Communications Skill Assessment

Communication skills are one of the subjects that have exposed me to news skills both in spoken and written language. Previously, I thought that I know myself well; best communicator, emotional intelligence, and with best listening skills. However, after undertaking an observe behavior interview with my peers I realized that I have some strengths as well as weaknesses in communication and I had a learning journey ahead. For this assignment I will reflect on communication skills assessment where I will discuss my communication gaps, areas that require additional training and some of the strategies to employ to improve my current communication skills. 

While joining the class, I would say I was a good detail-oriented writer and good listen. However, I had my weaknesses and flaws in my communication skills, for example in public speaking skills. Another communication gap was pre-writing skills in researches and reports. However, the course have drastically changed my writing and speaking skills. In particular, I have changed drastically in public speaking, writing and prewriting skills. I undertook an online communication test where I scored a 68% which illustrated that I am more of a thinker and not a socializer, director, or supporter. 

As a thinker, Martin and Nakayama (2013) explain that communication and the approach to problems is influenced by the inclination to analyze ideas and situations logically. Such individuals are more of perfectionist and they may end up acting and speaking. However, as a thinker where one does and thinks based o logic and fact, one will lack supporter skills (weaknesses). Some of the skills for supporters are that they are willing to help, patience and good listeners.  However, I believe I have challenges to open up to change. 

Another weakness is the aspect of anger which according to Symons et al (2009), anger is very negative inter-personal communication skill. The aspect of anger particularly in a workplace is likely to scare others away creating communication in efficiency. As a thinker I believe I have a long way to go as sometimes I have great ideas but fear shooting them out. However, I am always attentive to fine details which in some instances affect embracing the bigger picture. I need more training on eliminating fear and speaking out critical concepts. 

I always believed I had good listening skills but I have learned from the online communication skills assessment that I have poor listening skills. According to LeBlanc et al (2009) listening is one of the vital skills that an individual should have as it greatly affects job effectiveness. I feel I need some additional training on listening skills. Due to this revelation, I have done some research on mastering listening skills and one thing I have identified is that an individual should pay attention, withhold from judgment, and understanding the other party. Through self-evaluation I have identified the cause of my communication gap is distraction. Generally, this course has taught me one important aspect, learn to listen and show you are listening. 

Based on my communication gaps, I believe communication is a journey that an individual requires to continue learning to perfect it. The most important element to improve my communication skills is listening, listening and listening and where applicable make request for clarifications. During my assessment, there was the aspect of planning which is a communication gap that can be rectified through writing things down and preparing for meetings and important discussions. On conflict resolution, I understand there is need of maintaining a positive attitude which helps in resolving conflicts without being judgmental. 

Reference

LeBlanc, V. R., Tabak, D., Kneebone, R., Nestel, D., MacRae, H., & Moulton, C. A. (2009). Psychometric properties of an integrated assessment of technical and communication skills. The American Journal of Surgery, 197(1), 96-101.

Martin, J. N., & Nakayama, T. K. (2013). Intercultural communication in contexts. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.

Symons, A. B., Swanson, A., McGuigan, D., Orrange, S., & Akl, E. A. (2009). A tool for self-assessment of communication skills and professionalism in residents. BMC medical education, 9(1), 1.