Interpersonal Skills

When working with and through others, the process can be either rewarding or frustrating depending upon the quality of the interpersonal relationships involved.  Many people are left to develop their own interpersonal skills through trial and error.  Resultant problems can be very costly to rectify.

This course identifies the core skills required to establish and maintain successful interpersonal relationships within the organisational context. Communication will be explored as a process of exchanging information and achieving shared understanding. Body language, voice tone and the particular use of verbal language will be focused on as critical tools influencing the outcome of any communication. The core skills of active listening, using effective questioning techniques, assertiveness and giving constructive feedback will be practised.

The course will be a highly participative one, in which a variety of learning formats will be used: information presentation, paired and small group work and whole group discussion.

Objectives:

• Clearly identify the range of skills used in interpersonal communication
• Identify the appropriate skills to use with staff in a range of contexts
• Analyse their own preferred communication styles and identify the skills they need to broaden their style choices
• Practise the skills of active listening, questioning and assertiveness
• Practise the skills required in giving constructive feedback
• Practise interpersonal skills within the context of handling a difficult member of staff