Find out the interpersonal skills that a manager needs to be effective in the execution of duties.

4 vital interpersonal skills of a manager

Interpersonal skills are essential for a manager as they offer a perfect platform to relate and communicate with employees, clients, and other managers in a better way. This will result in one being able to build long lasting relationships that have trust and respect as the foundation. An effective manager is the one who knows how to communicate with employees as well as motivating and disciplining them. To achieve this, there are four critical interpersonal skills that a manager ought to polish up that includes problem-solving, verbal communication, listening and non-verbal communication.


Non-Verbal Communication

In most occasions, this is one of the interpersonal skills that is often overlooked but vital. It involves things like tone, pitch, facial expression, gestures, clothing choices among others. It is a way of communication without having to say or utter words. For instance, a manager who keeps fidgeting during a conversation will come across as someone who is nervous or not confident. A manager who does not hold eye contact when conversing seems uninterested.

Problem solving

Managers encounter various problems at work, may it be sorting out a shift problem with employees, dealing with a returned order or calming an irate client. The manager will be required to solve all these in a professional and fair manner. A manager should have the ability to identify a problem, analyze it and then find a solution for it. Companies need managers who have polished this skill as they believe they’re important assets to the company.

Verbal communication

Being a manager, you are in a position of leadership, and this will require you to meet and converse with numerous people across various platforms. Here is where you will be required to make use of your verbal communication skills. You need to be clear, concise, focused, polite, and confident when communicating with others. Do not sound bossy or arrogant as it will lead to your staff not wanting to engage you on various office matters. People need not struggle to grasp whatever it is you will want to put across to them. This is a good way to cultivate a healthy relationship, especially in the workplace.

Listening skill

Many people fail to achieve the requirements of a particular task just because they failed to listen carefully. Listening skill is the ability to listen attentively and to do what you have been asked to do in the correct way. Active listening skill can prevent one from making possible mistakes as it offers the platform to ask questions or seek clarification on issues making the conversation more engaging and interesting. As a manager, you will be required to listen to issues that are brought to you by the employees and to come up with effective solutions for them.

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