Understanding the Difference Between Communication Skills and Competencies

Understanding the Difference Between Communication Skills and Competencies

When it comes to the realm of organizational communication, there often arises a question that many students and professionals grapple with: What sets communication skills apart from communication competencies? You know, it’s a bit like comparing apples and oranges; both are fruit, but they have vastly different flavors and uses.

Skills vs. Competencies: The Basics

Let’s peel back the layers. On one hand, communication skills are specific techniques you can employ when interacting with others. Think of them as the practical tools in your toolbox—active listening, clear articulation, and effective nonverbal cues are just a few examples. These skills can be polished and enhanced over time with practice and training. The big takeaway here? Skills are about what you DO in communication.

But here’s where it gets richer: competencies encompass a broader framework. They not only include those specific skills, but also the knowledge behind various communication techniques and the attitudes that guide your interactions. For example, imagine you’re resolving a conflict—having the skills to mediate a dispute is crucial, but without the right mindset—say empathy and patience—you might not navigate that situation very effectively.

Why Does This Matter?

Understanding the distinction between skills and competencies is especially vital in organizational settings. Why? Because effective communication isn’t just about having a few tricks up your sleeve—it’s about mastering a holistic view that integrates techniques, knowledge, and the right attitude. This combination is what elevates a good communicator to a great one.

Let’s take conflict resolution as an example. To genuinely possess competency in this area, you’d need to understand theories of conflict management, develop the skills to navigate disputes, and possess the emotional intelligence to handle delicate situations gracefully. It’s a mix that can make or break relationships in the workplace.

Skills as Building Blocks

Really, think of communication skills as the building blocks of effective communication. They’re foundational techniques that you can practice daily. Whether it’s improving your ability to listen actively or mastering the nuances of nonverbal cues, honing these skills can significantly impact your professional interactions.

But don’t stop there. To be truly effective, you need to connect these skills to a wider understanding of communication’s role in society and the workplace. That’s where competencies come into play. They push beyond mere techniques and delve into the rich territory of knowledge and attitudes.

The Emotional Angle

Here’s the thing—have you ever found yourself in a conversation where the person had all the skills but none of the empathy? It’s frustrating, right? That’s the emotional gap competencies help fill. They remind us that communication is not just about saying the right words; it’s also about the thoughtfulness behind those words. When you walk into an organizational meeting equipped with knowledge, skills, and the right attitude, you pave the way for more productive and harmonious interactions.

Wrapping It Up

So, as you prepare for your COM4120 class and beyond, remember: while possessing communication skills is imperative, developing true competencies— which blend those skills with comprehensive knowledge and a thoughtful attitude—can elevate your professional game. In a world where communication can make or break a career, this distinction is not just a theory; it's a roadmap to success.

As you embark on your journey of honing these skills and competencies, ask yourself: How can I integrate what I know with how I communicate? It’s a question worth exploring, in your studies and in your future career. Happy learning!