What Are Poor Communication Skills?

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Individuals with poor communication skills have difficulties expressing ideas in a way they can be understood by others. In writing, examples include using language that requires clarification or making serious grammatical errors. In speech, a common issue is neglecting the feelings and emotions of the audience.

Poor communication can make it difficult for an individual to succeed in a business setting, where strong writing and speaking skills are crucial to completing work accurately and efficiently. When an employee on a project team gives confusing or incomplete instructions to coworkers, the end result may be weak in quality.

One may also have difficulties with friendships and relationships if he has poor communication skills. An individual may make a comment that includes a blanket statement like, “You never have any good ideas,” diminishing the person being addressed. Another common oral communication issue includes speaking in a way that makes someone feel like he is being judged or bossed around.