Communication Skills Assessment Scale

When I share something with my friends, I am open and honest about what I am sharing.

I think before I speak because I am aware of how words may not mean the same thing to other people that they do to me.

I understand that sometimes the message the other person is sending may not be the same one I am receiving.

Before I communicate, verbally or nonverbally, I fully understand who my receiver is and how my message might affect his or her reception of my message.

As I communicate to someone, I am looking for cues that my message is being perceived as I intend it to be received.

I make my messages as precise and to the point as possible.

I use jargon with those who may not understand it.

I deliberately avoid the use of slang words and idioms with those who may be offended by them.

I try not to use words that might cause an emotional response that may distress or confuse the receiver of my message.

I recognize that how I say something is just as important as what I say.

I examine my communication intellect to determine what nonverbal messages I send and how well they imitate the meaning I wish to get across.

I carefully consider the method of delivery for my message: a face-to-face meeting, over the telephone or in writing. Which would be best understood by my receiver?

I form opinions about what others say to me based on what I hear them saying rather than what I think of them as a person.

I make an honest effort to listen to ideas with which I don't agree.

I make an honest effort to listen to ideas with which I don't agree.

I look for ways to expand my listening skills.