Question: Describe a situation in which you used your communication skills to describe a technical issue to a non-technical audience (client or colleague)…..
Instruction: Effective communication is essentially about successfully sharing ideas with others and ensuring that they clearly understand the information you’re trying to relay. Part of communicating well involves understanding who your audience is adapting your communication style accordingly. In your answer, discuss the typical steps you take to simplify the technical issue for a non-technical audience and provide an example of a situation where you used this skill. I’ve provided my work experience and my educational background. This situation will be based on one of two jobs that are on my work history. You’ll pick the Program Specialist or the Benefits Consultant to answer this question. Both jobs required me to telework. Below is an example of the step taken to simplify a technical issue for a non-technical audience….
Example: ‘When I’m trying to explain a technical or complex concept to somebody who doesn’t have knowledge in my field, I focus on conveying the most relevant information. Apart from keeping the information concise, I also try to link the new information with familiar concepts or knowledge they may already have. This tactic provides them with a point of departure and a means with which to form new associations. I have also found it helpful to draw pictures because visual cues can improve understanding’.