"I would rate my communication skills as 8/10. As a research assistant, it was integral to my work to maintain consistent contact with the organization's head researcher to explain my process and ensure data had been accurately gathered. We regularly met to discuss methodologies for gathering evidence related to abuse in nursing homes, and everyone needed to know how to properly interact with clients whose cases we were managing. Because of the legal ramifications of procuring inaccurate information, we had to make sure we were always on the same page. Therefore, I have developed a strong appreciation for communication and worked to improve my ability to communicate with my supervisor as well as clients."

"I would rate myself a 7/10 because I believe communication is all about learning how to connect to another person. You don't automatically understand how to talk to someone until you meet them and slowly get to know their work style and personality. When I am a new member of a team, I like listening as my co-workers share their institutional knowledge. Then, I begin to ask questions. When I am fully integrated into a team, I communicate with each member in ways that make them most comfortable and can empower co-working efficiency. At that point, my rating will increase to 9/10. When I joined my previous team as Program Director of Senior Transit, I rode around with all the paid drivers so they could tell me about their routes and train me on their jobs. Then, I spent a day shadowing each member of my team so that I could understand their unique roles in the team as a whole. Understanding is the basis of communicating well."

Equally important as communicating with co-workers is displaying proper communication with clients, donors, and volunteers according to the standards set forth by the organization's communications team. An organization like Human Rights Watch will have consistent branding standards and likely have general guidelines for interacting with stakeholders.