Communication

Communication Defined: Reads, writes, speaks, and listens effectively; applies effective techniques to create working relationships with others to achieve common goals; successfully communicates and collaborates with others to achieve goals.

Category Word Cloud

The Word Cloud text annotation indicator

above was created from the definitions contained in the category Communication and the related Critical Success Factors. Only those definitions under the levels of achievement for the Excels and On Target were included in the Cloud. Note how the words others, relationships, communicated and effective are predominant.

Communication Exercise 1: Interpersonal Skills

Rachel has been working as a Staff Assistant for 2 years. Among her various responsibilities are assisting full time and adjunct professors throughout the semester, directing or assisting students who come into the office or call with questions, and working with the budget.

To see how Rachel was rated on Interpersonal Skills, click on the Self Check below.

How would you rate Rachel on Interpersonal Skills based on the following scenario?

In her work with adjunct professors, Rachel often serves as a confidante. Over the last 2 years, she has proven herself capable of acting with diplomacy and tact. It has often been said that she is a great listener and her consistent ability to analyze a situation and react thoughtfully is admirable. Rachel is able to effectively determine when a situation should be brought to the attention of the dean and possess the ability to convey that information in a clear and concise manner.

Students also find her to be very helpful. She often develops ongoing relationships with students who actively seek her advice and are very appreciative of her ability to effectively guide them through processes and procedures.

a. Excels:

Clearly articulates thoughts and adds value in a variety of settings and styles; cultivates professional relationships across the College and at all levels of the organization; makes frequent use of active/reflective listening.
b. On Target:

Builds constructive and effective professional relationships; uses diplomacy and tact; communicates articulately and concisely verbally and in writing; understands and uses active/reflective listening
c. Acquiring:

Actively developing interpersonal style to build productive professional relationships; recognizes the need to further develop verbal and written communication skills; may benefit from coaching and observation of those who demonstrate effective skills.
d. Needs Improvement:

Inconsistent ability to develop professional relationships with others; often inarticulate; does not consistently demonstrate diplomacy and tact; communication skills are weak or inconsistent.
e. Unsatisfactory:

Lacks the interpersonal skills to develop productive professional working relationships; unable to deliver appropriate messages verbally and in writing; does not demonstrate effective communication and listening skills.

Communication Exercise 2: Cooperation and Teamwork

Francis has been working in the bookstore for two years. His responsibilities include inventory, stocking shelves and working at the book return window. He is also responsible for assisting the others at the register - especially during peak business times.

To see how Francis was rated on Cooperation and Teamwork, click on the Self Check below.

How would you rate Francis on Cooperation and Teamwork given the following scenario?

Francis has been working at the bookstore for two years. He had a rough first year. He demonstrated difficulty with recognizing when others need him to help. He took frequent breaks, often during peak business times, and he was willing to watch his team mates stock shelves while he leaned on the book return counter.

In last year's Performance Review, his supervisor rated his work as Needs Improvement for the critical success factor, Cooperation and Teamwork. His supervisor worked with Human Resources to set 4 SMART goals and developed a performance improvement plan that would guide Francis in the development of the skills and attitudes necessary to be successful.

This last year, Francis' supervisor did not see much improvement. He continued to take frequent breaks and was unwilling to offer help to his teammate's when the activity slowed down at the book return window. He did not demonstrate a willingness to achieve his stated performance goals.

a. Excels:

Establishes rapport with everyone; unrivaled willingness to assist others; fosters development of a common vision; is viewed by others as an ambassador for the department and the College.
b. On Target:

Works well with others; promotes teamwork and collaboration within and outside of the department; invites input from others; makes a valuable contribution to team/College objectives.
c. Acquiring:

Learning how to work with others to enhance the achievement of objectives; should be encouraged to move beyond comfort zone; may benefit from serving on committees or cross-functional teams.
d. Needs Improvement:

Is often reluctant to help others or share information; shows a lack of cooperation on team projects; appears more interested in promoting self interests over the good of the department.
e. Unsatisfactory:

Unwilling to cooperate; has consistently failed to achieve goals as a team member; develops road blocks to working as a team.