How are your communication skills?
As an Activity Director, you must have excellent listening, nonverbal, written, and verbal communication skills. Your responsibilities include effectively communicating with residents and their families, your staff, volunteers, and supervisors. Another job duty that requires excellent communication skills is writing policies and procedures, training programs, activity schedules, and grant proposals. The interviewer wants to hear that you have the necessary skills for the position. Explain how you are an effective communicator by giving an example of your communication skills.
"I believe I have excellent communication skills. There are many parts to communicating with others, which start with actively listening and observing body language. When assessing a resident, I know how to ask the right questions and listen and document their response. I can then use their answers to formulate an activity plan that works for their specific needs. I am also to effectively communicate to my staff and managers in verbal and written form."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I have learned that it is best to be open and listen first, in most situations, whether it be with staff or residents. I also like to ask clarifying questions for better understanding. Once I understand the situation and the other person feels heard, then I will proceed to say my part. In addition, sometimes allowing anonymous suggestions and feedback by way of a suggestion box or survey is helpful for communication.
Marcie's Feedback
Awesome! Being an active listener who ensures that the other person feels heard is so important. How about your written skills and public speaking ability? Remember that there are multiple aspects to communication; be sure to talk about all of your strengths in this area and include examples of times when you communicated effectively too. Great job!
