Communication Allegedly In a survey by the University of Pittsburgh's Kai Business School, people  placed communication skills as the most relevant factor when choosing management staff.  According to the study, the ability to effectively communicate with others at work as well as speaking and writing communication abilities were essential in predicting career success. When you consider it, this makes sense. If you are able to communicate your ideas to others, they will receive clear guidance to carry out their assigned job. If you are not able to communicate effectively, your messages will be lost through changes in circumstance.  Breakdowns in communication put obstacles in the way of your career and personal growth.