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What are communication skills?
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What are communication skills?
Communication is tough.
It’s something that we all do as humans. But even though we have plenty of communication practice, it’s still a skill that requires a lot of work and effort.
If there’s one thing that we know about bettering ourselves, it’s that we all need feedback. Without feedback on how we’re communicating, we won’t know what areas we need to improve. So when it comes to the workplace, it’s important to give (and receive) feedback to help continue to grow.
Communication skills can be defined as understanding and receiving information well. Communication can come in many forms, from written to verbal to nonverbal communication.
I’m sure we’ve all been in presentations or company meetings where we walk away with awe. “Wow, that person really presented that information well!” or “Sally is a great communicator.”
I recently had a striking reaction to a teammate’s presentation in our company all-hands meeting. My teammate Dr. Erin Eatough presented data, insights, and research on the future-minded leader. After her presentation, our team’s Slack channel blew up with positive feedback about Erin’s delivery and storytelling skills.
Like many other skills in life, communication skills can be a lifelong journey. It takes time, effort, and self-awareness to become a great communicator. But there are feedback levers you can pull to empower great communicators in your organization.
One of the most important skills you can possess in work and in life is good communication. Employees who can communicate effectively are able to listen to others. They’re often able to digest information and relay information in ways that others can understand. Good communicators can relay their own perspectives with skill and grace.
But communication in the workplace isn’t as easy as it seems. According to Gallup, communication is a skill worth investing in:
If you’re struggling to provide effective communication feedback, you’re not alone. And sometimes, it takes a little extra support.
"I have identified growth areas that can help me with my career progression: communication, focus, and the importance of work-life balance."
Employee of a computer technology company, BetterUp Member
Consider BetterUp. With help from a coach, your employees and managers can hone their communication skills.
Use these practical examples of phrases, sample comments, and templates for your performance review, 360-degree feedback survey, or manager appraisal. The following examples not only relate to communication but also to written communication, verbal communication, humor, negotiation skills, informing, and general articulation.
Madeline is a writer, communicator, and storyteller who is passionate about using words to help drive positive change. She holds a bachelor's in English Creative Writing and Communication Studies and lives in Denver, Colorado. In her spare time, she's usually somewhere outside (preferably in the mountains) — and enjoys poetry and fiction.
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