Communication

Comparing Level 1 and Level 2

Level 1

Level 2

Description

At Level 1, communication is focused on clarity, responsiveness, and learning to express technical work in a team environment. You're developing the habit of sharing your progress, asking questions when you're blocked, and keeping the right people in the loop. Your messages might still be a little raw or awkward, but you’re building confidence. The most important thing is that you're communicating—and growing from the feedback you receive.

Description

At Level 2, communication is about consistency, empathy, and adapting your style to different audiences. You're learning to anticipate what others need to know and how to deliver it effectively. Your messages are becoming clearer and more tailored, and you're building trust by showing that you understand and respect others' perspectives.

Key Behaviors

  • •
    Provides status updates when asked
  • •
    Participates in stand-ups and team check-ins
  • •
    Asks for help when blocked
  • •
    Listens closely to instructions and direction
  • •
    Responds to code review feedback constructively

Key Behaviors

  • •
    Provides regular updates without being asked
  • •
    Adapts communication style to suit the audience
  • •
    Shares context and reasoning behind decisions
  • •
    Listens actively and asks clarifying questions
  • •
    Offers constructive feedback to peers

Common Struggles

  • May assume others know what they’re working on
  • Avoids asking questions out of fear of looking inexperienced
  • Has trouble explaining technical work to non-engineers

Common Struggles

  • May over-communicate or provide unnecessary details
  • Has difficulty balancing transparency with conciseness
  • Sometimes misses the emotional tone of a conversation

Success Indicators

  • Share your progress and ask for help when needed
  • Respond constructively to feedback
  • Keep teammates and managers informed about blockers or risks
  • Listen actively and clarify when you're unsure

Success Indicators

  • Communicate proactively and consistently
  • Tailor your messages to your audience
  • Build trust through empathy and understanding
  • Provide constructive feedback and receive it gracefully

Mindset Shift

From:

"I communicate when someone asks."

To:

"I proactively communicate to keep others informed and unblocked."

Mindset Shift

From:

"I share updates when I think of it."

To:

"I communicate consistently and adaptively to build trust and clarity."

Questions to Ask Yourself

  • Who needs to know what I’m working on?
  • Is anyone waiting on me—or blocked by me?
  • Can I make this message easier to understand?

Questions to Ask Yourself

  • What does my audience need to know?
  • Am I being clear and concise?
  • How can I show empathy in this conversation?

Build These Habits

  • 1
    Post regular updates, even if small or incomplete
  • 2
    Practice summarizing your work in plain language
  • 3
    Clarify meeting takeaways or decisions in writing

Build These Habits

  • 1
    Schedule regular updates to your team
  • 2
    Practice summarizing complex ideas for different audiences
  • 3
    Reflect on how your tone and style affect your message

Seek Feedback

  • "Was that clear?"
  • "Anything I should explain differently next time?"
  • "Did I give enough context?"

Seek Feedback

  • "Was my message clear and helpful?"
  • "Did I provide the right amount of detail?"
  • "How could I improve my communication style?"

Signals You're Ready to Level Up

  • You volunteer updates without being asked
  • You clarify what you need from others when reaching out
  • Others thank you for being clear, helpful, or easy to work with

Signals You're Ready to Level Up

  • You communicate proactively and consistently
  • Your messages are clear, concise, and empathetic
  • Others seek your input or feedback on communication matters

Focus Summary

  • Share early
  • Ask often
  • Clarity comes with practice

At Level 1, communication is a muscle—and you’re starting to flex it. You don’t have to be eloquent. You just have to show up, speak up, and be willing to learn.

Focus Summary

  • Be consistent
  • Show empathy
  • Adapt to your audience

At Level 2, communication is about building trust and clarity through consistency and empathy. You're learning to adapt your style and anticipate the needs of your audience.