What Communication Skills and Ancient Architecture Have in Common (and Why It Matters for Your Team)

Ever wondered why the Parthenon, built over 2,000 years ago, still stands as one of the greatest architectural marvels? It’s not just because of its design; it’s because of its foundation. Without a solid foundation, even the most stunning structures crumble. Now, imagine your team as the Parthenon, and that foundation. It’s effective communication.

Communication isn’t just a skill—it's the bedrock of high-performing teams. Yet, how often do we see communication breakdowns causing missed deadlines, confused priorities, and unnecessary stress at work? We’ve all been there, and it’s more common than you think. But here’s the twist: communication isn’t just about speaking clearly or listening politely. It’s a competency that can be developed, measured, and improved.

So, what makes a truly great communicator?

Clarity

In a world drowning in noise, clarity is a superpower. Great communicators know how to simplify complex ideas without losing the essence. They get straight to the point, whether they're presenting a project update or writing an email. A message that’s clear cuts through confusion and ensures alignment.

Active Listening

Here’s the thing: real communication isn’t just about talking—it's about listening. Active listening means absorbing more than just words; it’s paying attention to tone, body language, and what’s left unsaid. Teams that master active listening see fewer misunderstandings and more collaboration. Why? Because they actually hear each other.

Non-Verbal Cues

Your body speaks louder than words. The best communicators know how to use posture, gestures, and facial expressions to reinforce their message. When verbal and non-verbal communication align, trust is built, and relationships thrive.

What Does This Mean for Hiring?

Hiring for communication competency might just be your secret weapon. Sure, you can find a candidate with all the technical skills in the world, but if they can't communicate effectively with clients, teammates, or leadership, those skills go to waste.

Here’s where competency assessments come in.

These assessments dig deeper than any resume or interview ever will. They measure a candidate’s communication ability within the context of their position, from handling complex projects to resolving conflicts. And here’s why they’re a game-changer:

They predict success: Candidates who score high on communication competencies perform better in team settings, stay engaged, and help push the team toward shared goals.

They remove bias: Ever felt your gut telling you to hire someone? That’s bias. Competency assessments provide objective, standardized data, taking the guesswork out of hiring.

They boost collaboration: With a team of great communicators, ideas flow freely. Competency assessments help you build a team with diverse but complementary communication styles, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard.

How Do You Know If Someone’s a Strong Communicator in an Interview?

Here are a few questions that reveal a lot:

For clarity: “Tell me about a time you had to explain something complex to a non-expert. How did you ensure they understood you?”

For active listening: “Describe a situation where listening carefully changed the outcome of a project or relationship.”

For non-verbal cues: “Have you ever noticed someone’s body language and adjusted your message? What did you learn?”

Let’s Put It All Together: Communication Competency for the Win

Effective communication doesn’t happen by chance—it’s developed and fine-tuned over time. By using competency assessments, you’re not just hiring great communicators; you’re setting your team up for long-term success. Imagine a workplace where clarity reigns, listening is the norm, and non-verbal cues are understood, making collaboration smoother than ever.

At Reveal by Hiring Indicators, we specialize in assessing these critical communication competencies. Our platform gives you the insights you need to hire for human potential—not just technical skills. Because at the end of the day, your team’s success depends on more than what’s on paper—it depends on how they communicate.

Ready to Build Your Dream Team?

Let’s get started. Book a quick demo and see how we can help you hire smarter and foster better communication across your organization. Email us at [email protected] today.

#Teamwork #Leadership #EffectiveCommunication #HiringSuccess #HumanPotential