Verbal ability is the capacity to both understand spoken information and to communicate ideas through speaking so that others will understand. It’s a vital component to many careers.

For instance, pediatricians use medical training to treat patients, but they need verbal ability to communicate with both children and parents effectively.

Product knowledge is important for telemarketers to describe their products, but persuasion skills are the key to making a sale.

Baristas need to be fast and efficient at making a great cup of coffee, but they depend on verbal skills to connect with customers and co-workers.

Teachers use speech to provide information to their students in ways that are easily understood, while coaches must communicate clearly and concisely under pressure.

Social workers need to ask their clients the right questions to gather important information, sometimes from clients who are afraid to speak with them. They also need to listen carefully, and make sure their clients understand what’s being asked, while still communicating compassion and care.

In scientific and engineering fields, it’s important to be able to flex communication styles; for example, it’s appropriate to use technical jargon with colleagues who share a similar background and training, but then translate those ideas into simpler terms when presenting to the public.

In short, verbal ability is a key strength for many positions. While technical skills are increasingly important, employers in every industry value verbal ability in their employees.

Success in most positions requires the ability to convey information to customers, co-workers and leaders, while also listening to and understanding the ideas and information others share with you.