Build Your Communication Skills

What is communication?

Communication comes in three forms: speaking, writing and body language. We can all communicate, but how effectively do we get our message across? From first impressions in a CV and cover letter to coming across well in job interviews and handling yourself in team meetings, communication matters.

Takeaway tips

• In job interviews it’s not just what you say but how you say it. Make eye contact, don’t slump and don’t fidget. If you’re not sure of the answer, it’s fine to pause, or take a sip of water, to make sure you understand what’s being asked and present yourself in an honest, capable and enthusiastic way.
• Contribute to team projects and meetings – there are lots of opportunities to get your voice heard and contribute new ideas. When you present a new idea, aim to communicate its benefits so that people will understand why you think your idea is a good one.
• Listen as well as talk. In a group interview, make sure you get your point across, but don’t interrupt other interviewees because that suggests poor communication skills. You can also reference other group interviewees (e.g. “so-and-so just made a really good point, because…”). This not only shows off your teamwork skills but shows you are really listening to others when they communicate.