What is Interpersonal Communication? Meaning, Skills, Types with Examples

Understanding interpersonal communication is more important than ever in a connected society. As we explore the skill of forming meaningful relationships and realizing your potential for success in all areas of life, learn about the transforming power of good communication.  

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What Is Interpersonal Communication? 

Interpersonal communication means the exchange of thoughts, emotions, and information between two or more individuals. Our personal and professional life depends on human ties. This type of communication requires verbal and non-verbal cues, including gestures, body language, and facial expressions. 

Interpersonal communication can take several forms, such as talking, bargaining, agreeing, and sharing. It requires the capacity to express oneself successfully, as well as active listening, empathy, clarity, and efficacy. It is crucial for establishing and preserving relationships, settling disputes, and promoting understanding and connection among people.

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What About Intrapersonal Communication? 

Intrapersonal communication is the term used to describe communication with oneself. It includes the internal dialogue we use to contemplate, mull over, and evaluate our ideas, feelings, and experiences. This type of communication also uses words, visuals, and non-verbal cues. 

Making decisions, reflecting on oneself, and growing personally, everything depends on intrapersonal dialogue. It allows us to reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs and can enhance our overall mental and emotional well-being. Through intrapersonal dialogue, we may better understand who we are, articulate our ideas, and gain understanding.

Types of Interpersonal Communication 

Depending on the situation and the individuals, interpersonal communication and interpersonal skills may take many different forms. These typical forms of interpersonal communication are listed below: 

• Verbal Communication: Written or spoken words are used in this kind of communication. Face-to-face interactions, calls, emails, letters, and presentations are all part of verbal communication. 

Example: An illustration of this might be a couple talking about their weekend plans. 

• Non-verbal Communication: Non-verbal communication comprises body language, tone of voice, gestures, and facial expressions. It frequently supports spoken communication and can express attitudes and emotions. 

Example: A person smiling and nodding during a conversation to show agreement. 

• Listening: Listening is a crucial aspect of interpersonal communication. It involves actively paying attention to others, understanding their message, and providing appropriate responses. 

Example: A friend listening attentively to another friend sharing their problems. 

• Assertive Communication: Assertive communication involves expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs respectfully and directly. It allows individuals to communicate their boundaries and preferences effectively. 
  Example: Politely but firmly stating personal opinions during a group discussion. 

How to Build Interpersonal Communication Skills?

Your connections and interactions with other people can improve considerably by developing good interpersonal communication skills. Here are some interpersonal skills examples: 

1. Giving the speaker your undivided attention, keeping eye contact, etc., are all examples of active listening. 
2. Put yourself in others’ shoes and try to comprehend their viewpoint and emotions. Acknowledge their emotions and give credence to their experiences to demonstrate empathy. 
3. Pay attention to your body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice when communicating nonverbally. Make sure they support the message you wish to deliver. 
4. To prevent misconceptions, be clear and succinct in your communication. For efficient expressions, use short and clear sentences. 
5. Develop skills to manage conflicts and disagreements constructively. Practice active listening, remain calm, and seek mutually beneficial solutions. 

Interpersonal Communication Tips for Remote Workers 

Remote employment is more prevalent now than ever before in the digital era. To cooperate and build partnerships, distant employees must have effective interpersonal communication. The following points can be beneficial for remote workers: 

• When it’s feasible, employ video conferencing software to conduct face-to-face meetings. This improves communication and forges a more intimate relationship. 
• Use clear communication channels, such as email, instant messaging services, or project management software, to facilitate effective communication and cooperation. 
• Plan frequent check-ins with your team to provide information, talk about problems, and maintain open lines of communication. 
• Engage in active discussion in forums, conferences, and chats online. Encourage others to give their ideas and opinions by acting similarly.

Elements of Interpersonal Communication 

Interpersonal communication comprises several elements that contribute to its effectiveness. These elements include 

• Sender: The sender is the individual who starts a conversation and gives the other person the message.
• Message: The information, concept, or feeling that the sender is attempting to convey is known as the message.
• Receiver: The individual who receives and understands the communication is known as the receiver. 
• Feedback: It is a term used to describe the receiver’s response or reaction. It tells you if the message was seen and how it was perceived, as well as whether it was comprehended. 
• Context: It encompasses the setting or situation where a discussion occurs, along with cultural expectations and personal connections that influence it. The environment, cultural norms, and interpersonal relationships are a part of the context. 

