Interpersonal Communication Skills

Introduction The challenge in succeeding in the job search-and landing a coveted first position post-graduation from university is not just about becoming technically proficient for a role but more about communicating to potential employers that we already have the most sought-after skills and abilities. Many social-impact organizations look for people who have transferable skills as well as the technical abilities. As new graduates, our focus should therefore be on the transferability of our current skills, from our current environment like the SENEX university course and extracurricular activities into the environment we would like to enter i.e. our target organisation.

Listening as an acquired skill

According to Hartel et al., one study

The importance of interpersonal skills will help one to gain an awareness of their own skills and understand that an awareness of the interpersonal skills of others can help enormously in dealing with the work tasks we are responsible for. Interpersonal communication is important because it helps a person communicate well and interact with others effectively within as well as without the workplace. Developing good interpersonal communication skills allows a person to engage with others productively at different levels. This skill set was enhanced during our village team work assigned at the beginning of the SENEX class. I was the designated village leader and was able to developing rapport with my village members, Listen and convey member feelings when they differed, provide support for others and motivate them in finishing our assignment even when a village member left the village. I also learnt to share credit when given because I was leader. I learned to delegate with respect even when asserting leadership. All these interpersonal skills will be transferable in an organisation setting in employment and well as in my own business in dealing with employees and other business