It is true that interpersonal skills form the foundation of success. Whether it is your personal life or your professional life, these skills are needed to interact with people, understand different perspectives, put your point forward, and give or receive feedback.

What are interpersonal skills?

Interpersonal skills are soft skills that we use every day while communicating to people. A major part of interpersonal skills is your communication skills, but they also include the ability to manage your emotions.

You can develop and work upon these skills by developing an awareness of how you interact with people. Notice the kind of language you use, the body language and gestures you focus on, and how well you listen to the other person.

Why are they important?

At every stage of your life, you rely on interpersonal skills as well as communication skills. To succeed at work you need to constantly work on these skills. If you’re at employee level, it is important to follow certain guidelines of interpersonal skills. But when you’re at managerial position or a leader, it becomes all the more important to take care how you present yourself. Your team is noticing you and your conduct – be it your language, how you communicate, the way you react in stressful situations, and how well you take criticism. Here’s how you can develop your interpersonal skills –

• Identify areas that need development
• Focus to improve your communication skills
• Assess your strengths and weaknesses
• Implement interpersonal skills learnt in day-to-day situations
• Reflect on your experience and improve

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Top 10 interpersonal skills that you need to develop to succeed at work

The 10 interpersonal skills that professionals need to succeed at work include the following –

1. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence includes managing and controlling your emotions. At work you need to control your emotions in many situations. Employers are always looking for people who can keep calm in stressful situations, not let negativity affect them, and avoid pushing personal frustration on others.

1. Empathy

Being empathetic towards others is all about understanding the other person’s perspective and putting yourself in their shoes. People tend to get attracted towards those who are empathetic, that’s why it is said to become a good leader or manager, you need to practice empathy.

1. Effective communication

Effective communication skills are an indispensible part of developing soft skills. You need to work on your verbal communication – the way you talk and language used; non-verbal communication – body language, hand movements, eye contact, gestures etc. and listening skills. A combination of all these in the right manner will be the formula to success.

1. Leadership skills

Leadership is that skill that’s sets you apart from your peers. A good leader is someone who doesn’t give orders, but encourages people to plan and work in a systematic manner. Effective leadership requires self-confidence and a vision.

1. Positive outlook

Having positive outlook towards work and life will help you sail through difficult situations rather easily. Instead of focusing on the problem, you can find innovative and unique solutions. Positive outlook is one interpersonal skill that’s neglected, but is of prime importance.

1. Openness to feedback

This consists of openness to both giving as well as receiving feedback. You should be able to give constructive feedback so the other person knows what areas need to be worked upon. And in the same way when someone shares feedback about you, take it as a learning opportunity and nothing personal.

1. Negotiation and conflict management

Handling conflict at workplace is a common practice. It also includes problem solving, rational thinking, and negotiation. Finding the best solution for all parties without letting anyone feel neglected, that’s what negotiation is all about.

1. Reliability

It is an interpersonal skill that’s often neglected. A person who is reliable will be able to climb the ladder of success quickly. Reliability at workplace encapsulates being accountable, your work ethics, and being integral.

1. Teamwork

The ability to be a team player and to work in diverse environment with people from different cultural backgrounds is indeed a strong characteristic. Teamwork is such an important part of being successful, especially if you’re a coach or a leader.

1. Active listening

You need to be an active listener and only then you can succeed at work. It is an integral interpersonal skill and a part of effective communication. Listen not just to reply, but in a genuine manner.

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