Open
- Employees are willing to communicate issues and concerns
- I actively seek feedback from colleagues and customers about my work.
- In our department, people know how to face the person when speaking or listening to engage in direct communication
- Managers are open to receiving feedback from others
- My supervisor welcomes input and suggestions from others
- My supervisor takes the time to makes eye contact with the person they are speaking with
- Colleagues are generally willing to accept feedback from others
- I feel my manager articulates ideas and emotions clearly to others
- Leaders and managers use face-to-face contact.
- I am able to communicate freely with any employee
- My Supervisor is willing to listen to my ideas
- In our department, colleagues are effective in communicating thoughts and feelings to others
Responsive
- We regularly address issues of key importance to stakeholders
- I believe I am an effective listener who is responsive to information needs
- I can get the information I need to do my job
- My manager courageously takes on challenging questions and provides instant answers
- My manager is able to quickly respond with answers to questions on the spot
- The Benefits Department responds to questions with accurate and complete answers
- People in my department are responsive and acknowledge an understanding of what the other person is saying
- My manager listens carefully and responds to new information
Clarity
- Decisions are clear and are communicated effectively organization-wide.
- My manager has the technical skills to be able to clarify complex or technical information
- The shift lead communicates clearly and get to the point without unnecessary details
- The reports our department generates are clear and persuasive
- The project supervisor communicates project information accurately and clearly
- I am comfortable clarifying problems logically, simplifying complex matters into digestible parts
- My supervisor articulates ideas clearly and assertively
- Senior leaders are able to present information in a clear and logical format
- The team leader communicates a clear understanding of the subject at hand
- My manager demonstrates clear verbal and written communication skills
Succinct
- Leaders in our department convey ideas confidently and succinctly
- The supervisor delivers clear and concise instructions regarding use of the equipment
- The manager provides straightforward and brief directions
- My supercisor explains issues logically, breaking down complex issues into manageable pieces of information
- I can write reports in a concise and organized manner
- People in our department produce written content that is both succinct and orderly
- In our department, we focus communications on the relevant key issues
- My manager is able to communicate ideas effectively and succinctly to both individuals and groups, in any setting
- Leadership expresses ideas clearly and concisely to individuals and groups, in both formal and informal settings
Effective
- My manager communicates effectively with all levels of the organization
- Employees in our department communicate effectively
- My coworkers communicate effectively with colleagues and customers
- Meetings are usually chaired by competent and articulate individuals who can effectively communicate ideas and information
- Communication is good between departments.
- I take steps to prevent interruptions when important issues are being discussed
- My team communicates effectively with others
- I can communicate effectively with colleagues
- I know how to effectively use non-verbal communication (e.g., eye contact, nodding, gestures, etc.)
- I am comfortable communicating with colleagues and partners
- I believe my manager is an effective communicator
- My supervisor communicates well
- The team leader effectively and regularly communicates regarding issues that are critical to the team
- Leadership at Company communicates well with employees
- I am satisfied with the information I receive from Managers on what's going on in the Company
- There is good communication between departments.
- There are no barriers to open and efficient communication
Communicates With Superiors
- I can speak freely to my supervisor on a variety of topics
- There is good communication between me and my supervisor
- I know how to communicates effectively with management, both upward and downward
- I can confidently interact with all tiers of the organization
- I have the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from CEO down) of the organization
- People in my department generally engage in clear communication with both senior and junior management
- I report progress on goals to the supervisor
- I am comfortable communicating with department leadership
- I try to keep the supervisor informed about achievements and milestones
- My Supervisor works to improve communications in all directions
- I feel confident in communicating across all organizational levels, including external stakeholders
- The culture of our organization facilitates seamless communication across all management levels
- Leadership at Company communicates freely with employees.
- I am satisfied with my manager's communication and interpersonal skills.
