Interpersonal skills, in a professional setting, pertain to how we connect with people and are strongly linked to emotional intelligence.
They include topics such as how we act around others, how we communicate (both verbally and nonverbally), how we manage our emotions and attitudes, how successfully we collaborate with others, and much more.
Many soft skills may be classified as interpersonal, and they are employed in the workplace to varying degrees depending on where you work and your level of responsibility.
With that in mind, below are some of the interpersonal skills that will improve your performance and the impression you make on people at any job in any industry:
Self-Confidence
In any job, and pretty much in any facet of life, having a high level of self-confidence can open doors and help you make a good impression on people.
People who are self-confident handle criticism well can defend themselves and their points assertively and respectfully and are willing to admit mistakes and take responsibility when necessary.
Whether you’re a recent graduate searching for your first job or a seasoned team member aiming for a promotion, it’s critical to show self-confidence at every level of your career to be successful.
People will perceive you more favorably if you have greater self-confidence at work, and your thoughts, ideas, and opinions will be treated more seriously.
Having confidence in yourself makes it easier to talk to people from all walks of life since it assures that you will be able to clearly communicate your point, make useful contributions and, if you are in a sales or negotiating role, be able to represent the best interests of your employer.
Openness to Feedback and Criticism
Being receptive to feedback may help you grow as a person and as a professional. Always see comments as an opportunity to learn rather than a threat.
It may take some effort, especially if the criticism is harsh, but remember to take a deep breath and concentrate on how you can improve.
Feedback and criticism (hopefully constructive) are important parts of learning and getting better, especially during the start of a new job or role.
If you are someone who demonstrates a willingness to accept feedback and criticism from others, especially those more experienced, your employer and coworkers will see you as someone sincerely interested in growing and adding value.
Good Body Language
It’s easy to neglect nonverbal communication, but your body is constantly communicating things.
There are various different types of non-verbal communication, and mastering them can have a major effect on how people perceive you and what you’re saying.
This body language includes things like direct eye contact, facial expressions, gestures, personal space, and body posture and position.
The way your verbal communication (your words) is viewed is frequently determined by your body language.
In fact, your body language can have a greater influence on your communication abilities than any other component.
Demonstrate a good understanding of body language during your interview, and you will make a lasting impression on your interviewers.
Good Listening
The first step in enhancing your interpersonal communication abilities is to learn to listen.
Failure to listen carefully can have serious implications, ranging from failing to carry out a manager’s orders to failing to fulfill a customer’s request.
Active listening is a talent that will help you in comprehending and learning from people, as well as responding appropriately to what they are saying.
Giving nonverbal cues that you are actively listening (such as nodding or maintaining eye contact) may also help to create trust since the individuals with whom you are working will feel heard.
In short, if you are a good active listener, you are better equipped to build meaningful relationships, which affects everything from how you are viewed to the quality of your collaboration.
Good Diplomacy and Conflict Management Skills
Conflict management is a crucial interpersonal skill for anyone working in teams, especially those aspiring to leadership positions. Workplace conflict may diminish productivity and create negativity.
Diplomacy, empathy, negotiation, assertiveness, and compromise are all good conflict management abilities.
A vital talent in any job is the ability to articulate your opinions, or defend the views of others, in a professional and polite manner and, occasionally, to diffuse or reframe altercations between people.
Conclusion
The capacity to engage and communicate successfully with your coworkers and managers is what we are typically referring to when we allude to interpersonal skills.
Interpersonal abilities at work are becoming increasingly important in the 21st century, particularly as remote work makes communication and relation-building more difficult.
Some industries require certain skills more than others, but the above list features skills that will serve you well regardless of the niche or industry.
