Interpersonal Communication Skills: Here's How You Can Master Them

[jrineakter]

Workplaces typically run on two essential fuels: decent office coffee and strong interpersonal communication.

Although communication may seem simple, the process is nuanced and can often lead to misunderstandings if not completed well. Especially in an office setting, interpersonal communication skills define the quality of your professional relationships.

In this guide, we'll explore the secret sauce of effective interpersonal communication. We'll also discuss how to avoid conflict, clear up misunderstandings, and improve collaboration between team members and departments.

What is interpersonal communication?
Interpersonal communication is more than just talking; it's about how effectively you can convey a message.

It involves exchanging information, ideas and feelings between two or more people through verbal conversations or non-verbal signals such as body language and facial expressions.

Think of it as a two-way street involving verbal and non-verbal communication, such as eye contact or nodding.

Interpersonal communication happens constantly in the workplace, whether it's internal communication between employees, project meetings, or client calls. And let's not forget the endless Slack messages.

Research shows that effective interpersonal communication skills lead to greater employee satisfaction.

Let's not forget the argentina number data importance of non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions. Have you ever noticed the tension when someone crosses their arms in a meeting? It's non-verbal communication doing its job.

**Also read How to avoid miscommunication in the workplace

Key components of interpersonal communication
Whether you're chatting face-to-face, sending an email, or giving someone the classic "we need to talk" look, good interpersonal communication skills will make both parties feel comfortable and connected. Let's break down the key components:

1. Verbal communication
Verbal communication is all about the way you speak. Everything from the words you choose to your tone , to those quick verbal affirmations like “Yeah” and “Uh-huh.”makes a difference.

Verbal communication is very important, especially in a work environment where you want to make sure your ideas are understood.

2. Non-verbal communication
Nonverbal communication includes everything you say without opening your mouth, such as body language, facial expressions, gestures, and the occasional raised eyebrow.

If you think these little things aren't a big deal, studies show that 55% of communication is non-verbal.

Let's say you're presenting your idea in a meeting and your boss leans in, nods, and maintains eye contact: without saying a word, you know he agrees.

3. Know how to listen
Active listening is the secret weapon of great communicators.

And the key is to focus on what is being said rather than just listening to the words. In fact, use verbal and non-verbal techniques to show that you are paying attention.

Here's an example of how you can do it: A colleague shares a problem he or she is facing. Instead of immediately giving advice, you nod, ask clarifying questions, and reflect on what he or she has said . Congratulations! You're practicing active listening.

4. Emotional intelligence
A high emotional intelligence helps you manage your emotions and understand the feelings of others.

On average, employees with high emotional intelligence earn $29,000 more , accounting for 58% of job performance.

Here's an example of emotional intelligence demonstrated in the workplace: A tense moment occurs when two team members disagree about the direction of a project.

You calmly mediate instead of letting tensions build, acknowledging each other's emotions and guiding the conversation toward a positive solution. You've just put your emotional intelligence to good use (and impressed your boss, a lot).

**Also read Email vs. Chat at Work: Which is Better for Your Team?

Types of interpersonal communication
One to one communication
Face-to-face communication is the classic direct conversation between two people. Whether it is a mentor guiding a student or two colleagues exchanging ideas, this type of interaction allows for personalized exchanges.

It can occur face-to-face, through written messages, or through nonverbal cues , such as a well-timed raised eyebrow.

For example, your boss calls you to chat about a project. You sit down, share ideas, and walk away with a mutual understanding, preferably without awkward silences. This is a classic instance of one-on-one communication in action.

Group communication
Group communication involves interactions between three or more people, often in team settings. Practical interpersonal communication skills shine here, as you must navigate different perspectives and keep track of the conversation.

Imagine you're in a project meeting with five colleagues, brainstorming ideas to meet a deadline. Everyone has something to say (some more than others) and, thanks to good interpersonal skills, the meeting ends with a clear, drama-free plan of action.

Public speaking
Public speaking takes communication to the next level. It's the art of addressing more than 20 people at once, whether it's a formal presentation, a company-wide announcement , or even a motivational speech. It's not just about what you say, but how you say it.

Think confidence, clarity and something special that will keep the audience awake.

For example, you're presenting your team's annual results to the company. The PowerPoint is flawless, the jokes land (thankfully), and you leave feeling like a TED talk superstar. Public speaking: conquered.

Technology-mediated communication
Technology-mediated communication, meaning “anything but face-to-face,” encompasses everything from emails and Zoom calls to Slack messages and even those dreaded “as per my last email” moments.