“Good at English” doesn’t always mean “good at communicating”
So, you were “good at English” in high school.
Does that make a difference to your paycheck now, no matter what industry or occupation you’re currently in?
It’s a question most people never consider. But the truth is, the literacy skills you took for granted in the classroom are the very ones that decide your career trajectory.
So, the answer is yes.
Literacy helped you gain all the other knowledge and skills you’ve needed to get to where you are today. But literacy skills alone only get you so far.
Why being “literate” isn’t enough anymore
It’s communication – your ability to interpret, apply, and refine foundational literacy skills to real-world business situations – that enables you to perform at your peak.
And to become a “communication shapeshifter”: writing a technical document that a non-expert can understand, then crafting an executive summary that grabs attention in a single glance, followed by presenting a case online where every word must be compelling… all before lunchtime!
That’s why professionals who level up their literacy skills to hone communication competence don’t just get by; they get ahead.
Strong communication skills are consistently ranked by employers as a critical capability. A recent Jobs and Skills Australia report highlighted the “communicate and collaborate” skills cluster as likely to see the largest growth across all occupations.
The smartest investment you can make isn’t in crypto or real estate; it’s in your own ability to communicate like the leader you want to become. And strong literacy is the foundation that primes and positions you for the role.
Why ongoing literacy development matters
Today – International Literacy Day – is not just some feel-good educational initiative.
Business success depends on it, too. According to Ai Group’s Counting the cost: Addressing the impact of low levels of literacy and numeracy in the workplace report, a staggering 88% of Australian businesses are affected by low levels of literacy and numeracy. Poor completion of workplace documents, time wastage, and a lack of staff confidence and willingness to take on new work are just some of the impacts.
The leap from literacy to communication closes the aspiration gap between being heard and being ignored, between leading meetings and sitting silently, between writing your own ticket and watching others write theirs.
When you can express your thoughts clearly in writing, you project competence and attention to detail. When you speak with precision and clarity, you command attention and respect. The power combo of literacy and communication enables you to choose the right words, structure your thoughts logically, and adapt your communication style to different audiences.
Today, think about and thank the grown-ups in your early years who insisted that you develop strong literacy skills.
And if you want to take them to the next level, so you can communicate more confidently and effectively, let’s talk about how I can help you.
Book a complimentary, unconditional Communication Coaching Clarity Call.