#EnglishSpeakingExamples

How to Answer "What's Something You Admire in a Good Communicator?" – English Speaking Examples

Have you ever been asked, "What's something you admire in a good communicator?"

It's a thoughtful question that often comes up in job interviews, networking events, or professional development conversations. The question isn't just about listing communication skills—it's about showing you understand what makes interactions meaningful and effective.

Answering it well shows that you:

  • Recognize quality communication when you see it
  • Can articulate what good leadership or interpersonal skills look like
  • Understand the value of human connection in professional and personal settings

In this article, you'll learn how to answer this question confidently in English, with real sample answers, useful phrases, and speaking tips that help you sound thoughtful and genuine—no matter what communication quality resonates most with you.


Before Answering This Question…

This question might seem straightforward, but it's actually a great opportunity to show that you can:

  • Discuss interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence
  • Share personal values and what you prioritize in relationships
  • Give concrete examples from your own experience
  • Use professional yet natural language

Let's look at some sample answers to help you build your own response with confidence.


Example 1: Active Listening – Professional Style

"I really admire people who truly listen—not just wait for their turn to talk, but actually hear what you're saying.

I had a manager once who would put down whatever she was doing, look you in the eye, and ask follow-up questions that showed she really understood your point. She'd even reference things you mentioned weeks later.

It made such a difference because you felt heard and valued, not just like another item on her to-do list."

Phrases to learn:
"truly listen"
"wait for their turn to talk"
"look you in the eye"


Example 2: Simplifying Complex Ideas – Conversational Style

"What I love is when someone can take something really complicated and explain it in a way that just makes sense.

My college professor could break down these massive theories into simple examples that anyone could follow. He never made you feel stupid for not getting it the first time.

Good communicators don't show off how smart they are—they make sure everyone else feels smart too."

Phrases to learn:
"break down"
"follow along"
"show off how smart they are"


Example 3: Staying Calm Under Pressure – Personal Style

"I really respect people who can stay calm and clear when things get stressful or heated.

I've seen some people who, even when everyone's panicking or arguing, can speak slowly and steadily. They don't raise their voice or get defensive—they just focus on finding solutions.

It's like they have this ability to bring the temperature down in a room just by how they communicate."

Phrases to learn:
"heated" (emotional/tense)
"raise their voice"
"bring the temperature down"


Example 4: Being Authentic – Short & Natural

"Honestly? I admire people who just sound like themselves, not like they're reading from a script.

You know those people who can give a presentation and it feels like you're having coffee with them? They're professional but still human.

They're not afraid to admit when they don't know something or even make a little joke. It makes you trust them more."

Phrases to learn:
"reading from a script"
"having coffee with them"
"admit when they don't know"


Useful Phrases for Your Own Answer

To introduce what you admire:
"I really respect people who..."
"What I find impressive is when someone..."
"I admire communicators who can..."

To give examples:
"I had a colleague who..."
"I've noticed that the best speakers..."
"I remember when my boss..."

To explain the impact:
"It makes such a difference because..."
"The result is that people feel..."
"What happens is everyone becomes more..."


Speaking Tips

  • Keep your answer between 45 to 90 seconds
  • Use a specific example from your experience if possible
  • Focus on one main quality rather than listing many
  • Show why this quality matters to you personally
  • Use a mix of professional and conversational language

Try It Yourself

Now it's your turn! Pick one communication quality you genuinely value in others. Use one of the example structures above, and practice speaking out loud for 1 minute.

Need ideas? Try thinking about:
"Who's the best communicator you know, and why?"
"What makes you feel comfortable talking to someone?"
"When do you feel most understood in a conversation?"

The goal isn't to sound like a textbook on communication theory. It's about sharing what you genuinely value and why—that's what makes your answer memorable and authentic.

Get a New Topic