- My Supervisor keeps me informed about important issues
Coaches Others
- I feel my manager is able to coach others and provide feedback on the use of different oral communication styles for different audiences
- HR delivers influential training
- Supervisors mentor others on enhancing their written communication
- I feel ready to offer feedback, even if it involves tough critiques
- Managers communicate to employees how their jobs/ works/ goals relate to organizational goals
- I feel comfortable giving feedback to others even if that feedback is critical of their approach
- Branch managers coach others on their written communication skills
- The HR Department conducts impactful training sessions
- Managers show employees how their work contributes to the success of the organization
Confirms Communication
- When in Q&A, our manager summarizes or paraphrases the current question to confirm understanding
- The supervisor verifies understanding throughout discussions
- My manager provides followup information and seeks to avoid misunderstandings
- The project manager reviews any "action steps" resulting from meetings or conversations before concluding to ensure clarity and that plans will be executed
- The team leader recaps action steps from meetings to ensure clarity and execution
Internal Communications
- I regularly read the Company newsletter and other publications
- The internal communication I receive through road shows, e-mails and newsletters about the direction and successes of the business is effective
Communicates Goals/Vision
- CompanyName does a good job communicating business objectives.
- I feel well informed about company goals and strategic directions.
- Managers communicate a clear sense of direction for my organization.
- Goals, objectives, and strategies are clearly communicated.
- Our manager communicates Corporate initiatives in a relevant and actionable manner to employees in the department
- The company directors give staff a clear picture of the direction in which the Company is headed
- Our senior leaders establish a clear direction for the company.
- I can see the link between my work and the Company's objectives
- I can clearly explain the business objectives of my local function or business unit to others
Sharing
- Information and knowledge are freely shared at the Company
- The company does an excellent job communicating changes or decisions that affect employees.
- My manager does a good job of sharing information.
- My Supervisor does a good job sharing information with me
- Employees at the Company regularly share and exchange ideas
- Managers keep me informed and up-to-date
- Co-workers share information and new ideas throughout the company
- Financial and quality performance reports are shared with employees.
Professionalism
- My manager is professional at all times--never ridiculing, mocking or undermining peers or subordinates.
- My manager is professional at all times--never ridiculing, mocking or undermining peers or subordinates
- Colleagues use polite language and shows respect for others' opinions and time
- Everyone in our department maintains good contact with others when speaking
- My supervisor maintains self-control in conversations
- People in our department maintain a formal and respectful tone, avoiding use of slang or overly casual language
Timely
- Communications about changes are sent to team members in a timely manner
- Managers rspond in a timely manner, respecting deadlines and others' schedules
- Company communications keep me up-to-date.
- The team lead communicates company/market changes to appropriate team members in a timely manner
- The team leader communicates changes to team members in a timely manner
- I usually know in plenty of time when important things happen.
- Senior Management at Company communicates at an appropriate frequency with employees.
- Leadership at the Company communicates frequently with employees
Expertise/Competence
- Exhibits competence by communicating calmly and confidently in difficult situations.
- People in my department are comfortable using software, graphics, or other aids to clarify complex or technical reports
- I feel supervisors deliver difficult/sensitive messages to my co-workers in an appropriate manner
- The team leader is able to deliver difficult messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner
- The department head supports communication systems recently implemented
- Coworkers use correct spelling, grammar and punctuation
- I am comfortable delivering difficult messages to superiors and subordinates.
- My manager deals with difficult situations calmly and confidently
Energetic
- The supervisor delivers messages with personal energy, enthusiasm, and conviction
- Senior leadership delivers messages with energy, enthusiasm, and conviction
- My manager is able to deliver messages with energy, enthusiasm, and conviction.
- My manager conveys priorities with right sense of urgency and importance
Persuasive
- The team leader demonstrates persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives
- My Supervisor is a skilled negotiator
- The supervisor is an effective and motivating communicator
- My manager uses ideas and perspectives to persuade others
- The project lead is able to demonstrate persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives
- My manager inspires others to take action based on his/her communications
- I feel that I am persuasive and articulate when communicating
Presentations
- My boss gives clear and convincing presentations
- My manager delivers effective presentations
- Leaders here come across as comfortable and effective as a public speakers
- Leadership here is effective in delivering presentations to teams, large groups, and diverse audiences
- I feel that I am able to deliver effective presentations
- My colleagues deliver influential presentations
- Employees in my department present clear and persuasive information in reports
- The project head delivers well-prepared, informed, poised and succinct presentations
- I can effectively deliver presentations
- I know how to deliver effective public presentations
Performance Feedback
- I am comfortable giving feedback to others.
