Communication

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.

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

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

Success Indicators

You know you're successful when you:

  • 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

Mindset Shift

From:

"I communicate when someone asks."

To:

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

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?

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

Seek Feedback

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

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

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.