Interpersonal Communication- A Key Role of Communication Skills in Management
Table of Contents
- jaro education
- 17, February 2024
- 11:00 am
Have you ever wondered why a company always looks for someone who is great at active listening, collaboration, or teamwork when it comes to hiring? The answer is that despite having a vast range of communication channels in this modern workplace, every business – small to large is looking for a candidate with excellent communication skills, which is also called interpersonal communication. This is because it is a key responsibility- whether you’re being hired for a team leader position or manager. Effective communication is of utmost importance in the organisation to cultivate a strong empathy for others and build relationships.
But how can you define interpersonal communication? What can be done to achieve these skills? Trust us; you will get all the answers to your questions in this comprehensive blog. From what is interpersonal communication to its type and even a quick guide about how to build interpersonal communication, you will get to know everything.
So, stay with us and let’s read what you need.
What Is Interpersonal Communication?
Interpersonal communication is the act where two or more people communicate through verbal or non-verbal channels in order to convey information, ideas, or emotions. Most of the time, it occurs on a face-to-face basis through the use of spoken language, smiles, gestures, body language, and others. The degree to which a communication process is successful depends on how well messages are expressed and perceived by others.
In an office environment, examples of interpersonal communication can be found in instances when employees regularly interact, during client meetings, performance evaluations, and project-related conversations. Additionally, a significant percentage of professional communication also takes place over the Internet.
Types of Interpersonal Communication
Many people still fail to comprehend that interpersonal communication is an integrated process that has four distinct yet essential forms of language namely verbal, listening, written, and non-verbal communication. Mastering these forms of interaction makes it easier to connect with people for both business and personal purposes.
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1. Verbal Communication
In interpersonal communication, verbal communication is more than merely using words and grammatical structures. The tone of one’s voice and the choice of language are essential for conveying messages clearly and purposefully.
Consider the impact of presenting an original idea through hesitant speech compared to expressing an apology laced with sarcasm. Well-articulated ideas, when effectively integrated into spoken dialogue, build connections, encourage action, and build healthy relationships.
Even a word as simple as “wow” can be dramatic as well-rehearsed rhetoric in an oration at its time.
2. Listening
Interpersonal communication is not only about the unguarded expression of your thoughts but also about actively listening to others. This means paying attention to what the other person is saying by all the senses and the mind, as well as emotional awareness.
Focused listening is also beneficial for understanding and encouraging empathy. This can only be achieved by having interpersonal skills like summarising, reflecting, or clarifying questions, making the hearer appreciated, and helping to ease the differences with the speaker.
3. Written Communication
In this active and modern world, written communication is far beyond just texting or sending messages over the internet. It is a combination of various elements such as letter writing, crafting emails, creating reports, and developing presentations.
But wait, there is more to this.
Effective written communication involves more than simply joining words and sentences together; the context of the message must also be appropriate.
Consider an instance when you had to write a ‘thank you’ email only to realise that it was full of grammatical errors or sending a condolence letter without showing any signs of compassion.
Proper written communication should take into consideration grammar, punctuation, spelling, and even the proper placement of smiling or sad faces to make the text respectful and to the point.
4. Non-verbal Communication
Words alone are never sufficient to convey a message, as actions speak louder than words. Facial features such as the mouth or the eyebrows, along with other movements such as that of the hands, standing position or even the overall gestures, all make up the body language and accompany the verbal part of the communication
The process of deciphering nonverbal cues and gestures becomes important in management practices to promote communication.
Imagine trying to compliment someone while crossing your arms or glancing around aimlessly. It’s a challenge, isn’t it? Our body language plays an important role in how our words are received. A simple smile or a raised eyebrow can significantly add strawberry to your message. So, next time you want to connect with someone, remember: that just a few minor adjustments in your body language can make all the difference in how your message is communicated!
Interpersonal Communication Examples
Physical presence and phone conversations reflect our communication and relationships. Below are five examples of interpersonal communication.
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1. Meetings
- A discussion is always led by verbal communication where all the members take part in contributing ideas, putting up arguments, or even finding ways of resolving a problem.
- Non-verbal communication comprises facial expressions, the use of hand gestures, and body posture concerning other people. For instance, the head and feet show agreement or undecidedness respectively.
- Everyone participates by using active listening techniques promoting courtesy during the process and the interaction being more focused.
- Written Communication shows up through meeting notes, agendas, and documents that organize and structure discussions.
- In addition to the above, in online meetings, you can use gifs, and chat shortcuts, and may even add to various interactions owing to the upsurge in the use of these features.
2. Presentations
- Verbal communication appears to take precedence because the speaker has to ensure that the ideas are articulated using appropriate words, and suitable persuading strategies.
- There are non-verbal signals like body language, confident posture, eye contact and gestures that may help and reinforce the message thereby increasing credibility.
- Audience feedback, whether by a question verbally or non-verbally through reactions, ensures that the speaker takes their message immediately.
- Visual aid such as slides, charts, handouts, and others supplements an oral presentation and precision in communication.
3. Phone Calls
- In the absence of visual cues, vocal aspects such as tone, pitch and inflexion become important in expressing feeling and meaning.
- Listening with purpose is important because it involves the use of beat or vocal indicators like “uh-huh,” “I see” and even silence to show concern and attention toward the person.
- To reduce the chances of misinterpretation, clarity and brevity are essential, especially considering that the absence of physical backup may make messages difficult to read.
4. Emails
- Written communication is emphasised as this includes messages to be direct and simple without grammatical errors.
- The tone of the email is important as it comes through diction, syntax, and punctuation. It helps a writer to extend warmth, professionalism, or even humour.
