Behavioural competencies for Researcher: Communication

Openly communicating in a compelling, honest, persuasive and articulate manner, ensuring the message is clear, understood and consistent with NRC objectives.

Level 1

Presents information that others understand

  • Presents facts in a logical, clear and coherent manner.
  • Provides all of the available information necessary for understanding and making effective decisions.
  • Supports position and conclusions with appropriate data, information, examples, visual aids, demonstrations, etc.
  • Shares information openly and honestly.
  • Demonstrates writing and presentation skills.

Level 2

Fosters two-way communication

  • Anticipates and plans for reactions of others and tailors the communication approach to the needs of others.
  • Takes others' perspective when communicating, negotiating or presenting arguments (e.g. presents benefits from all perspectives).
  • Communicates complex ideas in a simple and persuasive manner.
  • Seeks feedback on the quality of both written and oral communications.
  • Communicates effectively with a broad range of technical and non technical individuals and audiences.
  • Conveys an understanding of and responds appropriately to the comments and questions of others.

Level 3

Adapts communication strategies to situations

  • Quickly and easily reads the environment and cues from others to assess when and how to change tack or planned approach.
  • Clarifies common ground between opposing points of view to advance cooperation.
  • Influences others' perceptions, using consensus building, consultations and negotiations to reach a solution.
  • Coaches colleagues on their communications skills.

Level 4

Uses influencing strategies

  • Uses strategies that link to or build on past successes, partnerships or trends to create support from others (e.g. clients, partners, collaborators).
  • Builds support to position NRC as a leader in a field of research and to influence the direction of research (e.g. networking; coalitions).
  • Influences NRC's strategic direction based on personal knowledge of the direction of research outside of NRC.