{"id":2345,"date":"2022-01-21T16:26:30","date_gmt":"2022-01-21T16:26:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/?p=2345"},"modified":"2025-10-20T00:00:00","modified_gmt":"2025-10-20T00:00:00","slug":"interpersonal-communication","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/interpersonal-communication\/","title":{"rendered":"Interpersonal Communication: Definition, Skills &amp; Examples"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Do you feel like your or your teammates\u2019 communication efforts often get misunderstood?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re working on site, or in a <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/hybrid-remote-work-models\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">hybrid or remote model<\/a>, good interpersonal communication is essential for building a strong team and achieving business success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this article, we\u2019ll cover:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The definition of interpersonal communication,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The styles and types of interpersonal communication, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The importance and benefits of good interpersonal communication.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>By the end of this article, you\u2019ll find out how to improve interpersonal communication skills and turn them into your career superpower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s get to it!<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Interpersonal-Communication_-Definition-Skills-Examples-cover.jpg\" alt=\"Interpersonal Communication_ Definition, Skills &amp; Examples - cover\" class=\"wp-image-20157\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Interpersonal-Communication_-Definition-Skills-Examples-cover.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Interpersonal-Communication_-Definition-Skills-Examples-cover-600x300.jpg 600w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Interpersonal-Communication_-Definition-Skills-Examples-cover-1110x555.jpg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Interpersonal-Communication_-Definition-Skills-Examples-cover-768x384.jpg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Interpersonal-Communication_-Definition-Skills-Examples-cover-18x9.jpg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list key-takeaways\">\n<li>Aside from verbal and nonverbal communication, interpersonal communication includes visual communication and active listening.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Interpersonal communication enables effective information exchange and building relationships, and it fosters collaboration and productivity.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To improve interpersonal communication, you should start with self-analysis to figure out what you and your team need to work on. You can then observe others and consider applying their way of interacting. Schedule regular team meetings to promote team cohesion and get to know the details of different communication styles. Finally, you should learn to remain in control of your emotions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-is-interpersonal-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is interpersonal communication?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Interpersonal communication is the exchange of verbal and non-verbal information between two or more people<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In this process, people exchange thoughts, opinions, feelings, ideas, and information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To develop a smoother interpersonal communication in your team, all individual members will need to balance their different communication preferences and find a way to make them work together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To manage this, you can start by understanding the types of interpersonal communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-types-of-interpersonal-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the types of interpersonal communication?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>4 main types of interpersonal communication are<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nonverbal<\/strong> <strong>communication <\/strong>\u2013 <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/body-language-virtual-meetings\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">body language<\/a>, eye contact, facial expressions, signs, or similar,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/verbal-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Verbal communication<\/strong><\/a> \u2013 using words to convey information, including spoken language, and even written communication by some definitions,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/visual-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Visual communication<\/strong><\/a> \u2013 conveying information through images, charts, and any other visual aids, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/active-listening\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Active listening<\/strong><\/a><strong> \u2013 <\/strong>a unique combination of multiple skills that builds trust and makes the speaker feel heard and understood.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Enable seamless team communication with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"the-most-valuable-interpersonal-communication-skills\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The most valuable interpersonal communication skills<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Interpersonal communication skills are abilities that people develop to effectively interact with others<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re just entering the workforce or you\u2019ve been working for decades, good interpersonal communication skills will always put you at an advantage in the workplace.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even if interpersonal communication isn&#8217;t really your strength \u2014 don\u2019t worry. Good communicators are made, not born.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The most important interpersonal communication skills in a workplace are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Active listening,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Being receptive to feedback,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Conflict management,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dependability,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Empathy,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leadership skills,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Negotiation, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Teamwork.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s take a closer look at each one and how each of them can be improved to <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/skills-of-effective-communicators\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">become a more effective communicator<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-1-active-listening\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #1: Active listening<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Fairly often, instead of listening to our interlocutor carefully, we think about what we\u2019re going to say next, where we should go for lunch, or something else completely unrelated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Active listening requires being fully immersed in the conversation and thinking about what the person is saying \u2014 not just waiting for your turn to talk.