- Materials like attachments, hyperlinks or even written documents provide more context and information
5. Text Messaging
- Using short sentences and abbreviations makes conversations fast and straight to the point, while the use of emojis adds character and feeling to the conversation.
- This raises the level of contextual understanding because brief messages may leave room for interpretation. Communication also becomes easier through the other person’s style of communication.
- Informal tone refers to the minimal restrictions on conversations. It allows friendly conversations which ultimately helps in building bonds through laughter and quick augments.
Difference Between Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Communication
We have heard a lot about interpersonal and intrapersonal. In fact, there are a lot of people who really get confused between these two. So, for you, here we have outlined the differences between interpersonal and intrapersonal communication encompassing their characteristics, roles, and purposes.
| Aspect | Intrapersonal Communication | Interpersonal Communication |
|---|---|---|
| Participants | Only includes a single individual and enhances a person's thoughts and feelings. | Involves not less than two people with interactions like speeches and discussions. |
| Nature of Communication | Involves self-assessment, and discussions with oneself. | Asking for or giving information is done either verbally (speaking) or non-verbally (through body movement or motion). |
| Process | This is a self-reflective process in which one contemplates thoughts internally. | This is an interactive process where one communicates with another. |
| Focus | Emotion regulation, self-awareness enhancement, coping with emotions, and internal strategising are included. | Enhances bonding, promotes cooperation, increases working relations, and manages conflicts. |
| Examples | Self-talk, daydreaming, journaling, meditation, or mental rehearsals. | Conversations, meetings, negotiations, group discussions, or conflict resolution. |
How to Build Interpersonal Communication Skills
Improving your interpersonal skills can help you build better relations with others, work more effectively with teams, and achieve a higher degree of success in your personal and career pursuits. Here are some actionable strategies you can use to improve in this area:
1. Practice Active Listening
This is one of the most important parts of building interpersonal communication skills – actively listening to others. It also speaks to the comprehension of what is being said and ‘not just hearing it’. There are ways in which a person can engage in active listening, here are a notable few:
- Maintain eye contact
- Nodding in agreement or understanding at appropriate times
- Asking questions to check understanding or confirm what has been said
2. Use Clear and Concise Language
Good communication is straightforward. Do not confuse the audience by beating around the bush with needless jargon or terminologies. Clear and precise vocabulary is very helpful as there is less chance of miscommunication.
3. Be Mindful of Non-Verbal Communication
Your body language, facial expressions and gestures say more than words would. Be conscious of your own body language to conduct it properly with the intended message and learn to read the body language of other people to know how they feel and what they mean without having to ask.
4. Show Empathy
You are able to know how and what the other person feels. In communication, try to put yourself in the position of the other person. Display empathy by validating their feelings and sympathising with their situation.
5. Build Connections
Developing connections builds confidence and reinforces bonds. Connections can be made for example by looking for things they may have in common, that may be hobbies or life events. Be able to use humour or praise to enhance the interaction and build a bond in the process.
6. Be Open to Feedback
Feedback is important for personal development. Be ready to accept advice and critique from others to learn more. Accepting the feedback shows that you are willing to do something about it and it ensures qualitative growth.
How Does Jaro Education Help
Jaro Education is one of the renowned online higher education and upskilling companies that assist students in terms of counselling and career support. For some programmes with IIM Kozhikode and other leading IITs and IIMs, we go beyond simply facilitating enrollment; we proudly serve as the exclusive marketing and technology partner for these exceptional programs. Our Jaro Expedite service offers a comprehensive career boost, beginning with precise resume building that aligns with corporate standards and enhances your professional goals. We also provide tailored LinkedIn profile optimisation to increase visibility and build networks with industry leaders.
Additionally, our Jaro Connect platform features boot camps and masterclasses led by esteemed experts, keeping participants informed about the latest industry trends. This also ensures that individuals are well-equipped with the right information related to the job market and achieve success in today’s highly competitive business environment.
Programs related to communication and management are:
Professional Certificate Programme in Strategic Management – IIM Kozhikode
The Professional Certificate Programme in Strategic Management – IIM Kozhikode is primarily meant for seasoned executives and professionals who want to up their game in business strategy and strategizing. Scenarios are assessed and strategies are developed in a practical manner.
Post Graduate Certificate Programme In Strategic Human Resource Management – IIM Trichy
The Post Graduate Certificate Programme In Strategic Human Resource Management – IIM Trichy provides opportunities to develop the strategies and policies of human resource management in accordance with specific business strategies. Strategic human resource management processes are elaborated through interactive online classes and in the course of practice.
Post Graduate Certificate Programme in General Management – IIM Nagpur
This Post Graduate Certificate Programme in General Management at IIM Nagpur is designed for working graduates who want to develop their managerial competencies. It is a semestral program of 12 months duration which incorporates e-learning and a three-campus study period.
Accelerated General Management Programme – IIM Ahmedabad
This Accelerated General Management Programme – IIM Ahmedabad is designed for those persons who want to develop themselves and grow in a management position in the shortest time possible. The contents of the courses are organized around fundamental management concepts of strategic leadership and other interpersonal skills critical for management.
Final Thoughts
All functions of management and individual success are highly dependent on communication with others. It does not matter whether it is a business meeting, a presentation, a written email, or a simple text message. The importance of communicating through speaking, listening, understanding, and even body language is crucial for creating and developing relationships, cooperation, and comprehension.
In the modern age, where managing people has become a core function of management, mastering new practices in interpersonal communication is essential. This mastery motivates both the individual and the organisation as a whole.
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