- The supervisor implements performance appraisals focused on employee development using SMART criteria
- My manager conducts regular performance feedback discussions with individuals and teams
- I can write complete and developmentally-oriented performance appraisals with clear goals, using SMART criteria
- I am comfortable providing feedback in a helpful and respectful way, focusing on improvement
Self-Assessment Items
Audience Awareness
- You choose the communication medium (ie. email, voice mail, memo, project document) that reflects the needs of the content. (ie. urgency, confidentiality, content scope)
- You consider the audience in how the communication is presented.
- I adapt language and terminology to meet the needs of the audience.
- You are able to use multiple methods of communication.
- You tailor oral communications to the intended audience.
- You explain complex concepts clearly, using terms/style appropriate for the audience
- You tailor writing to the intended audience.
Available
- I keep an open-door policy to provide support and guidance.
- I mark my status as "available" to signal I am open for communication.
- You are visible and approachable; is there when others are in need.
- I maintain an open-door policy to be available for answers and guidance when needed.
- I am approachable, dependable, and ready to assist when needed.
- I set the on-line status to "available" to indicate they are available for communication.
- You keep open and regular communication with others.
- You keep open and regular communication with team members.
- You are visible and approachable.
Attentive
- You listen to others' points of view with an open mind
- You listen attentively and without interrupting team members and customers
- You listen actively & speaks clearly and directly.
- You ask follow-up questions as needed.
- You accurately attends to/understands ideas which are exchanged.
- I listen attentively and respond thoughtfully, showing I value the conversation.
- You are listening to both sides in employer/employee disputes
- You are able to understand the core issues of the conversation.
- You listen carefully.
- You listen and understand
- You take time to listen to others
- You listen effectively.
- You listen well
Open
- I welcome input and suggestions from others.
- I am open to receiving feedback from others.
- I make eye contact with the person I am speaking with.
- I articulate ideas and emotions clearly to others.
- I face the person when speaking or listening to engage in direct communication.
- I am willing to accept feedback from others.
- I am willing to express my concerns to colleagues.
- I maintain eye contact to foster direct communication.
- I am willing to communicate issues and concerns to colleagues.
- You are effective in communicating thoughts and feelings to others.
Responsive
- You an effective listener who is responsive to information needs.
- You respond to questions with accurate and complete answers
- You address issues of key importance to stakeholders.
- I take on challenging questions and provide instant answers.
- You receive and answer questions - on the spot and have a willingness to address the tough questions.
- I listen effectively and respond to new information.
- I respond to critical concerns of stakeholders.
- You overcome barriers that prevent effective communication.
- You use active listening techniques (e.g., paraphrasing, reflecting, open-ended questions) to ensure successful communication
- You acknowledge an understanding of what the other person is saying.
Clarity
- I communicate clearly and get to the point without unnecessary details.
- I clarify problems logically, simplifying complex matters into digestible parts.
- You present information in a clear and logical format.
- I articulate ideas clearly and assertively.
- You speak clearly, fluently, and in a compelling manner to both individuals and groups.
- You deliver information in a clear, concise, and logical manner.
- You demonstrate clear verbal and written communication skills
- You communicate a clear understanding of the subject at hand.
- You create reports that are clear and persuasive.
- You organize ideas for better clarity.
- You write in a clear and concise manner, using appropriate grammar, style, and language for the reader.
- You consistently speak clearly.
- You communicate clearly and concisely in writing (e.g., professional correspondence is well-organized, to the point, and uses correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar)
- You are able to clarify complex or technical information.
- You clarify words or statements to gain better understanding of the message.
- You communicate project information accurately and clearly.
Succinct
- You deliver clear and concise instructions.
- I produce written content that is both succinct and orderly.
- I am able to communicate ideas effectively and succinctly to both individuals and groups, in any setting.
- You convey ideas confidently and succinctly.
- I provide straightforward and brief directions.
