What Makes a Competent Communicator?

Every semester in her Interpersonal Communication class, Dr. Stancil starts with one fundamental question: What defines a competent communicator? In this segment, she shares her perspective through the lens of a real-life case study featuring a dynamic corporate leader. Stick around as Dr. Stancil breaks down the six essential qualities of a competent communicator and offers insights you can apply to your own interactions. 

Transcript

Welcome to Let’s Talk About It—the podcast that shines a light on the art of interpersonal communication. From handling tough conversations to building stronger connections, we’re here to explore the skills that help you thrive in work, relationships, and beyond. So, grab your coffee, get comfortable, and let’s talk about it!

Today, I want to talk about something that separates good communicators from truly great ones: authenticity. And to kick things off, let me tell you about a leader on a recent project.

Keep in mind that this client isn’t your typical public speaker. He’s never taken a formal public speaking class, and, sure, there are a few nuances in his pronunciation, accent, and dialect that make his speech stand out. But here’s the thing: when he presents, people listen. His energy is contagious, his stories are compelling, and his passion shines through. Why? Because he speaks with authenticity.

Authenticity is powerful. It’s not about having the perfect voice or flawless grammar. It’s about being real. It’s about showing up as yourself—your experiences, your personality, your truth—and connecting with others on a human level.

Think about the speakers who inspire you. Chances are, it’s not just their delivery—it’s how they make you feel. Authentic communicators resonate with us because they’re relatable. They remind us that communication isn’t about perfection; it’s about connection.

That brings me to a broader idea: what makes a competent communicator? Being authentic is just one part of the equation. Let’s break it down.

Competent communicators have:
Clarity. They know how to make their ideas easy to understand.
Confidence. It’s not about being perfect, but about trusting yourself and your message.
Empathy. They listen as much as they speak, understanding their audience’s needs and perspectives.
Adaptability. They adjust their tone, style, or content to fit the moment and the people they’re speaking to.
Ethics. They communicate with honesty, respect, and integrity, ensuring their words align with their values and build trust with their audience.
Authenticity. Like my client, they speak from the heart, making every word count.
So, if you’re working on your communication skills, remember this: you don’t need to sound like anyone else. You don’t need to imitate a “perfect” speaker. Instead, focus on showing up as your authentic self. Hone your clarity, build your confidence, and never forget the value of listening.
Because at the end of the day, great communication isn’t about impressing people—it’s about impacting them.

Thanks for listening! Keep speaking your truth, and I’ll talk to you the next time.