What Makes a Great Communicator?

When asked to name one trait of “great communicators,” people tend to imagine skilled speakers. But communication is about so much more than just talking; it’s also about listening, writing, and nonverbal cues. Click the rows below to learn more about the four defining characteristics of excellent communication.

Verbal

Great verbal communicators speak clearly and share straightforward messages. They adjust their tone and inflection to match their purpose, and they give varying amounts of information depending on their audience.

Listening

Skilled communicators know how to listen. They remove distractions, stop themselves from jumping to conclusions, and avoid interrupting others. Great listeners pay close attention, help their speakers feel heard, and ask questions to improve their comprehension

Writing

Strong writing skills go hand-in-hand with excellent communication. Skilled communicators know how to write clearly, confidently, and efficiently—writing messages that are grammatically accurate and easy to understand. In every medium, skilled writers craft clear messages that people can easily understand. Their writing is well-organized, concise, and to the point.

Nonverbal

Skillful communicators are actively aware of how nonverbal cues can either reinforce or discredit their messages. Whether speaking or listening, they use nonverbal cues to nod in agreement, make eye contact, and use signals such as hand gestures to express themselves and reinforce their messages.

Skilled communicators also pay close attention to the nonverbal signals of others—observing facial expressions, body movements, posture, and nonverbal actions. As a result, skilled communicators avoid misunderstandings, respond appropriately, and forge positive interactions with others.

M1:S4 - What Makes a Great Communicator?

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