- I deconstruct complex issues into understandable segments.
- You present issues, ideas, and strategy concisely and clearly.
- You make the complex simple.
- I transform complicated ideas into simple ones.
- You explain issues logically, breaking down complex issues into manageable pieces of information
- You express ideas clearly and concisely to individuals and groups, in both formal and informal settings
- You focus communications on the relevant key issues.
- You write in a concise and organized manner.
Effective
- You communicate effectively with colleagues and customers
- You communicate effectively with all levels of the organization.
- You are an effective communicator
- You effectively and regularly communicate regarding issues that are critical to the team
- You are able to effectively prepare and deliver presentations influentially.
- You use effective non-verbal communication (e.g., eye contact, nodding, gestures, etc.)
- You take steps to prevent interruptions when important issues are being discussed
- You communicate effectively with colleagues.
- You communicate well
- You communicate effectively.
- You communicate effectively with colleagues and partners.
Communicates With Superiors
- You communicate with department leadership
- I confidently interact with all tiers of the organization.
- I report progress on goals to the supervisor.
- I facilitate seamless communication across all management levels.
- I keep my supervisor informed about achievements and milestones.
- I confidently communicate across all organizational levels, including external stakeholders.
- I engage in clear communication with both senior and junior management.
- I effectively engage with everyone from the CEO to external partners.
- You inform supervisor about progress made on goals and objectives.
- You have the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from ceo down) of the organization, external customers, suppliers, as well as the senior counsel of other companies.
- You communicate effectively with management, both upward and downward.
- You have the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from ceo down) of the organization.
- You communicate with college leadership
Coaches Others
- You coach others and provides feedback on the use of different oral communication styles for different audiences
- I am ready to offer feedback, even if it involves tough critiques.
- I mentor others on enhancing their written communication.
- You are willing to give feedback to others even if that feedback is critical of their approach.
- I conduct impactful training sessions.
- You coach others on their written communication skills
- You deliver influential training.
- You communicate to employees how their jobs/ works/ goals relate to organizational goals.
- You show employees how their work contributes to the success of the organization.
Confirms Communication
- You check for understanding throughout conversations or group presentations/discussions
- You summarize or paraphrase the current question to confirm understanding.
- You provide followup information and seek to avoid misunderstandings.
- I ensure comprehension during conversations or group presentations.
- I verify understanding throughout discussions.
- I summarize the question to verify comprehension.
- I recap action steps from meetings to ensure clarity and execution.
- You review any "action steps" resulting from meetings or conversations before concluding to ensure clarity and that plans will be executed
- You check for understanding throughout conversations or group discussions
Communicates Goals/Vision
- You communicate Corporate initiatives in a relevant and actionable manner to employees within your organization.
- You communicate goals of project, resources required, resources available, etc. to the team
- You communicate the vision of the organization to all employees.
- You write appropriately within organizational guidelines and values.
- You communicate progress on business goals to team and upper management
- You let people know what is expected of them.
Sharing
- I discuss ideas and concepts with peers.
- You share important information with others.
- I update others on changes or progress in plans and goals.
- I notify others about developments in plans and goals.
- I communicate crucial information to others.
- I communicate concepts and ideas to others.
- I provide the reasoning behind choices and actions.
- You inform others about changes or developments in plans and goals.
- You explain reasons behind decisions and actions.
- You share concepts and ideas with others.
Professionalism
- You are professional at all times--never ridiculing, mocking or undermining peers or subordinates.
- You present your message with professionalism.
- I maintain a formal and respectful tone, avoid using of slang or overly casual language.
- I use polite language and show respect for others' opinions and time.
- You maintain self-control in conversations.
- You maintain good contact with others when speaking.
Timely
- I respond in a timely manner, respecting deadlines and others' schedules.
- You communicate changes to team members in a timely manner
- You communicate company/market changes to appropriate team members in a timely manner
Expertise/Competence
- You use software, graphics, or other aids to clarify complex or technical reports.
- You deliver difficult/sensitive messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner
- You deliver difficult messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner
- You deal with difficult situations calmly and confidently.
