How would you describe your communication and interpersonal skills?

Sample answer to the question

I would describe my communication and interpersonal skills as excellent. I have a strong ability to effectively communicate complex ideas and technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. I have experience working in cross-functional teams and collaborating with individuals from different backgrounds and disciplines. I am a good listener and value open and honest communication. I am able to build strong relationships with colleagues and clients, and I am comfortable presenting my ideas and findings in meetings and presentations.

A more solid answer

I take pride in my exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, which have been honed through my experience working as a biomedical engineer. In my previous role, I regularly interacted with a diverse group of stakeholders including medical professionals, engineers, and regulatory authorities. I effectively communicated complex technical concepts to non-technical individuals, ensuring clear understanding. I closely collaborated with colleagues to design and develop medical devices, fostering a positive team environment. Additionally, I actively listened to the needs and concerns of clients, tailoring engineering solutions to meet their requirements. In presentations and meetings, I confidently presented my ideas and findings, demonstrating my ability to articulate and defend my work.

Why this is a more solid answer:

This is a solid answer because it provides specific examples of past experiences that demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills. It also highlights the candidate's ability to tailor engineering solutions and effectively present ideas and findings. However, it could be improved by including more details about the specific projects the candidate worked on and the impact of their communication and interpersonal skills.

An exceptional answer

I consider my communication and interpersonal skills to be exceptional and vital to my success as a biomedical engineer. In my previous role, I led a cross-functional team of engineers, clinicians, and external stakeholders in the development of a novel medical device. Throughout the project, I facilitated effective communication and collaboration, ensuring everyone was aligned and working towards a common goal. This resulted in the successful completion of the project within the designated timeline and budget. Furthermore, I actively sought feedback from team members and implemented strategies to improve team dynamics and communication. For example, I introduced regular team meetings and encouraged open and honest discussions. These efforts significantly enhanced team cohesion and productivity.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

This is an exceptional answer because it goes above and beyond the basic and solid answers by providing specific and measurable accomplishments that highlight the candidate's exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to lead cross-functional teams and improve team dynamics through effective communication strategies.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on your past experiences and identify specific instances where you effectively communicated complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Think about how you have collaborated with colleagues from different disciplines and backgrounds, and the strategies you used to foster a positive team environment.
Consider situations where you actively listened to the needs and concerns of clients and tailored engineering solutions to meet their requirements. Be prepared to discuss the outcomes of these interactions.
Prepare examples of presentations or meetings where you confidently presented your ideas and findings, demonstrating your ability to articulate and defend your work.
Reflect on any leadership roles or experiences where you led cross-functional teams and implemented strategies to improve team dynamics and communication.
Practice discussing your communication and interpersonal skills in a confident and concise manner. Focus on providing specific examples and measurable accomplishments.

What interviewers are evaluating

Communication skills
Interpersonal skills