[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”Interpersonal Communication Skills are The Sin Qua Non of Success” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%236796bf” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Have you ever had a boss or a colleague who was extremely poor at communicating, empathizing, or delegating? Maybe they saved all their stringent critiques for emails; maybe they weren’t detail-oriented; maybe they expected employees to magically work on tasks they had no idea how to tackle. These are a few examples of the lack of interpersonal skills. These paradigms also illustrate how interpersonal communication skills are extremely important. When used correctly they are invaluable. Whether one works face-to-face with a team or from home and relies solely on digital communication, the value of good interpersonal skills cannot be overlooked. [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
“Your career success in the workplace of today – independent of technical expertise – depends on the quality of your people skills.
—Max Messmer
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Definition of Interpersonal Skills” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%236796bf” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Interpersonal skills are the tactics and behaviors a person uses to interact with others effectively. In the business sphere, the term refers to an employee’s ability to work well with others. Interpersonal skills range from attitude and deportment to communication and listening. These skills, also known as soft skills or emotional intelligence skills, are crucial for professionals to be able to communicate effectively in their work environment. Mastering these skills allows one to engage, form, and nurture beneficial relationships with others.
While strong interpersonal skills will help in all areas of life, they are particularly important when it comes to networking and interacting with others in the workplace. The good news is that interpersonal skills can be learned, improved, and acquired through intentional pursuit. For instance, the next time you’re having a conversation with someone, pay close attention to what you say and how you say it. Also, analyze your listening style. Figure out if you’re really listening to others as they speak or just waiting to answer them.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Interpersonal Communication in the Workplace” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%236796bf” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Most careers require consistent interaction with other people. No matter the profession – a writer, an app developer, an executive, etc.— effective and clear collaboration and communication are necessary and therefore make interpersonal communication skills in the workplace essential.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.
–George Bernard Shaw
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Although the importance of the written word cannot be disregarded, verbal skills actually determine whether or not words are understood and that they deliver the intended message. This is due to the fact that the written word essentially appeals to reason and logic while speaking appeals not only to logic and reason but also to emotion. [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Verbal Communication
Facilitated by the use of voice and words, verbal communication is a soft skill that one cannot do without. It is perhaps the most integral part of interpersonal communication skills. Improving verbal communication skills can be achieved in several ways.
Listening actively, avoiding talking too much, not interrupting others, conveying messages concisely and feedback in a constructive manner, giving credit to others and speaking calmly even while stressed are a few examples.
Nonverbal Communication
Whether presenting in a meeting or interviewing for a job, a person’s nonverbal communication is as important as verbal responses. The impression given to others is often determined by the way messages are conveyed through body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Here are some tips on how to effectively communicate without uttering a word:
Avoid slouching. Don’t fold arms as they can convey defensiveness. Refrain from smiling or laughing when the conversation is serious. Don’t use gadgets during interviews or meetings.
Public Speaking
The art of public speaking comes into play in various contexts – training events, professional presentation, motivational speaking, etc. – which is why employers highly value dynamic and well-prepared speakers. To become proficient in the art of public speaking, articulate clearly, control performance anxiety, assess the needs and priorities of the audience, create attractive PowerPoint slides and most importantly, adopt an engaging presentation style.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
Verbal Communication
Facilitated by the use of voice and words, verbal communication is a soft skill that one cannot do without. It is perhaps the most integral part of interpersonal communication skills. Improving verbal communication skills can be achieved in several ways.
Listening actively, avoiding talking too much, not interrupting others, conveying messages concisely and feedback in a constructive manner, giving credit to others and speaking calmly even while stressed are a few examples.
Nonverbal Communication
Whether presenting in a meeting or interviewing for a job, a person’s nonverbal communication is as important as verbal responses. The impression given to others is often determined by the way messages are conveyed through body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Here are some tips on how to effectively communicate without uttering a word:
Avoid slouching. Don’t fold arms as they can convey defensiveness. Refrain from smiling or laughing when the conversation is serious. Don’t use gadgets during interviews or meetings.
Public Speaking
The art of public speaking comes into play in various contexts – training events, professional presentation, motivational speaking, etc. – which is why employers highly value dynamic and well-prepared speakers.
To become proficient in the art of public speaking, articulate clearly, control performance anxiety, assess the needs and priorities of the audience, create attractive PowerPoint slides and most importantly, adopt an engaging presentation style.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
“There are two types of people — those who come into a room and say ‘Well, here I am!’ and those who come in and say ‘Ah, there you are’.
—Frederick Collins
[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Elements of Interpersonal Communication” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left|color:%236796bf” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Mastering interpersonal communication skills involves practicing the following elements as effective communication relies on each of them:
Listening
In a professional capacity, strong listening skills are indispensable. They help individuals comprehend messages accurately and then act accordingly. For instance, when a manager provides instructions to team members, they are expected to listen attentively and synthesize the information. When they do not, projects may be ruined or other negative consequences may occur.
Negotiation
Negotiation is a vital element in conflict resolution. Business professionals can help the company reach new heights by finding common grounds, identifying shared goals and communicating them.
Assertiveness
With assertiveness – the ability to influence others and drive them towards a common goal – one can bring a significant change in the workplace. Assertiveness is commonly an undervalued element of interpersonal communication, but this willingness to take charge and effect change is one of the prominent traits of a leader.
Problem-solving and decision-making
In order to maintain strong professional relationships in the workplace, it is important to solve problems and make decisions effectively. Both problem-solving and decision-making capabilities direct team members towards the common goal.
When leaders fail to take the steps necessary to solve problems and make the right decisions for the team, it can sometimes lead to the downfall of the business.
Interpersonal communication skills are priceless. Mastering them results in the power to get things done and to positively influence others.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
