Speak clearly, listen actively, and write with professionalism across every situation at work.
Real Workplace Scenario
Your supervisor sends you a task with instructions over email. You start working on it, but halfway through you realize you may have misunderstood a key part. You've already spent two hours on it. You're worried about looking incompetent if you ask for clarification now.
What do you do?
#1
complaint employers have about new hires: poor communication skills
93%
of employers consider communication a top hiring factor across all industries
Both
ways — saying the right thing AND listening well are equally evaluated
Communication is the clear and effective exchange of information, ideas, and questions — adapted to your audience and situation. It includes what you say, how you say it, how you write, and how well you listen.
In the workplace, communication also includes knowing when to speak up. Staying silent when you're confused, overwhelmed, or have made a mistake is not professional — it's a communication failure that usually makes things worse.
The NACE Framework says it this way:
"Clearly and effectively exchange information, ideas, facts, and perspectives with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Understand the impact of non-verbal communication. Promptly inform others when guidance is needed."
THE EMAIL — Before you respond, read this:
You need to email your supervisor to ask a clarifying question about a task. Which approach is right?
Take the unprofessional email above (from Activity 1) and rewrite it as a professional email. Include a subject line, proper greeting, the clarifying question stated clearly, the Thursday notice handled professionally, and your name.
Your rewrite should be clear, concise, and completely free of slang, abbreviations, or informal language.
Submit your reflection to notify your teacher you've completed this module.
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