Ask HN: What does it mean to be a good communicator?

[Max_Ehrlich]

There's that stereotype of programmers who are "not good communicators". Every job description I've come across also always mentions how the candidate needs to have "excellent communication skills".

What do the wise folks of HN think about this -- what does it even mean to be a good communicator both personally and professionally?

[syndicatedjelly]

Many programmers I have worked with (as well as myself) are prone to overcommunicating. They will explain something, and then for some reason, re-explain the thing again, but slightly differently. That reason may because they think they explained the concept incorrectly, or because they sense that the listener did not understand.

This can be bewildering and frustrating for a listener, who just expected a 15-30second succinct response.

The solution is to be confident in what you’re saying, and allow the listener to ask questions if they choose to.

[zero-sharp]

I find it frustrating when I expect a brief and high level response to a question and, instead, I get an in-depth technical explanation.

But this is one instance of a larger observation. I think good communication is about understanding your audience (their background), understanding their needs, and understanding timing. It really depends on who you're speaking with. Not everybody in your organization has the same interests & priorities as you. Moreover, sometimes it may be inappropriate to talk about certain things, and that's why timing is important.

[kstenerud]

Take some communication lessons. Everyone can benefit from a business communications course, no matter who they are.