The term ‘Interpersonal Skills’ is used often in a business context to refer to a person's ability to operate within business organisations through social communication and interactions.  Sound interpersonal skills are the means by which people relate effectively to one another.

People in organisations typically spend over seventy five percent of their time in an interpersonal situation… so it is no surprise to discover that poor communication skills are at the root of a large number of organisational problems.  The ability of individuals to communicate effectively is an essential component of organisational success at all levels, whether between people (interpersonal), between groups (intergroup), within a group (intragroup), or organisation to organisation (organisational).

It is generally understood and recognised that communicating respect for other people or professionals within the workplace will help reduce conflict and increase participation of individuals and / or help in obtaining information or completing tasks.  Having effective interpersonal skills increases an organisation’s productivity, since the number of conflicts is reduced. 

In informal situations, it allows communication between people to be easy and comfortable.  People with good interpersonal skills can generally control the feelings that emerge in difficult situations and respond appropriately, instead of being overwhelmed by emotion.  The art of effective communication does not depend on getting noticed with the use of impressive words.  Rather, it is reflected in your ability to get a point across as concisely, politely and clearly as possible.

Benefits of effective interpersonal skills include:

• avoids or clarifies any misunderstandings
• sets a clear direction ahead
• enables individuals / teams to be aligned with team / organisational vision, ethos and values
• enables work towards a “win win” outcome
• allows for clear and specific communication processes
• focuses on creative ways of sorting out conflict
• enables parties involved to test assumptions in a respectful manner

Blue Tulip Training provides training and coaching for individuals and /or teams to help develop communication skills, resulting in increased personal confidence and more effective team relationships.  Training and coaching sessions can incorporate:

• developing assertiveness skills
• how to communicate effectively
• presenting to groups with confidence
• personal effectiveness
• conflict resolution

Some sessions are specifically geared around career progression and are organised with women or staff from a Black or Minority Ethnic background in mind.  These sessions focus on:

• effective career management
• overcoming personal barriers to success
• capitalising on opportunities for career advancement
• maximising job satisfaction