What Is Interpersonal Communication? The Four Principles of Interpersonal Communication 

Interpersonal communication involves exchanging information using both verbal as well as non-verbal cues. It enables constructive conversations that foster meaningful interactions while accurately managing emotional expressions. The four principles of interpersonal communication are 

1. Verbal and non-verbal cues integration: When people are communicating with one another, verbal and non-verbal cues are combined. An effective way to share messages during interpersonal communication is by integrating both body language (non-verbal) along with spoken words (verbal).
2. Feedback: Feedback is crucial in interpersonal communication. It allows the sender to gauge the receiver’s understanding and adapt their message accordingly. 
3. Interpersonal interactions can be symmetrical or complementary: Depending on the situation. Individuals in complementary relationships have opposing communication styles, whereas those in symmetrical interactions have comparable communication styles. 
4. Relationship Development: Building and maintaining relationships depend heavily on interpersonal communication. Building trust, understanding, and emotional connections between people may be accomplished via effective communication.  

Interpersonal Communication Examples 

Here are a few interpersonal communication examples in various scenarios: 

1. Casual Conversation: Two friends catching up and discussing their weekend plans. 
2. Job Interview: A candidate answering questions posed by an interviewer and showcasing their qualifications. 
3. Conflict Resolution: Two coworkers discussing a disagreement and finding a mutually acceptable solution. 
4. Romantic Relationship: A couple expressing their love and discussing their future together. 

Interpersonal Communication Uses 

Interpersonal communication serves various purposes in personal, professional, and social contexts. Some common uses include: 

• Establishing and Strengthening Relationships: Interpersonal communication helps establish and strengthen relationships by encouraging trust, intimacy, and understanding. 
• Information sharing: It makes it simpler for individuals or groups to exchange knowledge.
• Resolving Arguments: Achieving mutually beneficial solutions and resolving disagreements both depend heavily on interpersonal communication. 
• Emotional Expression: It enables people to communicate their needs, sentiments, and emotions to others, promoting emotional support and connection. 

Difference Between Interpersonal and Intrapersonal Communication 

Two different types of communication take place both within and between individuals: interpersonal and intrapersonal communication. They are similar, yet they also differ significantly. Let’s examine how intrapersonal and interpersonal communication differ from one another. Some significant distinctions between interpersonal and intrapersonal communication are listed below: 

Difference	Interpersonal Communication	Intrapersonal Communication
Participants	Involves at least two people sharing ideas and information.	Involves an individual conversing with themselves internally.
Setting	Takes place in social settings such as homes, workplaces, social events, and public areas.	Takes place within the person’s thoughts, unrestricted by any specific circumstance or environment.
Channels	Utilizes verbal and nonverbal cues among other channels.	Relies more on inner mind talking and internal processes.
Feedback	Involves direct and real-time feedback from participants through vocal and nonverbal cues.	Lacks instant external input, but self-reflection and introspection may result in emotional or cognitive feedback.
Relationship Dynamics	Focuses on establishing and maintaining connections between people through empathy, active listening, and understanding.	Primarily aims at self-awareness and personal development to comprehend one’s thoughts, feelings, and beliefs.

The Importance of Interpersonal Communication 

It acts as the foundation of human contact, allowing people to communicate, comprehend, and work together successfully. From intimate connections to work settings, interpersonal communication is essential in many facets of life.

Strong interpersonal communication abilities support understanding, trust, and healthy relationships. It enables people to openly communicate their thoughts, feelings, and needs, which helps in problem-solving and conflict resolution. Interpersonal communication is also essential for leadership, teamwork, and cooperation.

Individuals may successfully navigate social encounters, forge better bonds with others, and accomplish shared objectives by actively listening, empathizing, and articulating clearly with the help of interpersonal communication. 

Would You Like to Become a Project Manager? 

Being a project manager might be an alluring career choice for those interested in organizing, carrying out, and monitoring projects to make sure they are successful. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership abilities are needed for this position. Project managers have the chance to work with many teams, resolve challenging issues, and promote innovation.

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With courses, such as an MBA from Deakin Business School, you can enhance your qualifications and gain a competitive edge in pursuing a career as a project manager. The program equips you with essential business skills and strategic thinking capabilities to excel in this role.

Conclusion 

Human connection is built on interpersonal communication, which enables people to exchange ideas, emotions, and knowledge. Interpersonal communication skills may improve relationships, settle disputes, and promote understanding. Effective interpersonal communication is essential for establishing connections and attaining shared objectives, whether in a personal or professional setting. With a variety of courses available, upGrad has something for everyone, whether you’re a student, working professional, or aspiring leader. Don’t pass up the chance to improve your communication skills with courses like MBA from Liverpool Business School. To start the process of learning interpersonal communication, visit upGrad right away.