Interpersonal Communication

It is very vital to have good interpersonal communication skills to succeed in today's work environment. Interpersonal communication not only includes how we speak but also includes our body language, mannerisms, and idiosyncrasies. Good interpersonal communication skills go a long way in boosting job satisfaction, growth, promotion, network building, relationship management, etc. It is, therefore, important to develop these skills.

Here are some tips on how to develop good interpersonal communication skills.

• Try to speak slowly and clearly. Some people speak very fast. As a result the listener is not fully able to understand what they are trying to convey. Also, not many people trust fast talkers.

• Do not talk too much in work place. Speak only when it is necessary and required. Be brief and concise. Do not give unsolicited advice and opinion. Remember the old adage "If speech is silver silence is gold."

• Some people become tongue tied in front of their seniors or important clients. To overcome this situation, decide what you want to say in advance and practice it a couple of times in front of the mirror. Try to develop your self-confidence. Make a conscious effort to do so. Build a rapport with those people who share time or space with you.

• Keep an eye on your body movements and body language. Curb irritating habits like tapping feet, fidgeting, scratching you head, shuffling from one foot to other.

• Be polite and aware of your bad habits. If someone points out something negative about you, accept it gracefully and try to overcome it. Simple words like "Please" and "Thank you" go a long way in building good relationships.