- You prepare effective external communications, using basic familiarity of legal requirements and limitations
- You support communication systems recently implemented.
- You use correct spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Energetic
- You deliver messages with energy, enthusiasm, and conviction.
- You deliver messages with personal energy, enthusiasm, and conviction.
- You convey priorities with right sense of urgency and importance.
Persuasive
- You are persuasive and articulate when communicating.
- You use ideas and perspectives to persuade others.
- You are an effective and motivating communicator.
- You are able to demonstrate persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives.
- You inspire others to take action based on your communications
- You demonstrate persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives.
Presentations
- You are able to deliver presentations.
- You give clear and convincing presentations.
- You prepare and deliver presentations.
- You come across as comfortable and effective as a public speaker
- You can effectively deliver presentations.
- You effectively deliver presentations to teams, large groups, and diverse audiences
- You present clear and persuasive information in reports.
- You deliver influential presentations.
- You deliver effective presentations.
- You deliver well-prepared, informed, poised and succinct presentations.
- You deliver effective public presentations.
- You prepare and deliver effective presentations that are influential.
Performance Feedback
- You write complete and developmentally-oriented performance appraisals with clear goals, using SMART criteria
- You conduct regular performance feedback discussions with individuals and teams
- You implement performance appraisals focused on employee development using SMART criteria
- I provide feedback in a helpful and respectful way, focusing on improvement.
Job Interview Questions
Audience Awareness
- Being aware of the audience you are communicating with is important. How do you adapt language and terminology to meet the needs of the audience?
- It is important to be flexible in our communication methods. Describe how you use different methods of communication depending on the audience?
- Explain how you would consider the audience in how the communication is presented.
- Describe how you would tailor writing to the intended audience.
- Explaining complex concepts clearly can be a challenge. How do you use terms/style appropriate for the audience?
- Describe how you choose the communication medium (ie. email, voice mail, memo, project document) that reflects the needs of the content. (ie. urgency, confidentiality, content scope).
- How do you tailor oral communications to the intended audience?
Available
- Describe how you are approachable, dependable, and ready to assist when needed.
- Do you try to be visible and approachable?
- Would others describe you as visible and approachable; is there when needed?
- How do you keep an open-door policy to provide support and guidance?
- Maintaining communication with team members is important. How do you keep open and regular communication with team members?
- What steps do you take to mark your status as "available" to signal you are open for communication?
- Describe how you keep open and regular communication with others.
- Do you regularly sets your on-line status to "available" to indicate you are available for communication?
- Explain how you maintain an open-door policy to be available for answers and guidance when needed.
Attentive
- Do you feel you are able to understand the core issues of conversations?
- Do you listen carefully? If so, give an example.
- It is important to avoid interrupting the customer when they are speaking. Give and example of when you listened attentively without interrupting customers.
- Showing others that you value their conversation is important. Give examples of when you listened attentively and responded thoughtfully.
- Describe how you would listen to others' points of view with an open mind.
- Do you listen well?
- Give examples of when you asked follow-up questions as needed.
- Give an example of when you took the time to listen to both sides in employer/employee disputes.
- This is a customer service position. Do you listen actively & speak clearly and directly?
Open
- Communicating ideas is important. Describe how you articulated ideas clearly to others?
- Give an example of when you welcomed input and suggestions from others.
- Would you colleagues say that you are willing to accept feedback from others?
- Give an example of when you communicated issues and concerns to colleagues.
- Have you ever had to express your concerns to colleagues?
- Building a raport with clients is important. Do you make eye contact with the person you are speaking with?
- Are you open to receiving feedback from others?
- Maintaining strong interpersonal skills is critical for this position. Give a brief example of how you communicated thoughts or feelings to others.
Responsive
- Letting the other person know that you understand them is important. When have you acknowledged an understanding of what another person was saying?
- Are you an effective listener who is responsive to information needs?
- Sometimes you may be asked to respond to something outside of your area of knowledge or expertise. Describe how you would respond to those questions with accurate and complete answers.
- Sometimes there are barriers to effective communication (e.g., technical, procedural) Describe when you overcame barriers that prevent effective communication? What did you do? How did you work around the issue?
