We use interpersonal skills everyday to communicate with others. These people can be family members, friends, co-workers, or people we meet in a variety of situations out in the community. We assist consumer's in building their interpersonal skills to promote positive interactions and to limit frustration from breakdowns in communication.
A list of interpersonal skills areas may include:
Verbal Communication-What we express to someone and how we say it. Many of us have heard the saying, "it's not what you say, but how you say it." This is very true. Occasionally, we may be unaware of how our demeanor may be negatively impacting our conversation.
Non-Verbal Communication- An excellent example of this would be body language. These non-verbal cues can come in the form of facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, posture, and body movement.
Listening Skills- Attentiveness. How we interpret verbal and non-verbal communication from others. Effective listening skills will create less confusion and ensure the other person feels understood.
Negotiation- Working with others to find a mutually agreeable outcome.
Assertiveness- Communicating our values, ideas, beliefs, opinions, needs and wants freely. This is important for each individual in becoming a more effective advocate for themselves.