Employers repeatedly identify verbal communication skills as the most desirable of all entry-level job qualities. Just take a look at employment ads. However, year after year, they also claim that communication skills are often what many candidates lack.

• Read the article 10 Tips to Improve Workplace Communication

• Identity the industry in which you work: travel, food service, etc. Interview your manager (or a potential employer in your desired career area), by asking him or her about which communication abilities the company desires in employees.

• Ask your manager to clarify specifically how “communication skills” might translate into job-specific behavior in terms of how and when an employee would need to apply these skills. For example, how would a cashier or restaurant server is expected to talk to a customer? Handle a complaint? Social media?.

• In addition, ask your manager to clarify the reasoning behind why specific skills are desirable.

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Taking Action to Improve Your Listening Skills The people who can communicate perfectly both verbally and nonverbally have the best chance of having a successful relationship in their professional and ... View the full answer