Interpersonal is the third area that contributes to emotional intelligence. This is about how we interact with others. Here, we examine our social graces.

These competencies make up the interpersonal area of the EQ model:

• Interpersonal relationships
• Empathy
• Social responsibility

Let’s begin with the first competency under the Interpersonal Composite and discuss Interpersonal Relationships.

Interpersonal relationships can pertain to every relationship in your life; it can be a more personal relationship, like marriage, or a less intimate relationship, like co-workers. It is based on the amount of connection you have with another person.

Improving your competency in Interpersonal Relationships allows you to develop and maintain great, mutually satisfying relationships.

WHY IS IT VALUABLE TO HAVE INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS?

People, who develop strong interpersonal relationships with the majority of people they meet, tend to be more successful and happier in all aspects of life. Building a deeper connection with the people in your life will help build a more meaningful relationship.

HOW TO ENHANCE YOUR INTERPERSONAL SKILLS:

• Communication is the most important aspect in any relationship. The more you are willing to open up, the more of a connection will be built. When someone has effective communication skills, people tend to gravitate toward you and want to develop a deeper relationship.
• Non-verbal Communication is just as important as verbal communication. Your facial expressions and body language show how you actually feel. When spending time with someone, watch what you are NOT saying in words, but are communicating non-verbally. Negative non-verbal communication can damage the connection you have with them.
• Commit to every relationship you have. It is really easy for people to get caught up in life that they tend to unintentionally distance themselves from relationships. Make time for people; the only way to create and maintain a connection is to commit to the relationship.
• Being open-minded will help strengthen the relationship. Every person is different and they may have different views and opinions than you. Having an open mind and welcoming different views will allow the relationship to grow and become more meaningful.

If this post has you curious and you’d like to learn more, watch my video on leading with emotional intelligence (training program available in both face-to-face and online delivery formats): Leading with Emotional Intelligence.

Join me next time as I continue to break down the interpersonal emotional intelligence area, and explore the second competency in this area, empathy. Until then, follow these tips, and expect to connect.
Learn more about emotional intelligence in my previous blogs:

• A Leader’s New Best Friend
• What’s Your Score?
• What Really Matters
• Once You Know Better, You Do Better
• Can You Express Your Feelings?
• Are You Assertive?
• Freedom = Independence