Good interpersonal skills are a crucial factor in both workplace and personal success. Let’s face it, people with this skill are easier to be around. They are able to communicate and connect with others in an effortless manner and as a result, they make interactions seem easy and more enjoyable.
Why is this important in the workplace? Because it doesn’t matter how many great ideas you have or how many extra hours you put in, if you have problems connecting with colleagues, managers, and leaders, your impact may fall short. Relationships fuel progress.
The good news is there are some simple things you can do that will make a big difference right away. Here are five simple techniques that can dramatically boost your interpersonal effectiveness.
- Smile. Most people do not want to be around someone who always seems grumpy and negative. An inviting smile puts people at ease and makes them comfortable. Smile, be friendly and upbeat, maintain a positive, cheerful attitude and smile often. Practice in the mirror every morning so you can see what others see. The positive energy you transmit will make you feel better and draw others to you.
- Mirror moments: Spend 30 seconds each morning smiling at yourself, not out of vanity, but to reinforce positivity.
- Micro-interactions: Whether greeting a barista or stepping into a Zoom call, let a smile precede your words.
- Energy boost: Smiling, even when you’re not in the mood, can stimulate neurotransmitters that lift your spirits too.
- Be Helpful to Others. If you can see someone is feeling awkward and seems not to know what to do or say, see if you can help them out – tactfully. Perhaps you help them get started by asking them a question. “Can I be of assistance?” or “Are you in need of some help?” Sometimes people just need a helping hand.
- Emotional radar: Notice when someone looks uncomfortable in a group or meeting. A gentle “How’s everything going?” can ease anxiety.
- Lead with care: Helping others isn’t transactional; it’s relational. Offering assistance says, “I see you, and I want you to succeed.”
- Express Gratitude. Identify something you appreciate in another person and let them know. This validates the other person and the efforts they are making. Research indicates that employees who are acknowledged once every seven or so days are more engaged at work. Be sure to say thank you when someone helps you. Make colleagues and others feel welcome when they call or stop by. If you let others know that they are appreciated, they will most likely reciprocate in the future.
- Public praise: Recognize a colleague’s good work in a meeting or email thread, not just privately.
- Frequent thanks: Don’t wait for big favors. Express appreciation for everyday gestures like responding promptly or offering insight.
- Keep a gratitude log: Not just what you’re grateful for, but whom. It trains your mind to notice and elevate others.
- Be a Good Listener. Listen deeply and openly to demonstrate that you truly hear and understand another’s point of view. Confirm for understanding by restating, in your own words, what the other person has said. This way, you know that you understood their meaning and they know your responses are sincere and genuine. Others appreciate knowing that you really do listen and truly hear what they have to say.
- Verbal mirror: Reflect back what you hear using phrases like, “So what I’m hearing is…” to validate and clarify.
- Silence speaks: Resist the urge to jump in with solutions. Give people the space to finish thoughts without interruption.
- Empathy lens: Notice tone, body language, and what’s left unsaid is how you listen beyond words.
- Take a Genuine Interest in Others. Be other-oriented. Take an interest in what’s going on in their lives. Acknowledge their happy milestones and accomplishments, inquire about the family, and express concern and sympathy if difficult situations arise. Oftentimes, it only takes a smile or a good morning or good afternoon to make a difference. Small gestures have big impacts.
- Life touchpoints: Celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries, or personal wins. A quick message or card goes a long way.
- Stay curious: Ask open-ended questions about hobbies, family, or recent travels.
- Be present: Whether it’s a hallway “hello” or a quick coffee chat, your attentiveness can make someone’s whole day.
And why does this matter at home? Because your loved ones want to feel seen and valued, not sidelined by stress or distracted energy. Cultivating interpersonal warmth helps strengthen these foundational relationships too.
By committing to these five habits, you’re not just improving your interpersonal skills; you’re enriching the lives of those around you. That’s the kind of presence people remember and want more of.
We are rooting for you!
Avery and Brian