- This position requires you to think fast. Do you feel you are ready to take on challenging questions and provide instant answers?
- Do you receive and answer questions - on the spot. Are you willing to address the tough questions?
- How do you respond to critical concerns of stakeholders?
- Have you had to address issues of key importance to stakeholders?
- Describe a recent situation in which you used active listening techniques (e.g., paraphrasing, reflecting, open-ended questions) to ensure successful communication.
- Describe a recent situation when you listened effectively and responded to that new information.
Clarity
- Do you writes in a clear and concise manner, using appropriate grammar, style, and language for the reader?
- Give an example that show that you can demonstrate clear verbal and written communication skills.
- Do you deliver information in a clear, concise, and logical manner?
- Would others say that you regularly speak clearly, fluently, and in a compelling manner to both individuals and groups?
- Do you consistently speak clearly?
- Are your reports clear and persuasive? Elaborate.
- Describe when you have had to clarify complex or technical information.
- How do you ensure that the communication of project information is accurate and clear?
- Describe something that you had to communicate clearly and get to the point without unnecessary details.
- Professionalism is important. Describe how you communicate clearly and concisely in writing (e.g., professional correspondence is well-organized, to the point, and uses correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar).
- Describe when you had to present information in a clear and logical format.
- Describe when you have had to clarify words or statements to gain better understanding of the message.
- As a leader it is important to be confident and speak clearly. Describe when you have had to articulate ideas clearly and assertively.
- How do you clarifies problems logically, simplifying complex matters into digestible parts?
Succinct
- How do you deliver clear and concise instructions?
- How do you transform complicated ideas into simple ones?
- How do you express ideas clearly and concisely to individuals and groups, in both formal and informal settings?
- Staying on point is important when there are so many moving parts. Describe a recent situation in which you had to focus communications on the relevant key issues?
- Describe how you would explain issues logically, breaking down complex issues into manageable pieces of information.
- How do you deconstruct complex issues into more understandable segments?
- Describe when you made complex ideas simple for people to more readily understand?
- Explain how you would write in a concise and organized manner.
- Give examples of when you conveyed ideas confidently and succinctly.
- Explain how you provide straightforward and brief directions.
- Are you able to communicate ideas effectively and succinctly to both individuals and groups, in any setting? Give examples.
- Give examples of when you produced written content that was both succinct and orderly.
- Give an example of when you presented issues, ideas, and strategy concisely and clearly.
Effective
- What steps do you take to prevent interruptions when important issues are being discussed? (turn phone off? change status to busy?)
- Are you an effective communicator? Give examples.
- Would your colleagues say that you communicate effectively with them?
- As a team leader, keeping the team informed is important. How effectively and regularly do you communicate to the team the issues that are critical to them?
- How do you communicate effectively with all levels of the organization?
- Do you communicate effectively with colleagues and customers?
- Are you able to effectively prepare and deliver presentations? Are they influential?
Communicates with Supervisors
- How do you currently report progress on goals to the supervisor?
- It is important to interact with all tiers of the organization. Give examples of when you did this.
- Give examples of how you communicate effectively with management. Both upward and downward.
- Do you confidently communicate across all organizational levels, including external stakeholders?
- Do you keep your supervisor informed about achievements and milestones?
- Describe how you would facilitate seamless communication across all management levels.
- Do you have the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from CEO down) of the organization, external customers, suppliers, as well as the senior counsel of other companies?
- Do you have the confidence to communicate effectively to all levels (from CEO down) of the organization?
- Do you engage in clear communication with both senior and junior management?
- When have you recently had to communicate with department leadership?
- How do you inform your supervisor about progress made on goals and objectives?
- Can you effectively engage with everyone from the CEO to external partners?
Coaches Others
- Do you conduct impactful training sessions? Explain.
- When have you had to mentor others on enhancing their written communication?
- When have you shown employees how their work contributed to the success of the organization?
- Are you willing to give feedback to others even if that feedback is critical of their approach? Explain.
- Are you ready to offer feedback, even if it involves tough critiques?
- How would you deliver influential training?
