One of the best attributes we possess is our ability to communicate with each other appropriately. Our interpersonal skills are simply the skills we use to communicate with each other daily. There are many different aspects of communication that we have to consider. Communication can be verbal or non-verbally.
Interpersonal skills are fundamental in all aspects of life, but they can be even more critical in the workplace. Proper interpersonal skills can help expand workplace opportunities, and it is essential to look at how that is.
Definition of interpersonal skills
As mentioned earlier, interpersonal skills are the way of communicating and interacting with people. In its definition, Investopedia writes-
“Interpersonal skills are the behaviors and tactics a person uses to interact with others effectively. People use interpersonal skills all the time when dealing with others, whether in the workplace, in social situations, or within a family.”
In other words, Interpersonal skills are the behaviors and strategies a person uses to communicate effectively with others. People use interpersonal skills when dealing with others at work, in social situations, or within the family.
Collins Dictionary has written – skills that contribute to dealing successfully with other people.
Wikipedia says – Interpersonal skills are actions used to effectively interact with others. That means – the activities used to communicate effectively with others.
In light of the above definitions, interpersonal skills are the behaviors that help you communicate effectively with others at work, school, or in the larger arena. Examples include active listening, empathy, kindness, etc.
Examples of interpersonal skills
As mentioned earlier, interpersonal skills are the techniques and behaviors of effective communication with people. The types of interpersonal skills that can lead to great results at work include-
- Clear communication; When you’re explaining a topic or asking a question in person, in writing, or over the phone
- Listen attentively and carefully.
- Making sure you understand what you hear from a colleague or customer
- Compassionate behavior that shows you know and cares about a coworker’s situation
- Supporting valuable ideas and honest efforts of colleagues
- Respond positively to communication from others
- Expression of desire to complete a task
- Building relationships
- Being positive etc
List of interpersonal skills preferred by employers
Interpersonal skills are sometimes called employability skills. These are so important that employers don’t want to hire candidates without these skills.
- Active listening
- Body language
- Openness
- Negotiation skills
- Positive attitude
- Teamwork
- Empathy
- Critical thinking
- Emotional Intelligence
- Assertiveness
- Responsibility
- Effective communication
- Conflict resolution
- Problem-solving
Interpersonal skills on a resume
What characteristics, skills, or abilities can be called strong interpersonal skills? What skills will strengthen your resume? Let us know them first.
1. Communication skills
Clear and effective communication is essential for any organization. Communication can be oral or written. Again, communication can be non-verbal, such as gestures, expressions, tone of voice, body language, etc. If you lack some of these skills, you can learn them if you wish.
2. Emotional intelligence
Imagine yourself in the place of your colleagues. You can understand them very quickly. If you are aware of their feelings and overall values, beliefs, and current situation, you will find the right approach.
3. Positive attitude
A negative attitude is a disease. As a result, you will face a lot of problems. Everyone will gradually move away from you.
A positive attitude, on the other hand, transforms you into a desirable partner and an intelligent person. A positive attitude will make people do more for you. A positive attitude acts as a great regulator in overcoming complex problems. Statistics show that those who maintain a positive attitude in extreme situations have a higher survival rate.
4. Social intelligence
To achieve something, you must communicate with people and build relationships with them appropriately. People with high social intelligence know this well. Social intelligence works hand in hand with emotional intelligence. It helps to understand your role in society, social structure, and how you should behave. It can also be called tact.
5. Conflict management
Conflict is inevitable in our lives. Interpersonal skills include—constructive criticism, counseling, mediation, problem-solving, mentorship, and other abilities, which help in conflict resolution. Avoiding and properly managing conflicts is essential for workflow.
According to a study, American companies lose $359 billion yearly due to workplace conflict, and about 35% of the workforce is involved in the conflict.
6. Teamwork
Collaboration is one of the key elements of a successful team. Maybe some work can be done by an individual, but generally, team effort takes the work to a unique level.
