10 questions, graded as you go, with the reason for every answer. No sign-up.
What this covers
Listening
Speaking
Reading
Writing
Nonverbal communication
Work habits
Problem solving
Teamwork
Conflict
Criticism
Workplace conduct
Professionalism
Sample questions
Your foreman gives you a five-step set of verbal instructions. What is the best way to be sure you understood them?
Say you understand and begin working
Ask a coworker later what was meant
Do the steps you remember and then stop
Repeat the steps back in your own words
Show the answer
D. Repeat the steps back in your own words
Restating the instructions lets the foreman correct any misunderstanding before work starts. Saying you understand when you are unsure only delays the mistake.
Reference: Communication skills: verbal instructions
Which of these is a barrier to listening on a jobsite?
Eye contact with the speaker
Loud equipment running close by
Asking a clarifying question
Taking brief written notes
Show the answer
B. Loud equipment running close by
Noise, distractions and assumptions all block a message from getting through. Eye contact, questions and note taking are habits that improve listening.
Reference: Communication skills: listening barriers
You are explaining a task to a new helper. Which approach works best?
Use plain words, give steps in order and ask for questions
Use as much trade slang as you can so the helper learns it
Speak quickly so the helper is not kept from working
Give all the details at once and leave before questions
Show the answer
A. Use plain words, give steps in order and ask for questions
Clear, ordered instructions with a check for understanding are the most likely to be followed correctly. Unexplained jargon loses a new worker.
Reference: Communication skills: giving instructions