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To become a better listener, you should pay attention to the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Make eye contact<\/strong>. That shows you\u2019re present and attentive. However, make sure to look away from time to time, as constant eye contact can be intimidating.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Notice the other person\u2019s body language<\/strong>. Sometimes, nonverbal cues tell you more than words can.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don\u2019t interrupt<\/strong>. Regardless of whether you remembered something very important or if you came to a conclusion: wait for the other person to finish. Interrupting is rude and can be frustrating for the speaker.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Clarify what the other person is saying<\/strong>. You can ask questions, paraphrase, or summarize what has been said to make sure you\u2019re on the same page.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Stay focused<\/strong>. Concentrate on what the person is saying and try to understand where they are coming from.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ask open-ended questions<\/strong>. Contribute to the conversation and try to find common ground with the speaker.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Developing good active listening skills will make your colleagues feel valued, and you will understand your interlocutors much better than before. In other words, mastering active listening will improve your interpersonal communication efforts and help you form stronger professional bonds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-features\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Empower team communication<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Discuss, share &amp; collaborate with Pumble, a team communication app.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-2-giving-and-receiving-feedback\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #2: Giving and receiving feedback&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Being criticized rarely feels good, but it\u2019s important to learn to manage our emotions when receiving feedback and look at our work as objectively as we can.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you receive feedback, try to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Step back and process it<\/strong>. Try not to act on impulse.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Think about where feedback is coming from<\/strong>. Just as you shouldn\u2019t automatically reject feedback, you shouldn\u2019t automatically accept it either. Ask yourself, does that person have the credibility and knowledge to give valid criticism? Do other people think so too?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/say-thank-you-professionally\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Say \u201c<em>Thank you<\/em>\u201d professionally<\/strong><\/a>. You can also explain your point of view, but don\u2019t argue or get defensive.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>With that in mind, if you\u2019re in a position to give feedback, it\u2019s important to be empathetic.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We talked to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jamielevin\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jamie Levin<\/a>, a communicator consultant with over 10 years of experience in corporate communication. She emphasized the importance of putting ourselves in the audience\u2019s shoes while giving feedback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns pro-blockquote is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"400\" height=\"400\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Jamie-Levin.jpeg\" alt=\"Jamie Levin\" class=\"wp-image-10664\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Jamie-Levin.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Jamie-Levin-300x300.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Jamie-Levin-150x150.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Jamie-Levin-12x12.jpeg 12w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201c<em>When giving feedback, it is extremely important to consider your audience and how they receive information. Are they easily offended? You might need to soften the blow. Do they prefer one-on-one communication? Avoid providing feedback in a group. So much of the acceptance of feedback is dependent upon our interpersonal communications skills.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Simplify the feedback process with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For further reading on how to give or ask for feedback in the workplace, check out our blog posts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/remote-constructive-feedback\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Give Constructive Feedback in the Workplace: Best Examples and Tips<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/feedback-vs-feedforward\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Feedback vs Feedforward: Moving From Feedback to Feedforward<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/ask-manager-for-feedback\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Ask Your Manager for Feedback<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-3-conflict-management\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #3: Conflict management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Conflict management is the <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/collaboration\/team-conflict\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">practice of resolving conflicts<\/a> sensibly and efficiently. Conflicts are often unavoidable, so being able to manage and solve them is an incredibly valuable skill to have.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To start, here are a few steps you can follow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Understand the source of the conflict<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Don\u2019t add fuel to the fire.<\/strong> Try to de-escalate the situation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Estimate whether to talk to people alone or together.<\/strong> Your decision will depend on the temperaments of those involved and the effect each approach might have.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Listen carefully<\/strong>. Make sure everyone gets an opportunity to share their side of the story.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Analyze the conflict<\/strong>. What is the conflict really about? What could be the motivation for both parties to settle the conflict? What conflict management strategies have been tried in the past and how successful were they?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Promote patience and understanding.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Try to determine the solution<\/strong> that works for everyone.