If experience builds competency, then having spent our entire lives communicating, we should all, by now, be experts in communication. Yet the existence of this module shows how the first statement does not apply.
The answer to the question of why effective communication skills are important for me is simple: because I feel that I have yet to acquire effective communication skills, and yet, understand their importance to everyday life. In particular, having less experience in professional communication, I find my skills lacking in this area, be it composing business letters, preparing a resume and application letter, facing a job interview or giving a formal presentation. Each time I am faced with any of the above situations, I find it a hair-tearing and nerve-wracking experience, which should not be the case. Having gone through my share of workshops and talks on professional communication, I have learnt a bit of the theory and some do’s and don’ts. However, such a structured course with plenty of opportunities to apply the knowledge learnt is a first.
For me, not being able to communicate effectively is a letdown to myself and to the other party involved. Communication breakdown prevents the other party from understanding your true self, thoughts and ideas (if not true, then perhaps what you actually wish to transmit). On the other hand, communication is always the beginning of everything, be it a friendship, relationship or career. It is a pity if such potential is destroyed by the inability to communicate well.
