Interpersonal skills are the backbone of any thriving workplace. They shape the way we interact with colleagues, clients, and customers, helping to create a harmonious, productive environment.
When it comes time for a performance review, showcasing your interpersonal skills can make a significant impact.
Whether you’re an employee or a manager, understanding how these skills influence performance is crucial.
But have you ever wondered what specific interpersonal skills your boss is looking for in a performance review?
Or, if you’re a manager, how can you assess these skills fairly? In this article, we will dive deep into the essential interpersonal skills that will be evaluated during a performance review. I’ll also provide examples, practical tips, and mistakes to avoid.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s explore how interpersonal skills play a pivotal role in professional success.
Communication Skills
Effective communication is the cornerstone of every professional relationship. During your performance review, your ability to communicate clearly, listen actively, and convey information effectively is crucial.
- Verbal Communication
Verbal communication isn’t just about speaking; it’s about how well you express your ideas. Whether in meetings, presentations, or casual conversations, your ability to articulate thoughts is key. Managers want to see that you can communicate with clarity and purpose.
Example: If you’re presenting a new idea, do you express it in a way that is clear and easy to understand? Can you back up your points with data or reasoning? For instance, if you were working on a marketing campaign and had to present results, being clear about the metrics and how they correlate with business goals would be essential.
- Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal cues like body language, tone, and facial expressions can convey more than words alone. These cues can influence how others perceive you and your message. Positive body language such as making eye contact, nodding while someone speaks, and having an open posture all contribute to effective communication.
Example: In a performance review, a manager may observe your body language during the meeting. Do you engage with them with a positive and open posture, or do you seem closed off?
- Listening Skills
Communication is a two-way street. Listening carefully to others shows respect and empathy. During your review, a manager will likely assess how well you listen to others, whether it’s clients, colleagues, or subordinates. Active listening means understanding not just the words being said, but also the emotions and intentions behind them.
Example: Have you ever noticed that when people feel heard, they are more willing to cooperate? In a team meeting, actively listening to colleagues before giving your input can result in more productive discussions.
| Communication Skills | Example in Action | Why It Matters |
| Verbal Communication | Clear idea expression during meetings | Avoid misunderstandings, ensure clarity |
| Non-Verbal Communication | Maintaining eye contact during discussions | Builds trust and shows engagement |
| Listening Skills | Asking questions to confirm understanding | Strengthens relationships, prevents errors |
Teamwork and Collaboration
No business exists in a silo, and neither should any employee’s work. Teamwork is about working together towards a common goal. In your performance review, demonstrating your ability to work with others can show how you contribute to the bigger picture.
- Team Cooperation
Cooperation means that you can work effectively with your colleagues to achieve shared goals. It’s not just about working on tasks but also being open to other people’s ideas and offering assistance when needed.
Example: If you’re working on a project with a team, how do you contribute to the success of the group? Are you the one who always ensures that deadlines are met? Do you actively offer help when a colleague is struggling?
- Conflict Resolution
Conflicts are bound to happen in any team. How you handle these conflicts speaks volumes about your interpersonal skills. A manager wants to know that you can address disagreements in a professional, constructive way.
Example: If a team member disagrees with your approach to a task, do you address the issue calmly and work towards a solution, or do you become defensive? A good team player would seek resolution while maintaining respect for all involved.
- Adaptability in Team Settings
Teams are dynamic, and being able to adapt to different roles, personalities, and situations is crucial. Whether it’s taking on a leadership role or playing a supportive role, showing flexibility is an important skill to demonstrate.
Example: During a project, perhaps the team’s approach needed to change due to new information. Were you able to adjust quickly and help the team move forward without resistance?
Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It’s an essential interpersonal skill that will set you apart during your performance review.
- Self-Awareness
Being aware of your own emotions, strengths, and weaknesses is the first step to emotional intelligence. This skill allows you to understand how your emotions affect your work and the people around you.
Example: If you’re feeling stressed, do you recognize it and take steps to calm down, or do you let it affect your work? The ability to control your emotions and remain professional is crucial, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and responding to their emotional needs. This is critical for building strong professional relationships.
Example: If a colleague is going through a tough time, do you acknowledge their emotions and offer support, or do you ignore it and focus only on your own tasks?
- Relationship Management
Building and maintaining positive relationships with colleagues, managers, and clients is key to long-term success. This skill involves effective communication, conflict management, and the ability to motivate and inspire others.
Example: Are you the person who makes an effort to connect with others in your team, not just about work but on a personal level too? Building strong relationships fosters a collaborative and positive work culture.
Problem-Solving and Decision Making
Every role involves some level of problem-solving. Whether you’re troubleshooting technical issues, solving client complaints, or figuring out how to improve team performance, how you approach these challenges will be evaluated in your performance review.
- Creative Thinking
Managers value employees who think outside the box. Creative thinking isn’t just about being innovative; it’s about finding effective solutions to problems and doing things differently to improve outcomes.
Example: Suppose you were tasked with improving a customer service process. Did you come up with a new approach that streamlined the process and benefited both the team and the customers?
- Analytical Skills
Analytical thinking involves breaking down complex issues and identifying patterns or solutions. It’s about looking at a problem from multiple angles and choosing the most effective course of action.
Example: When faced with a challenge, do you analyze the data or feedback available and make decisions based on facts? Strong analytical skills help minimize risk and drive better decision-making.
- Decision-Making Under Pressure
Often, you will be required to make quick decisions under tight deadlines. The ability to stay calm, assess the situation, and make the best decision is crucial in a fast-paced environment.
Example: During a high-pressure situation, did you stay calm and make a decision that positively impacted the project, or did you struggle with indecision?
Professionalism and Work Ethic
Professionalism encompasses a range of interpersonal skills that demonstrate your commitment to your job, your integrity, and your respect for others.
- Reliability
Managers appreciate employees who are dependable and can be counted on to follow through on commitments. Being reliable means showing up on time, meeting deadlines, and fulfilling your responsibilities.
Example: If you’ve been given a task with a tight deadline, do you make sure to meet it, or do you struggle with time management?
- Accountability
Taking responsibility for your actions is essential in building trust. Owning up to mistakes and finding ways to improve shows maturity and professionalism.
Example: If you missed a deadline or made a mistake, do you acknowledge it and work to make things right, or do you try to shift the blame?
- Time Management
Effective time management helps you prioritize tasks and work more efficiently. This skill is crucial to maintaining a high level of productivity.
Example: Do you effectively prioritize tasks or often find yourself rushing to meet deadlines at the last minute?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When demonstrating interpersonal skills during a performance review, there are common mistakes to avoid:
- Being Overly Critical of Others
While self-awareness is key, criticizing others too harshly can create a negative impression. Always offer constructive feedback and maintain a positive tone. - Not Taking Initiative
Simply following orders isn’t enough. Showing initiative and suggesting improvements demonstrates leadership potential and commitment. - Failing to Adapt
The workplace is dynamic, and your ability to adapt to changing environments is crucial. Managers look for employees who are flexible and resilient when faced with change.
Conclusion: Your Interpersonal Skills Matter
Interpersonal skills are not just a “nice-to-have” they’re a critical part of your professional success. By developing and showcasing skills like effective communication, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and professionalism, you can improve both your performance and relationships at work.
In your next performance review, make sure to highlight how you’ve demonstrated these skills. Managers value these traits because they help drive collaboration, problem-solving, and positive workplace culture.
Do you feel confident in your interpersonal skills? Or is there a specific area you want to improve?
Take action today pick one skill to focus on and work on it for the next month. You’ll see a noticeable difference in your performance review next time.
