Answering Competency Questions

Answer Example

"I have always been a strong communicator; however, after I took a weekend long communications workshop last year, I can confidently say that my communication skills are above average. I would describe my communication style as respectful, energetic, and sincere."

Admin

"As an administrative assistant, if I am not effectively communicating, a lot can go wrong. I like to address complicated topics by breaking them down into simple to understand terms and turning large roadblocks into smaller goals to prevent anyone in the office from feeling overwhelmed."

Manager

"I do have confidence in my communication skills. I have always had to speak in front of teams, some small, some large. I am comfortable speaking to groups, and I tend to get positive responses from my audience."

Marketing

"I had better have confidence in my communication skills, seeing as I am in marketing! But yes, I do. I would say I'm rather direct, but try to gather as much information as possible before approaching an issue. Once I have it, I am direct and to the point. I find it gets things done effectively and without any convulsion."

Retail

"Communication is everything! When my last company acquired another business, there was a great deal of change going on at once. People felt uneasy and out of the loop. I recommended implementing various communication methods to help everyone learn what was going on in a timely fashion and introduce transparency into the mix. People were happy to be apart of what was happening at the moment."

Sales

"I'd say that communication is one of my most significant assets. As an English major, I have trained academically in productive written discussion and verbal arguments. I also have given over a dozen large and small group presentations, including a keynote speaking engagement in front of several hundred attendees, so I would say I'm comfortable presenting. In the workplace, I have been a part of teams both in a subordinate and leading role, and I would describe communication as one of my skills in the office as well. I am professional and respectful, yet I am also able to meet the audience where they may be. For instance, I have experience dealing with anyone from a truck driver or warehouse employee to the CEO of an organization and can adapt my tone and presentation style, written or oral, to the audience."

Teacher

"I'm a powerful communicator. I am a great active listener, which helps me be effective in communicating with both adults and students alike."

Apartment Leasing Agent

"Communication is everything to me, as a leasing agent. With my current company, I have recommended implementing various communication methods to help everyone stay on track, document better, and introduce transparency into the mix. I describe my communication style as open, easy, and organized."

Health Educator

"I'm the type of communicator that encourages open communication. I like to show my clients and coworkers that I'm approachable, knowledgeable and want to help others. I do this by asking a lot of questions of my students and reflectively listening to what they are saying."

Shift Leader

"She would say that I'm very concise and clear. I give directions to my team by stating the outcome I need and by when. I also check in to see if they understand how to do it. That way, if something isn't done, I can hold them accountable."

High School Teacher

"My communication style with the parents of my students could best be described as informal, and conversational. I want parents to be comfortable coming to me with their concerns and questions."

Study Abroad Advisor

"I prefer to communicate as directly a possible but also empathetically. I think it's important to be straightforward to avoid misunderstandings, but at the same time being too direct can hurt people, so over the years I've learned to listen thoroughly first and speak directly to my supervisor's, colleagues', or students' needs."

Ultrasound Technician

"When talking with patients, I'm always sensitive and understanding. Most of my patients are dealing with some sort of illness, and they are already uncomfortable. I try my best to make them feel at ease."

Radiologic Technologist

"My communication style in both my professional life and personal life is to be factual and honest. I've found that this achieves the most effective results."

Nursery and Greenhouse

"I enjoy teaching others about what I've learned about plants. I want to help them understand the reasons why it's important to provide the specific needs of each plant. I listen to their questions and try to break down answers in a way that they can easily understand, no matter their level of experience."

Critical Care Nurse

"I realize that salaries are often determined by the amount of experience an applicant has. I appreciate the fact that employers recognize experience as a factor in determining pay and am willing to show that I am worthy."

Psychiatric Technicians

"My communication style with my patients is assertive. I'm an effective, active listener. I state limits, expectations, states observations and I don't label or judge others."

Pharmacist

"I've found that clear and direct communication​ works best for my coworkers as well as patients."

Pharmaceutical Sales

"I've found that a clear and direct approach with my clients and coworkers has been my most effective communication style."