What Do We Mean by ‘Interpersonal Skills’?
When we talk about interpersonal skills, we are referring to a whole range of abilities that help us relate to, communicate with, and work alongside others. These skills are crucial in fostering effective and positive interactions in various contexts, from personal relationships to professional environments.
Many of these skills revolve around communication. This includes active listening, questioning, and understanding body language. Additionally, interpersonal skills encompass various aspects of emotional intelligence, such as empathy, the ability to manage one’s own emotions, and the capability to understand and influence the emotions of others. Teamworking behaviours also play a significant role in effective interpersonal interactions.
For example, consider a Sales Executive who needs to meet with clients, understand their needs, and propose suitable solutions. If someone in this role has low interpersonal skills, they would struggle to ask the right questions and genuinely listen to the clients’ responses. This would hinder their ability to offer a solution that aligns with the clients’ needs, ultimately affecting their job performance and client satisfaction.
Why are Interpersonal Skills Important for Job Success?
All jobs require, to some extent, interaction with other people. Those with strong interpersonal skills can work well in groups or teams and interact effectively with others. They communicate clearly, make better decisions, persuade and negotiate successfully, and resolve conflicts efficiently. These abilities are essential for creating a harmonious and productive work environment.
Employees with strong interpersonal skills are often more successful in their roles because they can build positive relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. This leads to improved collaboration, higher morale, and increased overall productivity. In customer-facing roles, such as sales or customer service, these skills are particularly crucial as they directly impact the quality of service and customer satisfaction.
How Do We Measure Interpersonal Skills?
Video interviews are a valuable tool for observing an individual’s communication abilities, making them an effective measure of interpersonal skills early in the recruitment process. For roles where these skills are critical, it is beneficial to assess them early on to avoid investing time and resources in candidates who do not possess these essential skills.
As the recruitment process progresses, more in-depth assessments can be conducted. For instance, at an Assessment Centre, candidates’ interpersonal skills can be evaluated through role-playing or group discussion exercises. These activities provide a comprehensive view of how candidates interact with others in various scenarios, offering insight into their ability to collaborate, communicate, and manage relationships effectively.
In conclusion, interpersonal skills are a vital component of job success across all professions. By understanding, developing, and assessing these skills, individuals and organisations can enhance their ability to work together effectively, leading to better outcomes and a more positive work environment.