7. Responsibilities
Employers value people who are serious and responsible towards work and whom they can depend on. No one wants to lose an employee who can work responsibly in an organization.
8. Patience
In some cases, patience helps avoid conflicts. Patience is vital when building a team or mentoring someone. Sometimes, even if an earlier offer is rejected, the same request is accepted again at the right time. That is why it is imperative to work with patience.
The mentioned skills are mainly interpersonal skills. These are very important in the work of any organization. Proper presentation of skills on a resume or CV will put you ahead of other job candidates.
Now the question is, how to mention the skills in the resume correctly? No reason to worry; I will discuss that in the next point.
How to demonstrate interpersonal skills on your resume?
- Briefly give two examples from your work experience that demonstrate interpersonal skills.
- Think about some of your actual accomplishments through your interpersonal skills.
- If you know a foreign language, mention that too because people who know more than one language must have better interpersonal skills.
- Also, mention if you lived in a multicultural environment.
- Mention keywords like “supported,” “resolved,” “improved,” “mentored,” “solved,” “counseled,” “guided,” “encouraged,” “helped,” etc.
- Also, mention if interpersonal skills related course or certificate.
- Also, mention if you mentored or trained someone.
- Mention any debate or public speaking experience.
- List of different technical communication tools you can use.
Remember that writing “Strong interpersonal skills” on your resume is not enough. You have to convince the hiring authority by example.
Interpersonal skills essential for your workplace
Communication
How you communicate with your colleagues, boss, or even customers is the most important skill to consider in the workplace. Your verbal and non-verbal communication needs to be appropriate, depending on the context. For example, responding with a laugh will be deemed inappropriate if someone tells you something serious.�
Other than that, the communication needs to be clear, and the person you are communicating with should be able to interpret your message. Public speaking is also a large part of communication; getting your message across to a large group of people should be done in a very easy-to-understand and respectful manner.
Empathy and calmness
Being empathetic towards your coworkers and customers is an essential aspect of communication in the workplace. It will help if you are always considerate of what other people tell you before you react or reply. Being calm and patient is a big part of communication in the workplace, as you don’t want to come across as rude or rash. If people around you positively perceive you, they are much more likely to listen to you.
Listening goes a long way.
Listening to other people’s input and opinions is a big part of interpersonal skills in the workplace. If you want others to attend, you should always listen to them. It’s always important to remember that other people’s input on a problem or conflict can help resolve it quickly and efficiently. Everyone likes things going their way, but sometimes listening to others might change your opinion.
Listening to all your employees is necessary for being a good boss. Like any leader, you should always take into account the point of view of all stakeholders. Being fair to all is a big part of leadership.
How can your listening skills help you expand workplace opportunities?
Whatever position you are working in, communication is crucial. Better interpersonal skills ensure that other people perceive what you are saying more positively, and your opinion will be respected more. If you are a boss, good communication with your subordinates will allow them to follow you better and respond positively to your words. It would help if you were firm as a boss, but you also need to show that you value your employees’ input.
Many jobs will require you to work in a team, and interpersonal skills are pivotal to success in such employment. Employees with better interpersonal skills will be likelier to contribute positively to the team and work better together.�
First impressions
First impressions in your workplace are significant and can set the tone for your time there. Your interpersonal skills can significantly help when applying for a new job. How you communicate verbally and non-verbally present yourself in an interview can make a difference in whether you land the job or not. Interviewers always look for people who can speak well and exude confidence and respect.
Your first interactions with your employees or bosses can set the tone for your relationships. Being well respected in your career and being seen positively can make a big difference concerning your future in your position. For example, say you are a fresh graduate and looking forinternships Melbourne; a positive impression will give you a higher chance of landing your desired internship. Showing yourself in a good light will also give you a higher chance of landing a job there.
Better communication in the workplace will also allow you to do your work better. Communication between employees ensures that the work flows smoothly and that there are minimal disturbances caused due to poor communication.
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