Interpersonal communication and skills

A list of interpersonal skills

• *Verbal Communication – What we say and how we say it.
• *Non-Verbal Communication – What we communicate without words, body language is an example.
• *Listening Skills – How we interpret both the verbal and non-verbal messages sent by others.
• *Negotiation – Working with others to find a mutually agreeable outcome.
• *Problem Solving – Working with others to identify, define and solve problems.
• *Decision Making – Exploring and analysing options to make sound decisions.
• *Assertiveness – Communicating our values, ideas, beliefs, opinions, needs and wants freely.

Encoding messages

All messages must be encoded into a form that can be conveyed by the communication channel chosen for the message. We all do this every day when transferring abstract thoughts into spoken words or a written form. However, other communication channels require different forms of encoding, e.g. text written for a report will not work well if broadcast via a radio programme, and the short, abbreviated text used in text messages would be inappropriate if sent via a letter. Complex data may be best communicated using a graph or chart or other visualization.

Term	Definition
Strong interpersonal skills	A person who is able to communicate, work in a group, and has a pleasant personality
Verbal Communication	What we say and how we say it
Non-Verbal Communication	Communication without words, such as body language
Listening Skills	Interpreting verbal and non-verbal messages sent by others
Negotiation	Working with others to find a mutually agreeable outcome
Problem Solving	Working with others to identify, define, and solve problems
Decision Making	Exploring and analyzing options to make sound decisions
Assertiveness	Communicating values, ideas, beliefs, opinions, needs, and wants freely
Relax	Stay calm, make eye contact, and smile when stress levels are high
Clarify	Ask questions and seek clarification to avoid misunderstandings
Be Positive	Maintain a positive attitude to attract others
Empathize	Understand different perspectives and gain respect and trust
Working in groups	Learn about different types of groups and teams
Negotiation	Effectively negotiate with others for mutual respect and trust
Communication	Transfer of information from one place to another
Spoken or Verbal Communication	Face-to-face, telephone, radio, TV, and other media
Non-Verbal Communication	Body language, gestures, appearance, and scent
Written Communication	Letters, emails, books, magazines, internet, and other media
Visualizations	Graphs, charts, maps, logos, and other visual aids
Encoding messages	Converting messages into a form suitable for communication channels
Decoding messages	Understanding and interpreting received messages
Interpersonal communication	Face-to-face communication involving verbal and non-verbal messages
Elements of personal communication	Communicators, message, noise, feedback, context, and channel
Uses of interpersonal communication	Giving and collecting information, influencing attitudes and behavior, forming contacts and relationships, expressing needs, giving/receiving emotional support, making decisions, and regulating power
Assertiveness	Freely communicating ideas and opinions
Problem Solving	Working effectively with others to solve problems
Decision Making	Exploring and analyzing options to make sound decisions
Listening Skills	Accurately interpreting verbal and non-verbal messages
Negotiation	Finding solutions in conflicting situations
Verbal Communication	Communication using words
Non-Verbal Communication	Communication without words
Messages Encoding	Converting messages for transmission through specific channels
Messages Decoding	Understanding and interpreting received messages
Elements of personal communication	Communicators, message, noise, feedback, context, and channel
Tips for Improvement	Identify areas for improvement, focus on basic communication skills, work on personal and social skills, apply skills in specific situations, reflect on progress
Benefits of Interpersonal Skills	Effective communication, expanding opportunities, social awareness, client satisfaction, building trust, effective leadership
Ways to Improve Interpersonal Skills	Listen, be positive, empathize, understand stress, be assertive