Be open

• Identify at least one attribute you value in each of your team members, and let them know about it.
• Show colleagues you value their input by asking their opinion.
• Acknowledge people when they are in your presence – Good Morning; Good Afternoon; How are you today?’ How is your son doing? etc.

Provide room for increased self awareness

• Ask team members/clients  for feedback on your interpersonal skills.
• Research ways to increase your interpersonal skills.
• Create an action plan for developing your interpersonal skills.

Demonstrate empathy

• Show your genuine compassion to others.
• Listen in a way that will encourage people to talk – e.g. nod while the person is talking, look at him while he is talking, paraphrase what you have heard to demonstrate you were listening and that you clearly understood
• See the situation at hand, through the other person’s eyes.

This business tip is sponsored by BPD Associates Limited, a JobsTT partner.   If you want support in developing yourself and/or your team on this topic, please visit www.bpdassociates.com.