Communication

The ability to successfully exchange information through verbal and nonverbal symbols and behaviors.

Skill sets associated with this competency include:

Oral Communication

Knowledge required:

• Basic knowledge of public speaking tools and techniques and group dynamics
• Basic knowledge of the use of technology for public speaking

Skills and abilities required:

• Ability to use tools and techniques to orally and visually communicate ideas, results, issues, and recommendations in a clear, concise manner appropriate for the given audience
• Ability to provide concise summaries and speak clearly so others can hear and understand what is said
• Ability to utilize technology to enhance oral communication (e.g., use of the Internet, PowerPoint, public address systems, etc.)

Written Communication

Knowledge required:

• Knowledge of appropriate forms of business communication (e.g., letters, memos, agendas, reports) as well as the appropriate use of electronic and computer mediated communication systems (e.g., e-mail, instant messaging, text messaging, virtual communication systems)                                   
• Knowledge of basic formatting styles (e.g., American Psychological Association, Chicago Manual)
• Knowledge of basic grammar and spelling

Skills and abilities required:

• Ability to create properly formatted documents based on one’s audience
• Ability to write clearly and concisely
• Ability to tailor documents and materials to an intended audience
• Ability to create grammatically correct documents with limited errors

Interpersonal Communication

Knowledge required:

• Basic knowledge and understanding of leadership and management theories and practices as they relate to interpersonal communication styles
• Basic knowledge of interpersonal skills as they relate to advising a diverse population of individuals and groups

Skills and abilities required:

• Ability to understand the emotions of others displayed through words, tone, and nonverbal feedback
• Ability to actively listen
• Ability to manage one’s own emotions and impulses
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to and an appreciation for how others feel and respond appropriately based on the situation
• Ability for staff and student employees to respond to others’ statements and comments in a way that reflects an understanding of the context in which the statement or comment was made and the perspective of the speaker
• Ability to seek clarification when understanding is incomplete
• Ability to summarize information received to verify understanding and prevent miscommunication
• Ability to maintain eye contact as culturally appropriate with individuals and members of an audience
• Ability to present facts, analysis, conclusions, or solutions in a way that demonstrates command of content and considers perspectives and interests of the audience or constituency group
• Ability to proactively move a group toward consensus, effectively solve problems, and accomplish tasks by evoking active participation
• Ability to plan and structure situations to maximize success of a desired outcome for the common good
• Ability to discuss difficult subjects in a constructive manner with individual staff, with a team, as well as across the organization
• Ability to identify and clarify common interests and achieve consensus or compromise
• Ability to clearly communicate with one’s supervisor