Types of Communication
What’s the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication?
Verbal uses words (spoken or written); non-verbal uses body language, tone, and facial expressions.
What’s the first step you should take if you disagree with a teammate’s idea?
Listen respectfully and ask clarifying questions.
What’s one thing you can do to show someone you’re actively listening?
Maintain eye contact and nod occasionally.
What should you include in the subject line of a work email?
A clear, concise summary of the email’s topic.
What’s one core value at Pioneer Circuits?
Excellence, teamwork, integrity, grit, innovation
Name two examples of digital communication in the workplace.
Email and instant messaging (like Teams or Slack).
If a conflict gets heated, what’s a good way to pause and cool down?
Suggest a short break or say, “Let’s take a moment and come back to this.”
What’s the benefit of repeating or paraphrasing what someone just said?
It shows you understand and clarifies their message.
Why is it important to proofread emails before sending?
To catch mistakes and ensure clarity.
Why is collaboration important at Pioneer Circuits?
It drives better solutions and strengthens team results.
Why is tone important in written messages?
It helps prevent misunderstandings, as there’s no body language to read.
Name one “I statement” you could use during a disagreement.
“I feel concerned when deadlines are missed because it affects our team’s progress.”
Name one barrier to active listening.
Distractions, multitasking, or making assumptions.
What’s one thing you should avoid in professional emails?
Using slang or emojis (unless company culture says it’s OK).
How can you show respect to coworkers at Pioneer?
Listening, valuing input, using polite language.
What is “upward communication” in a company?
Information shared from employees up to management or leadership.
Your coworker interrupts you repeatedly in meetings. What should you do?
Address it politely, e.g., “I’d like to finish my thought, then I’d love to hear your input.”
How can you respond if you didn’t understand someone’s point?
Ask, “Could you please clarify what you mean by…?”
How soon should you reply to internal work emails?
Ideally within 24 hours.
Give an example of taking initiative at Pioneer.
Volunteering for a new project, offering solutions before being asked.
Give an example of a time when non-verbal communication helped you understand someone better at work.
(Open-ended—encourage sharing.)
When is it best to involve a supervisor in a conflict?
When the issue cannot be resolved between team members or affects work performance.
Give an example of how active listening can resolve a misunderstanding.
(Open-ended—encourage sharing.)
What should you do if you receive an email meant for someone else?
Inform the sender and do not forward or share the email’s contents.
How do Pioneer Circuits’ values help with conflict resolution?
They guide respectful, open communication and help build trust.