When a manager sits you down and mentions that you need to improve your communication skills, it can be a daunting and intimidating experience. Understanding what to say in response can make all the difference in how the conversation unfolds and the outcome that arises from it.

First and foremost, it’s essential to remain calm and composed. Acknowledge your manager’s concern and show that you’re willing to listen and improve.

I appreciate your feedback, and I’m open to learning how I can improve my communication skills. Can you provide some specific examples of areas where I can improve?

This response demonstrates that you value your manager’s opinion and are willing to take constructive criticism on board. By asking for specific examples, you’re showing that you’re committed to making a change and want to understand what you can do better.

Another approach could be to ask for guidance on what specific skills or areas your manager thinks you need to work on.

What specific aspects of communication do you think I need to focus on improving, and are there any resources or training that you recommend to help me improve?

This question shows that you’re proactive and willing to invest time and effort into improving your communication skills. By asking about resources or training, you’re demonstrating that you’re committed to making a meaningful change.

If you’re unsure about what your manager means by improving communication skills, you could ask for clarification.

Can you elaborate on what you mean by improving my communication skills? Is there a specific situation or context where you feel I could have communicated more effectively?

This response shows that you’re willing to listen and understand your manager’s perspective. By asking for clarification, you’re demonstrating that you want to get to the root of the issue and make meaningful changes.

It’s also essential to acknowledge any mistakes you may have made in the past and show that you’re willing to learn from them.

I understand that I may have miscommunicated in the past, and I’m willing to learn from those experiences. Can we discuss how I can improve my communication style moving forward?

This response shows accountability and a willingness to learn from your mistakes. By acknowledging past mistakes, you’re demonstrating that you’re committed to improving and moving forward.

If you’re struggling to understand what your manager means by improving communication skills, you could ask for examples of what good communication looks like in your workplace.

Can you provide examples of what good communication looks like in our team or organization? I want to make sure I understand what’s expected of me.

This question shows that you’re willing to learn and understand what’s expected of you. By asking for examples, you’re demonstrating that you want to get it right and communicate effectively.

Alternatively, you could ask about the goals and objectives that your improved communication skills should be aligned with.

What are the key goals and objectives that my improved communication skills should be aligned with? I want to make sure I’m focusing on the right areas.

This response shows that you’re focused on achieving specific goals and objectives. By asking about alignment, you’re demonstrating that you want to make sure your improved communication skills have a tangible impact.

Remember, the key to handling this conversation effectively is to remain open, receptive, and willing to learn and improve.

I appreciate your feedback, and I’m committed to making improvements. Can we schedule a follow-up meeting to check in on my progress and provide additional feedback?

This response shows that you’re committed to making a change and willing to be held accountable for your progress.

I’m willing to put in the effort to improve my communication skills. Can you recommend any books, courses, or resources that might help me?

This question demonstrates that you’re proactive and willing to invest time and effort into improving your communication skills.

Can we discuss how I can apply these skills to real-life scenarios? I want to make sure I’m using my improved communication skills in a practical way.

This response shows that you’re willing to apply your improved communication skills to real-life scenarios and make a tangible impact.

In conclusion, when a manager says You need to improve your communication skills, it’s essential to remain calm, composed, and willing to learn and improve. By asking the right questions and showing a willingness to learn, you can turn a potentially difficult conversation into an opportunity for growth and improvement. Remember to stay open, receptive, and focused on achieving specific goals and objectives. With the right mindset and strategies, you can improve your communication skills and take your career to the next level.

Be kind ❤