How to Develop Interpersonal Skills

Summary

Simon Phillips explains that interpersonal skills are important for working well with others and can be strengthened through everyday practice. Communication is central: it involves exchanging ideas and information, listening, and understanding the meaning behind someone’s message.

Strategies for Developing Interpersonal Skills

• Use the workplace as a practice ground. Everyday work offers opportunities to collaborate, negotiate, solve problems, and handle difficult conversations—in person, online, or virtually.
• Practice deliberately. Choose a skill to focus on and put time and effort into improving it rather than expecting it to develop automatically.
• Listen actively. Pay attention to what people say and try to understand their perspectives.
• Ask for feedback. Seek specific feedback from colleagues about what you do well and where you could improve.
• Use support and learning resources. Coaching, workshops, podcasts, and other professional-development resources can help you continue building your skills.

Areas to Develop

The video names 12 areas for developing interpersonal skills:

• Relationship building
• Problem-solving
• Collaboration
• Difficult conversations
• Negotiation
• Listening
• Leadership
• Decision-making
• Conflict resolution
• Influencing or persuasion
• Inspiring others
• Building trust

Presenter and Sources

Presenter: Simon Phillips

The video draws on workplace interactions and feedback, as well as coaching, workshops, podcasts, and other professional-development resources.