JUNIOR LEVEL

Can you give us an example of your written and verbal communication skills?

Sample answer to the question

Sure! In my previous role as a Program Coordinator, I was responsible for managing a variety of programs and initiatives. I regularly communicated with stakeholders, team members, and external partners through emails, phone calls, and in-person meetings. For example, I wrote monthly progress reports to update stakeholders on program developments and milestones achieved. I also conducted regular team meetings to ensure everyone was on the same page and to address any concerns or questions. In addition, I collaborated with cross-functional teams to align program objectives and ensure smooth execution. Overall, my experience has allowed me to develop strong written and verbal communication skills.

A more solid answer

Certainly! In my previous role as a Program Coordinator at ABC Organization, I honed my written communication skills by drafting detailed program proposals, progress reports, and presentations. For instance, I prepared a comprehensive program proposal that outlined the goals, deliverables, and timeline for a new initiative. I also regularly interacted with stakeholders, including senior management and external partners, through email correspondence and presentations. These experiences have allowed me to develop concise and effective written communication skills. In terms of verbal communication, I actively participated in meetings, providing updates on program progress and engaging in discussions to ensure alignment among team members. I also facilitated workshops and training sessions to disseminate program-related information to staff members. Through these interactions, I have developed strong presentation skills and the ability to convey complex information in a clear and engaging manner.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more specific examples of the candidate's written and verbal communication skills. It showcases the candidate's ability to draft comprehensive program proposals and communicate effectively with stakeholders. However, it can still be improved by providing more context on the impact of the candidate's communication skills on program success.

An exceptional answer

Absolutely! In my previous role as a Program Coordinator at ABC Organization, I demonstrated exceptional written and verbal communication skills in various ways. Firstly, I was entrusted with the responsibility of developing and delivering high-profile presentations to senior management and external partners. These presentations effectively communicated program updates, key achievements, and future plans, ultimately contributing to a higher level of stakeholder engagement and support. Additionally, I implemented a streamlined email communication system for the program team, ensuring prompt response times and clear communication channels. This initiative significantly improved team collaboration and reduced potential miscommunication. Furthermore, I actively sought feedback from stakeholders and team members to continuously improve the clarity and effectiveness of my communication. I consistently received positive feedback on my ability to convey complex information in a simple and understandable manner. Overall, my exceptional written and verbal communication skills have proved instrumental in the success of the programs I have managed.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by providing specific examples of the candidate's impact through their written and verbal communication skills. It highlights how their presentations and communication initiatives contributed to stakeholder engagement and program success. The answer also showcases the candidate's proactivity in seeking feedback and continuously improving their communication abilities.

How to prepare for this question

Review your past written communication materials, such as reports, proposals, and presentations, to familiarize yourself with your writing style and ensure clarity and conciseness.
Practice delivering clear and engaging presentations that effectively communicate key messages.
Seek feedback from colleagues or mentors on your written and verbal communication skills, and actively work on improving them.
Stay updated on industry trends and best practices in written and verbal communication to continuously enhance your skills.
Develop strong active listening skills, as effective verbal communication involves not only speaking but also understanding and responding to others.

What interviewers are evaluating

Written Communication Skills
Verbal Communication Skills