Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills
Effective communication is key to building strong relationships, whether at home, in school, or at work. Basic interpersonal communicative skills are the tools we use to interact with others. Let’s break these down into simple components to help you enhance your communication abilities.
What are Interpersonal Communicative Skills?
Interpersonal communicative skills refer to the abilities we use to convey and receive messages in our interactions with others. These skills help us express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas clearly and understand others in return.
Types of Interpersonal Communicative Skills
- Verbal Communication
This is the spoken exchange of thoughts. It includes:
- Tone of Voice: How you say something can change its meaning.
- Vocabulary: Using words that fit your audience.
- Clarity: Being clear and concise.
- Non-Verbal Communication
Often, we communicate without words. This includes:
- Body Language: Posture, gestures, and facial expressions can show how you feel.
- Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact shows interest and confidence.
- Personal Space: Respecting boundaries is crucial for comfort.
- Listening Skills
Good communication is as much about listening as it is about speaking. Key aspects include:
- Active Listening: Show that you are engaged by nodding or giving feedback.
- Empathy: Try to understand things from the other person's perspective.
- Avoiding Interruptions: Let the other person finish before responding.
Steps to Improve Your Interpersonal Skills
- Practice Active Listening
- Focus on what the other person is saying. Avoid distractions like your phone.
- Repeat back what you heard to confirm understanding.
- Enhance Your Non-Verbal Cues
- Be aware of your body language. Stand or sit up straight and use gestures to emphasize points.
- Smile when appropriate to create a friendly atmosphere.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions
- Encourage others to share more by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer.
- For example, instead of asking, “Did you like the movie?” try, “What did you think about the movie?”
- Practice Empathy
- Put yourself in others' shoes. Try to feel what they are feeling.
- Respond thoughtfully to their emotions.
- Seek Feedback
- Ask friends or family how you communicate.
- Be open to constructive criticism and adjust accordingly.
Real-Life Examples of Interpersonal Skills
In the Workplace: A manager uses clear verbal communication to give instructions while also being aware of their tone to ensure it’s encouraging, not harsh. They also listen to employee feedback actively.
In Friendships: Friends who practice non-verbal communication well might notice when something is off with each other even without words. A simple touch on the shoulder can convey support.
In Family: Parents who ask open-ended questions can foster deeper conversations with their children, creating a stronger bond.
Comparison: Good vs. Poor Interpersonal Skills
| Good Interpersonal Skills | Poor Interpersonal Skills |
|---|---|
| Clear and concise speaking | Mumbled or unclear speech |
| Active listening | Interrupting frequently |
| Respectful body language | Closed-off or negative body language |
| Empathetic understanding | Dismissive attitude |
By enhancing your basic interpersonal communicative skills, you can improve your relationships and create a more positive environment around you. Remember, practice makes perfect!