Get Ahead Workshop - Professional Communication: Your Bridge to Career Success

Thank you to our guest speaker Abigail Noreika, Employee and Community Education Program Manager for Goodwill Industries.

Key Insights from “Professional Communication: Your Bridge to Career Success”

1. Communication Is Your Professional Foundation

• Strong communication builds confidence in interviews, workplace interactions, and career development.

• Employers consistently rank communication as one of the top skills they look for.

• Effective communication helps job seekers overcome barriers, advocate for what they need, and create meaningful connections.

  
  

2. The S.O.L.A.R. Method

A practical strategy for creating strong, active listening habits and building trust in conversations.

S — Sit Squarely (or Face the Speaker)

Position your body to show that you're fully engaged and present.This signals respect and readiness to listen.

O — Open Posture

Avoid crossing your arms, hunching, or turning away.An open posture communicates approachability and interest.

L — Lean In

A slight lean toward the speaker shows curiosity and attentiveness. It reinforces that you’re engaged in the interaction.

A — Attentive / Appropriate Eye Contact

Maintain natural, comfortable eye contact — not staring, not avoiding. This builds trust and helps you connect with the person speaking.

R — Relax

Relax your facial expressions, shoulders, and hands. A calm presence makes communication smoother and less stressful for both people.

3. Professional Communication Goes Beyond Words

• Tone, posture, and facial expression often communicate more than what you say.

• Being aware of your nonverbal cues helps you deliver a more consistent, confident message.

• Nonverbal communication is especially important in interviews and first impressions.

  
  

4. Communication Helps Navigate Workplace Relationships

• Effective communication builds strong relationships with coworkers, managers, and customers.

• It promotes teamwork, reduces misunderstandings, and increases job satisfaction.

• It’s a powerful tool for self-advocacy and career advancement.

  
  

5. Self-Advocacy Is a Critical Skill

• Being able to communicate your needs, strengths, and goals can help remove employment barriers.

• Professional communication empowers individuals to share their story with confidence.

• Clarifying expectations helps prevent miscommunication and improves performance.

  
  

6. Practice Creates Progress

• Like any skill, communication improves with repetition.

• Role-playing interviews, practicing responses, and using the S.O.L.A.R. method can dramatically increase confidence.

• Attending Get Ahead events provides hands-on learning and a supportive environment to grow.