Interpersonal skills are the behaviors and tactics a person uses to interact with others effectively. People use interpersonal skills in every aspect of life - in the workplace, social situations, or within a family. These skills generally refer to an individual’s ability to work well with others, involving communication, listening, attitude, and deportment.
Key Takeaways
- Interpersonal skills are the behaviors used to interact effectively with others both on the job and in broader life contexts.
- While some individuals are naturally more adept, everyone can learn, develop, and improve these skills.
- Valued actions include expressing appreciation, resolving disputes, and good listening practices.
- Excellent interpersonal skills enhance camaraderie, improve results, and support career growth.
- Lacking solid interpersonal skills can put an individual at a disadvantage regarding group involvement, positive reviews, and job advancement.
Understanding Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills, often called people skills, social skills, or social intelligence, involve reading and interpreting social signals to form effective responses. Everyone demonstrates these skills through everyday interactions, though some people are more adept at utilizing them for specific outcomes. Both personality and practice play roles in one’s interpersonal abilities. While certain individuals may have an instinctual knack for them, others can improve through continued practice and interaction.
Employees with strong interpersonal skills are valued for their pleasant demeanor, positive attitude, and solution-oriented mindset. They’re often regarded as team players who aid in achieving goals and tend to be well-liked in any social interaction, including professional environments. Strong interpersonal skills are linked to an understanding of social customs, whether inherent or acquired, and adapting tactics based on others’ reactions to effectively communicate messages.
Individuals lacking in interpersonal skills can still succeed in business, particularly in roles that require minimal interaction, such as research or system testing.
Examples of Interpersonal Skills
The array of interpersonal skills that can lead to success at work includes:
- Clear communication: whether explaining ideas, asking questions, through writing, or speaking.
- Active listening: understanding and affirming communication from colleagues or customers.
- Empathy: showing understanding and empathy towards colleagues’ situations.
- Supporting colleagues’ ideas and efforts.
- Positive response to others’ communications.
- Willingness to complete tasks.
- Building relationships and maintaining a positive attitude.
Benefits of Interpersonal Skills
The benefits of strong interpersonal skills in the workplace cannot be overstated and include:
- Enhanced camaraderie.
- Increased trust and dependability.
- Greater creativity through collaboration.
- Effective task execution.
- Increased enthusiasm for tasks.
- Elimination of avoidable problems.
- Greater productivity.
- Exposure to positive experiences and building a professional network.
- Opportunities for leadership and promotions.
Can Interpersonal Skills Be Learned?
Interpersonal skills are often learned through group activities, everyday actions, and observation. Everyday life offers numerous opportunities to practice and refine these skills. They can’t be forced and work best when used sincerely, though aimed outcomes within work or community contexts can act as guiding frameworks. Strong interpersonal skills are crucial for many jobs and career success.
Using Interpersonal Skills in the Job Search
Interpersonal skills are highly valued in business, and job seekers should highlight these skills on their resumés and during interviews.
Showing Interpersonal Skills on a Resumé
On a resumé, emphasize interpersonal skills relevant to the employer’s needs by sharing accomplishments illustrating teamwork, effective communication under pressure, or relationship-building resulting in positive outcomes.
Showing Interpersonal Skills During an Interview
During interviews, demonstrate interpersonal skills by making connections with the interviewer. Showcase your ability to collaborate, listen, and communicate positively. Use anecdotes to relate your experience in achieving goals, listening to customers, or building successful teams.
Using Interpersonal Skills in the Workplace
Essential interpersonal skills for all employees include:
- Teamwork
- Verbal and written communication
- Non-verbal communication (eye contact, facial expressions, gestures)
- Dependability
- Responsibility
- Empathy
In the workplace, engage with colleagues for problem-solving, show enthusiasm for various tasks, and consistently embody positive, confident attitudes. Interpersonal skills are vital for building relationships and contributing to a company’s success. Poor interpersonal skills can hinder career development and might even result in termination.
How to Improve Interpersonal Skills
Interpersonal skills can be improved through practice. This includes showing appreciation, empathy, quickly resolving disputes, and controlling temper. Active listening involves repeating back a speaker’s comments to ensure understanding and responding appropriately. Companies often offer training for skill cultivation as part of workforce development.
What Is an Example of Interpersonal Skills?
Example of interpersonal skills include being a good listener, providing positive responses, and resolving conflicts among colleagues to achieve important tasks.
How Do You Show Interpersonal Skills?
Show interpersonal skills by supportive, empathetic, patient, and respectful interactions with others. Such behavior typically makes individuals enjoyable to be around.
How Can I Improve My Interpersonal Skills?
Improve your interpersonal skills by daily practice in various settings. These skills are essentially relationship skills used to interact effectively with others. Observe and emulate individuals who excel in these skills as you develop your own abilities.
Related Terms: people skills, social intelligence, verbal communication, non-verbal communication, empathy.
References
- Gartner. “Lead a World-Class Communications Team”.
