Cochise Newsroom

Most people believe they communicate well. But being understood by others is not always as simple as it seems. From classroom discussions to job interviews and workplace conversations, the ability to listen, express ideas and respond thoughtfully can make a difference in career success.

 

Career Services encourages students to strengthen their communication skills, an essential career-readiness competency identified by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).

Communication involves more than speaking clearly or writing a professional email. It requires understanding different perspectives, asking thoughtful questions and knowing when to seek guidance.

According to NACE, effective workplace communication includes six key skills:

 

1. Understanding the importance of written, verbal, and non-verbal language, and being able to use all effectively. 
2. Utilize active listening skills. Know how to persuade and influence others.
3. Being able to communicate clearly and in an organized way, so others understand.
4. Ask appropriate questions.
5. Respectfully communicate in culturally appropriate ways.  Tailor language to all abilities and skill levels.
6. Promptly speak up when needing guidance or help. 

 

No one is a perfect communicator, meaning there is always room to grow and gain mastery over each part of communication.

Students don't have to wait until they enter the workforce to develop these skills. Opportunities are already part of their college experience.

 

Class discussions, group projects, presentations and online forums help students practice expressing ideas, listening to others and responding respectfully.

 

Even general education courses that may not seem connected to a student's career goals provide opportunities to build workplace skills.
Miscommunication can also be a learning experience. When students take responsibility for misunderstandings, reflect on feedback and try again, they develop skills that can strengthen future professional relationships.

 

One way to improve communication is to understand how others experience it.

 

Career Services recommends completing the NACE Career Readiness Self-Assessment, available on the college's Career Services webpage.

The assessment helps students recognize their strengths and identify areas for improvement. Students can also ask a trusted instructor, mentor, supervisor or classmate for feedback. Comparing perspectives can help establish realistic communication goals.

 

Career Services offers weekly workshops at the Douglas and Sierra Vista campuses, online resources through Moodle and one-on-one career coaching appointments, available in person or virtually.

 

Getting involved with career services early sets you up for career success later on.

Effective communication isn't about finding the perfect words every time. It's about listening, learning and being willing to improve.

 

For students, those skills can begin with something as simple as asking a question, joining a classroom conversation or taking time to understand another perspective.

 

To explore career readiness resources or schedule an appointment, visit cochise.edu and search for Career Services.

 

About the author: Erin Ross is the Career Services Coordinator at Cochise College, where she helps students explore career options, prepare for the workforce and connect their education to future opportunities. To contact Erin, email rosse@cochise.edu or call (520) 452-2641. 

 

Credits

• Writer

  Erin Ross

• DATE

  October 14, 2026

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