How can I improve my communication skills to become a more desirable candidate?

Okay, so I’m applying for jobs in marketing and communications, which, duh, obviously require good communication skills! But I keep getting feedback (both directly and indirectly… you know, radio silence) that I need to really step up my game.

It’s not just about speaking clearly, I think. I can do that. It’s more nuanced. For example:

• In interviews, I sometimes ramble or go off on tangents. How can I be more concise and stay focused on the question? I also think I struggle to connect with the interviewer on a personal level – it feels very transactional.
• My writing skills are decent, but I’m not sure they’re engaging enough. I can write a press release or a social media post, but it feels… flat. How do I inject more personality and make my writing more persuasive? I’m talking more than just proofreading.
• During group projects (I still get asked about these in interviews!), I sometimes struggle to articulate my ideas effectively and get them heard. It’s not that I’m shy, it’s more like my thoughts get jumbled when I try to explain them, and people just talk over me. How can I confidently and clearly present my ideas in a group setting?
• And finally, networking events! I find them terrifying. I never know what to say beyond the standard "what do you do?" and then the conversation just dies. I need to be able to strike up conversations and make meaningful connections.

I’m willing to put in the work, but I need specific strategies and actionable advice. Are there any courses, books, or exercises you’d recommend to help me improve in these specific areas? I’m really looking to differentiate myself and land a great job!

Answer

To become a more desirable candidate through improved communication skills, focus on several key areas, encompassing both verbal and non-verbal aspects, active listening, and written communication. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

I. Verbal Communication Skills:

• Clarity and Conciseness: Articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely. Avoid jargon or overly complex language unless you are certain your audience understands it. Practice summarizing complex information into digestible points. Use specific examples to illustrate your ideas and make them more relatable. A good method is the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers to behavioral questions. For example, avoid saying "I improved team performance," and instead say, "In my previous role (Situation), our team was behind on a critical deadline (Task). I implemented a daily stand-up meeting (Action) which improved communication and we delivered the project on time (Result)."
• Active Listening: Listening is equally as important as speaking. Pay close attention to what others are saying, both verbally and nonverbally. Demonstrate that you are listening by making eye contact, nodding, and providing verbal cues like "I understand" or "That’s a good point." Ask clarifying questions to ensure you fully grasp the other person’s perspective. Summarize what they said to confirm your understanding and show you were engaged.
• Confidence and Enthusiasm: Project confidence in your voice and body language. Speak clearly and at an appropriate volume. Vary your tone and inflection to keep your audience engaged. Display enthusiasm for the role, the company, and the work you’ll be doing. This conveys passion and genuine interest, which can be very attractive to employers.
• Storytelling: Craft compelling narratives to illustrate your experiences and accomplishments. Stories are more memorable and engaging than simply listing facts. Practice telling stories that highlight your skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork skills. Tailor your stories to the specific job requirements and the company’s values.
• Adaptability: Adjust your communication style to suit the audience and the situation. Be aware of cultural differences and communication norms. Some situations call for a formal tone, while others may allow for a more casual approach. Observe how others communicate in the workplace and adapt accordingly.
• Questioning Techniques: Formulate insightful and thoughtful questions. This demonstrates your curiosity and engagement. Avoid asking questions that have already been answered or that can be easily found online. Prepare questions in advance but be ready to deviate based on the flow of the conversation.
• Giving and Receiving Feedback: Be open to receiving feedback and willing to provide constructive criticism. When giving feedback, focus on specific behaviors and their impact, rather than making personal judgments. Frame feedback in a positive and supportive way. When receiving feedback, listen attentively, ask clarifying questions, and acknowledge the feedback graciously.
• Public Speaking/Presentations: If applicable to the role, practice your public speaking skills. This includes preparing a structured presentation, using visual aids effectively, and engaging the audience. Practice your delivery to ensure you speak clearly, maintain eye contact, and manage your time effectively.

II. Nonverbal Communication Skills:

• Body Language: Be mindful of your body language. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and use appropriate gestures. Avoid fidgeting, crossing your arms, or slouching, as these can convey disinterest or nervousness. Mirroring the body language of the person you are speaking with can help build rapport.
• Facial Expressions: Pay attention to your facial expressions. Smile genuinely and show that you are engaged and interested. Avoid appearing bored, distracted, or judgmental.
• Professional Appearance: Dress professionally and appropriately for the interview or workplace. Your appearance conveys respect for the company and the opportunity. Ensure you are well-groomed and presentable.
• Personal Space: Respect personal space boundaries. Avoid standing too close to others or invading their personal space. Observe social cues to determine the appropriate distance.

III. Written Communication Skills:

• Clarity and Grammar: Write clearly and concisely, using correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Proofread your work carefully before submitting it. Use a professional tone and avoid slang or informal language.
• Email Etiquette: Follow proper email etiquette. Use a professional subject line, address the recipient appropriately, and keep your message concise and to the point. Proofread your email before sending it and avoid using all caps or excessive exclamation points.
• Resume and Cover Letter: Craft a compelling resume and cover letter that highlight your skills and accomplishments. Tailor your resume and cover letter to each specific job application. Use action verbs to describe your experiences and quantify your results whenever possible.
• Business Writing: If the role requires business writing, practice writing reports, memos, and other business documents. Follow a clear and logical structure and use professional language.

IV. Active Listening Skills (Expanded):

• Paying Attention: Focus fully on the speaker. Minimize distractions (put away your phone, close unnecessary tabs).
• Showing That You’re Listening: Use nonverbal cues like nodding, eye contact, and smiling to show you’re engaged.
• Providing Feedback: Paraphrase the speaker’s words to confirm your understanding. Ask clarifying questions.
• Deferring Judgment: Listen without interrupting or forming premature conclusions.
• Responding Appropriately: Offer thoughtful responses that are relevant to the conversation.

V. Practicing and Seeking Feedback:

• Mock Interviews: Practice answering common interview questions with a friend, family member, or career counselor. Record yourself and review the footage to identify areas for improvement.
• Networking Events: Attend networking events to practice your communication skills in a professional setting.
• Toastmasters: Join a Toastmasters club to improve your public speaking skills.
• Professional Development Courses: Take courses in communication, public speaking, or business writing.
• Seek Feedback from Mentors or Supervisors: Ask for feedback on your communication skills from trusted mentors or supervisors. Be open to constructive criticism and willing to make changes.

By consistently practicing and refining these skills, you can significantly improve your communication abilities and become a more desirable candidate in the job market. Good communication skills build trust, demonstrate professionalism, and convey competence – all highly valued by employers.