When it comes to success in the workplace, interpersonal skills are of the utmost importance. They dictate how you work alone and how you work in group settings. The following interpersonal skills are well worth investing your time and energy to develop.
Self-Confidence
While it may seem like an odd skill, self-confidence is essential to ensuring your co-workers and managers see your value for what it is. In other words, if you’re not confident in your abilities, how can those around you be? Don’t be afraid to revel in your accomplishments. When you’re good at what you do, it’s okay to be proud of that.
Flexibility
Work doesn’t always go your way or turn out exactly as you’d like it. But the most successful businesses are adaptable, nimble, and function with a team of flexible individuals. As a flexible employee, you should be ready to navigate unexpected obstacles or setbacks and be able to pivot and change direction at the drop of a hat.
Positivity
Being positive is a mindset, and, believe it or not, it’s a choice you can make for yourself. It’s also a skill that employers value. If you complain about the slightest inconvenience or always see the negative in things, try actively adopting a more positive attitude. You’ll eventually be able to see the bright side of things, which will show in your workplace relationships.
Receptive to Feedback
In a professional setting, the way you react to feedback is important. For example, if you’re given positive feedback, you should be gracious in receiving it and let it inform your future work. Conversely, if you’re given constructive criticism, you should take it with an equal amount of grace while also using it to do better next time.
Active Listening
Lastly, good employees should be active listeners. This isn’t just being able to hear what another person is saying; it is being able to fully understand their words and respond accordingly. Active listening sometimes requires reading between the lines to understand the whole picture.
What other interpersonal skills do you feel are worth developing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!