Networking and interpersonal skills: How are the two related?
To be successful in your career or in business these days is becoming increasingly more of a challenge.
Businesses have changed considerably, and global expansion has created large multinational companies that often have a matrix management system rather than a traditional tiered hierarchy of management. Products now come to the market faster, industries are expanding and partnerships are more common.
All this means it’s more important than ever for those wanting to advance their careers to have the ability to create meaningful professional relationships. Digital methods of communication will only take you so far. In the end, it all comes down to your ability to create a professional network and build trust within those relationships.
To do this, you must have well developed interpersonal skills
Interpersonal skills are the life skills we use every day when we communicate with others. It’s what we say, how we say it, our body language and our ability to read body language in others.
Interpersonal skills are a mixture of three key areas of talent:
Leadership – your ability to make decisions, delegate work, motivate others and mentor others
Networking – how you communicate, your ability to build a network and your self confidence
Teamwork – how you work with others, collaborate, delegate and participate in group work
All three areas and the abilities you have within them are what make up your interpersonal skills.
The great news is – you already have interpersonal skills. They are skills we develop subconsciously during childhood, and stem from the way we make friends, talk to others, ask for what we want and help others in need.
Refining and enhancing your interpersonal skills is essential for any kind of professional success. It’s important that you learn to listen, become aware of the way you speak to others, understand where you might be going wrong with your communication and remember the importance of non-verbal communication.
Improving your interpersonal skills will ultimately improve your ability to create professional networks and relationships, and will fast track you to career success. Networking is a learned behaviour, so take a look at our Corporate Training programs to find the course that best suits your needs. Or consider a Lunch & Learn session for your team. Details at www.relatus.com.au
Happy Netships!
Julia