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