Behavioural competencies for Technology extension: 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 the facts and inferences 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., as required.
  • Demonstrates confidence in own position, is open to alternative viewpoints.
  • Shares information openly and honestly.

Level 2

Fosters two-way communication

  • Takes others' perspective when communicating, negotiating or presenting arguments (e.g. presents benefits from all perspectives).
  • Actively listens to others' perspective.
  • Effectively presents rationale or counter-arguments (as appropriate) when challenged.
  • Anticipates and plans for reactions of others and tailors the approach to the needs of the audience.
  • Targets communication to the needs of the audience.
  • 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 personal tack or planned approach.
  • Works to enhance credibility, promote trust and act in a manner consistent with NRC's ethics, values and standards.
  • Prepares and presents proposals, business cases, agreements, ideas and solutions.
  • Clarifies common ground between opposing points of view to advance cooperation.
  • Influences others' perceptions, using consensus building, consultations, negotiations.
  • Deals effectively with a broad range of individuals and audiences in a variety of contexts.
  • Demonstrates personal behavioural flexibility to respond to various social and interpersonal requirements.

Level 4

Uses influencing strategies

  • Uses strategies that link to or build on other favourably perceived initiatives, partnerships, or trends to create buy-in among others (e.g. key stakeholders).
  • Builds support to position organization and influence direction (e.g. networking; coalitions).