The 4 Stages of Communication Growth: How to Be Efficient, Effective — and Unforgettable — in 2025

Let’s be real…communication in 2025 is not for the faint of heart.

We live in a world of pings, alerts, AI assistants, voice memos, emojis, and 8-second attention spans. (I may have lost a few people after the word “faint.”) But here’s the deal: no matter how advanced technology gets, our ability to communicate effectively and efficiently remains one of the most significant predictors of success in business, leadership, and life.

And no, ChatGPT can’t do it all for you. Yet.

If you’re serious about leveling up your communication game, you must understand how people grow in this area. Years ago, I created a simple model — a four-stage communication development process. The goal? To reach that sweet spot in the upper-right-hand corner (green) of the “E Model” — where you are both effective and efficient.

Let’s break it down. Which stage are you in?

1. Unconscious Incompetence

“I have no idea what I’m doing — but I’m doing it loudly.”

This is the zone where someone doesn’t know what they don’t know. Maybe they dominate meetings, overshare in emails, or talk in circles and think they’re making profound points. They overestimate their skills and underestimate the damage.

This stage is dangerous — not because of ignorance, but because it is blind to the need for growth.

And in an era where everyone thinks they’re a LinkedIn thought leader…this stage is more common than you’d think.

2. Conscious Incompetence

“Wait a minute — I might be the problem.”

Now we’re making progress. This is the moment someone starts to notice the communication gaps. They realize their message isn’t landing. They’re not as clear, concise, or impactful as they thought.

The ego gives way to awareness, and that awareness is the birthplace of growth.

3. Conscious Competence

“I’m improving — and it shows.”

You’ve got structure, and you’re prepared. You know when to speak and when to listen, and you’re actively working on tone, timing, and clarity. Your communication is solid, but it still requires intention and effort.

You’re in the growth zone, and you know it.

4. Unconscious Competence

“I do this in my sleep.”

This is the gold standard. Communication is now smooth, natural, and adapted to every channel — whether it’s a face-to-face meeting, a video call, a podcast, or a social post. You don’t overthink it because the fundamentals are baked into your habits.

People listen when you speak. They trust you. They follow you.

But here’s the twist: you never stop learning even when you reach this stage. The best communicators in the world stay sharp, humble, and open.

So, Where Are You?

Seriously — take a moment. Where do you think you are on this journey?

• Are you communicating with clarity and purpose, or just reacting and rambling?
• Are you sitting comfortably in the E Model’s top-right “green quadrant”?
• Are you both effective and efficient across all communication channels?

If not, don’t worry. You’re in the right place.

Why This Matters More in 2025

We live in a time when digital tools are exploding, but human connection is imploding.

We can schedule meetings with a click, generate content with AI, and automate outreach in seconds. But what we can’t automate is authenticity. We can’t shortcut empathy. And we can’t replace the power of a well-timed, well-delivered message that resonates on a human level.

That’s where you come in.

Your growth as a communicator will set you apart in a world that’s loud, fast, and full of distractions.

Let’s Grow Together

Whether you’re a student, executive, entrepreneur, or just someone trying to improve your everyday interactions, I want to help you become a fourth-stage communicator who communicates clearly, consistently, and with impact across every medium.

Let’s connect:
 Ryan@RyanSauers.com
 678–825–2049

https://www.tiktok.com/@ryantsauers

You’re just one conversation away from becoming the communicator people remember — and want to follow. Keep Pushing Forward. #KPF