- Do you coach others on their written communication skills?
Confirms Communication
- Have you reviewed any "action steps" resulting from meetings or conversations before concluding the meeting to ensure clarity and that plans would be executed?
- Explain how you would summarize or paraphrase the current question to confirm understanding?
- Do you check for understanding throughout conversations or group discussions?
- Give examples of when you checked for understanding throughout conversations or group presentations/discussions.
- Give an example of when you provided follow-up information to avoid misunderstandings.
- In question and answer sessions, do you summarize the question to verify comprehension?
- How do you ensure comprehension during conversations or group presentations?
- Do you regularly recap action steps from meetings to ensure clarity and execution?
Communicates Goals/Vision
- Give an example of when you had to communicate corporate initiatives in a relevant and actionable manner to employees within your organization.
- How do you let people know what is expected of them?
- How do you communicate progress on business goals to team and upper management.
- Describe how you communicate goals of project, resources required, resources available, etc. to the team?
- How would you communicate the vision of the organization to all employees?
Sharing
- Give an example of when you notified others about developments in plans and goals.
- Describe how you would provide the reasoning behind choices and actions? Under what circumstances?
- How do you shares concepts and ideas with others?
- Describe when you had to update others on changes or progress in plans and goals.
- Explain how you would communicate crucial information to others.
- Describe a recent situation in which you had to share important information with others.
- Give an example of when you recently communicated concepts and ideas to others.
- How would you explain reasons behind decisions and actions?
- How do you inform others about changes or developments in plans and goals?
- Have you had to discuss ideas and concepts with peers?
Professionalism
- Describe when you recently presented a message with professionalism.
- Do you always maintain self-control in conversations?
- How do you maintain good contact with others when speaking?
- Do you always use polite language and shows respect for others' opinions and time?
- Do you always maintain a formal and respectful tone, avoiding use of slang or overly casual language?
- It is important to be professional at all times. Have you ever been accused of ridiculing, mocking or undermining peers or subordinates?
Timely
- Do you communicate company/market changes to appropriate team members in a timely manner?
- Give an example of when you communicated changes to team members in a timely manner.
- How do you respond in a timely manner, respecting deadlines and others' schedules?
Expertise/Competence
- Explain how you supported the communication systems recently implemented.
- Give an example of when you prepared effective external communications, using basic familiarity of legal requirements and limitations?
- How do you deal with difficult situations calmly and confidently?
- How do you deliver difficult/sensitive messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner?
- Do you use software, graphics, or other aids to clarify complex or technical reports?
- How would you deliver difficult messages to co-workers in an appropriate manner?
Energetic
- Do you deliver messages with personal energy, enthusiasm, and conviction?
- How do you convey priorities with right sense of urgency and importance?
- Describe a situation in which you recently delivered messages with energy, enthusiasm, and conviction.
Persuasive
- Would others describe you as effective and motivating communicator?
- Describe how you inspires others to take action based on his/her communications.
- Describe how you are persuasive and articulate when communicating.
- Are you able to demonstrate persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives?
- How do you use ideas and perspectives to persuade others?
- How do you demonstrates persuasiveness in pursuit of objectives?
Presentations
- How do you effectively deliver presentations to teams, large groups, and diverse audiences?
- How do you prepare and deliver effective presentations that are influential?
- How do you deliver well-prepared, informed, poised and succinct presentations?
- Reports are used extensively in our department. Do you present clear and persuasive information in reports? Explain.
- Would others say that you come across as comfortable and effective as a public speaker?
- Do you deliver effective presentations?
- Do you deliver influential presentations?
- Do you deliver effective public presentations?
- Explain how you would give clear and convincing presentations.
- Can you deliver effectively presentations?
- How do you prepare and deliver presentations?
- Are you able to deliver presentations?
Performance Feedback
- Explain how you would write complete and developmentally-oriented performance appraisals with clear goals, using SMART criteria?
- Give an example of how you would provide feedback in a helpful and respectful way, focusing on improvement.
- Do you conduct regular performance feedback discussions with individuals and teams?
- How would you implement performance appraisals focused on employee development using SMART criteria?