How Would You Describe Your Communication Skills? 5 Sample Answers

Communication abilities. The phrase can have a variety of meanings, but nearly every employer will include them in the profile of an ideal job candidate. How should you describe your communication abilities in an interview? And should you modify your response based on the job you’re applying for?

This article will attempt to provide answers, beginning with sample responses to the question. Some of the below responses are suitable for variants of this question, such as “What is your communication style?” or “How would you rate your communication skills?” Enjoy!

What Would You Say About Your Communication Abilities? Five Sample Answers

Five examples of answers to the “How would you describe your communication skills?”

Example Answer 1

I would describe myself first and foremost as a great listener. Life has taught me that in both personal and professional relationships, it is more important to listen than to speak. To comprehend one’s colleagues, customers, and business partners, one must listen. And only when we understand them and their needs can we deliver an excellent speech, whether it be a negotiation, sales pitch, problem description, or anything else.

Example Answer 2

Based on my previous experiences, I would say that my communication skills are excellent. I have never had a problem explaining things to my coworkers, leading meetings at work, hearing constructive criticism, or dealing with rejection. Indeed, we should never be entirely content and always strive to improve our communication skills, as they are essential for every successful manager. However, I would rate my communication abilities as excellent.

Example Answer 3

Sincerely, I need to improve my communication skills significantly. Too often, people outside the accounting department do not understand what I am saying because I use too much professional jargon. However, I am aware of my weakness and endeavor to eradicate it. I am aware that my communication style prevents me from connecting with certain coworkers, and I intend to modify it for my new position. That is the objective, without a doubt.

Example Answer 4

I believe that my words can motivate others. I have a great understanding of other people’s needs and desires, and I can typically find the appropriate words for every situation. Whether it is a conflict, a motivational crisis, or a routine daily team meeting, I know what to say to the people. At least, that is my impression, but learning is an ongoing process. I can find myself in situations where I am at a loss for words. If it occurs, I will attempt to gain insight from it.

Example Answer 5

I believe it would be preferable to inquire with my former coworkers, subordinates, and superiors. I had the impression that we got along very well. We did not have many conflicts, and when they did arise, they were quickly resolved. I always made an effort to comprehend my colleagues’ perspectives and expectations. Perhaps this helped me to find the appropriate words in nearly every situation. As stated, this is merely my opinion. It would be preferable if you directly questioned my coworkers about my communication skills.

The Holy Grail of communication is good listening skills

Listening skills are essential for any position, including secretary, manager, programmer, teacher, sales representative, nanny, or any other position. You will always say something an employer wants to hear when you describe yourself as a good listener.

Remember that your words (your self-description) should align with the impression you make on hiring managers. For instance, if you struggle to stay on topic, ask interviewers to repeat their questions, forget something and ask about it twice, or interrupt them in the middle of a sentence, they will have no reason to believe what you say (about your excellent listening skills).

In an interview, it is more critical to demonstrate excellent listening skills than to boast about them. Keep it in mind, and try to focus on what your interviewers are saying.

For managerial positions, the ability to issue precise orders is crucial

When you have subordinates at work, you must be able to provide them with daily instructions that are clear. Unless individuals comprehend your expectations of them, they will be unable to carry out your directives.

Your ability to explain complex concepts, or in a common language if you prefer, is crucial in this situation. Again, the key is to say the right thing (when they ask you to describe your communication skills) and demonstrate it through appropriate interview behavior and communication.

For instance, you should avoid jargon and lengthy sentences. If you want to persuade hiring managers that your future coworkers will comprehend your instructions, you must communicate with clarity.

This is not the only difficult question you will be asked during an interview for a decent (or excellent) job. You will be asked about prioritization, dealing with pressure and ambiguity, and other challenging workplace situations.

Take a look at our Interview Success Package if you want to ensure that your answers stand out and that you surpass your competitors. Up to ten premium answers to 31 challenging scenario-based questions and more will help you streamline your interview preparation, outperform your competition, and ultimately land the job. Check out some sample responses on the product page to determine for yourself. Thank you!

Particularly when evaluating your communication skills, modesty can be a huge asset.

One of the undervalued interview strategies (for job seekers) is to provide modest responses. Consider for a moment that most interviewers are able to assess your communication skills, determining whether you are a good listener, speak to the point, and give clear instructions to others. They need not directly inquire about your communication abilities.

However, they may continue to do so for various reasons. If you come up with a modest response, stating that you could actually improve your communication skills (or a specific skill), and then surprise them with your actual level of communication skills (as you answer one question after another), you can easily win them over with your modest approach and desire to constantly improve.

Should you tailor your response to the specific interview?

You can absolutely make some modifications. For instance, comprehending a customer’s needs and translating them into an effective sales pitch is essential for every sales manager, account executive, and sales professional. All teachers, tutors, coaches, and trainers should be able to speak in an engaging manner that piques the audience’s genuine interest in their subject matter.

However, you can always rely on listening skills if you are uncertain about which skills are essential for a particular position because excellent listening skills will assist you in any occupation (and in your personal life).

Conclusion, next steps

Everyone can brag about their communication skills and other abilities. Indeed, an excellent response to the interview question “How would you describe your communication skills?” can be beneficial. The most crucial factor is whether you can back up your claims with your actions and reactions.

Try to pay close attention to each interview question. They should not be interrupted in the middle of a sentence. Maintain eye contact and try to speak directly to the point. Avoid using jargon, urban slang, and other terms that your interviewers may not understand. And don’t forget about your tone of voice; it should have some energy and enthusiasm.

Once you have accomplished these things in an interview, they will have no reason to question your exceptional communication skills. That should be your final objective.

Complete your interview preparations by examining other questions and answers;

Athina Iliadis is a Human Resources Professional with over 25 years’ experience in corporate environments working for companies such as Pearson, LexisNexis, Hershey, and Reckitt. In her current role as a consultant working with clients around the world, she coaches managers and employees on HR issues, supports leaders in their business, produces content about careers, interviews, and job opportunities. She is fluent in English, French and Greek, and she holds a BBA with a major in HR from Université du Québec à Montréal. Find her on LinkedIn and at athinailiadis.com

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