Everyone has their style of communication. Whatever your style, show the interviewer that it is useful. Your response should demonstrate your ability to articulate constructive criticism, encourage your team, or relay policy changes in a way that makes them exciting!
Here are some communication methods you may already employ:
- Leading by example. Understanding that your actions mean more than the words you say.
- Building a connection. Creating relationships that go beyond the surface is a great way to show you are a communicative leader.
- Understanding social cues. Avoid asking personal questions but keep your communication professional.
-Delivering effective presentations. Possessing the ability to give clear, concise, and helpful presentations.
- Practicing honesty. Letting your employees know they can rely on your word.
- Valuing transparency. Showing your employees that you do not have a private agenda. You always clearly communicate your intentions and end goal.
- Setting reasonable expectations. You can show your strong communication skills by never giving changes at the end of the day and ensuring your requests are timely
- Listening to your team. Exercising strong listening skills is often the best way to show you are a competent leader and discerning communicator.
"This way the team hears and reads expectations is significant for me. For that reason, I am careful how I present ideas and change; whether in person or via email."
"I will provide information to my team about struggles from another. Some of my staff members come back to me with advice to give the other teams and how we could help them with their problems."
"I believe I am direct but kind, and I am emotionally intelligent, so I feel as though I can sense the way in which the other person likes to be spoken to or coached. That said, I find I'm quite adaptable and customize my approach to the particular person with whom I'm working. This method has proven effective and allows for open, effective communication between other members of the team and me."
"I love to motivate my employees through floor sales contests. By communicating in an engaging and motivating way, I feel that their sales performance is better than ever before."
"I love to play to other's strengths. Everyone communicates differently, so I am sure always to send written, as well as give verbal, communication. Usually, that looks like a small, informal huddle outlining our topic or concern. I follow that up with a quick email detailing the discussion."
"I gave my student feedback because he appeared to be slacking off on a project. Rather than telling him, I thought he was lazy; I said, 'I've noticed that it's been taking longer for you to turn in those reports. What's going on? Is there anything I can do?' I always start by asking questions instead of making accusations. He was very appreciative and told me how he was struggling with motivation. I asked him what would motivate him and we were able to find a solution that worked for both of us."
"I gave my employee some negative feedback because he appeared to be slacking off on the job. Rather than telling him I thought he was being lazy, I said, 'I've noticed that it's been taking longer for you to turn in those reports. What's going on? Is there anything I can do?' I always start by asking questions instead of making accusations. He was very appreciative and told me how he was struggling with motivation. I asked him what would motivate him and we were able to find a solution that worked for both of us."