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to get better at conflict resolution, check out the following blog:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/phrases-to-use-to-diffuse-conflict-at-work\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">15 Conflict Resolution Phrases to Use to Defuse Conflict at Work<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-4-dependability\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #4: Dependability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Being dependable means you can be trusted to do something and people can count on you. A study by Google on team effectiveness, known as <em>Project Aristotle<\/em>, lists <a href=\"https:\/\/rework.withgoogle.com\/intl\/en\/guides\/understanding-team-effectiveness\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">dependability among the best employee qualities<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How can you become a more dependable person? A few things you can do are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Always show up on time<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Never miss a deadline<\/strong>. If something unexpected happens and you can\u2019t make it, let your team know as soon as you can.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Follow the company\u2019s policies<\/strong> \u2014 they are there for a reason.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Make sure your work is always high quality. <\/strong>This is more important than making deadlines at all costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Offer help to your teammates.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Be consistent<\/strong> \u2014 what you say and what you do should always be in alignment.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Being dependable is an invaluable skill to any team or business. Being someone people can rely on and trust:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Builds your reputation and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increases how you are valued by your team in the long run.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-light pumble-gradient-templates\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Make communication easier<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Simplify team communication and collaborate more effectively. Try Pumble by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-5-empathy\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #5: Empathy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Simply put, empathy is the ability to connect with and understand other people, as well as <strong>recognize what the other person is feeling or experiencing<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But, what is the connection between being able to put yourself in others\u2019 shoes and being successful in business?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.forbes.com\/councils\/forbesbusinesscouncil\/2022\/03\/22\/the-power-of-empathy-for-business-growth\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Forbes<\/a>, empathy helps us better understand people, which also helps us <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/effective-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communicate more effectively<\/a>, as well as be innovative and competitive in business.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The article also states that you can connect and establish an environment of interest by developing an empathetic approach in your business \u2014 as this allows others to feel heard and welcomed. Considering other viewpoints without being judgmental will allow you to hear and pick up fresh ideas that can have a profound effect on improving your team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about empathetic communication and how to develop empathic communication skills at work, read our blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/empathic-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fostering Empathic Communication in the Workplace<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-6-leadership-skills\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #6: Leadership skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Effective leaders are a crucial part of any successful organization \u2014 they create a productive work environment, <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/employee-communication-and-engagement\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">increase employee engagement<\/a>, and motivate everyone to do their best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you aim to be a great leader, some of the qualities you have to possess are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Efficient problem solving,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/communication-styles-for-leaders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Excellent communication skills<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ability to motivate others,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Integrity,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reliability,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Resilience,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Good decision-making skills,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ability to teach and mentor, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/emotional-intelligence-in-the-workplace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Emotional intelligence<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Not an easy job \u2014 but that\u2019s why <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/how-to-be-a-good-manager\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">good leaders<\/a> are so valuable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lead your team effortlessly with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-7-negotiation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #7: Negotiation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you want a raise at work or you\u2019re looking to get a discount for something in the local shop, negotiation skills are something all of us can benefit from in the workplace and outside of it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/online.hbs.edu\/blog\/post\/negotiation-skills\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Harvard Business School Online<\/a>, the key principles of successful negotiation are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Effective communication<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Emotional intelligence and the ability to control your emotions<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Planning ahead and having a clear idea of what you want to achieve<\/strong>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Creating value <\/strong>\u2014 ideally, coming up with the solution that benefits both parties,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Strong strategy<\/strong> \u2014 defining your role, understanding your value, and understanding the other person\u2019s vantage point, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reflection<\/strong> \u2014 thinking about your past negotiation and identifying areas that need improvement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing how to negotiate better will develop the very foundation of your interpersonal skills by compelling you to take different points of view into account. To negotiate successfully, you will have to consider various perspectives at the same time and strive to create a win-win scenario. This is in no way an easy task, but practice makes perfect!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"skill-8-teamwork\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Skill #8: Teamwork<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For a lot of jobs, one of the most crucial interpersonal skills is being able to function within a team.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Being good at teamwork requires:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Showing empathy,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/transparent-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Communicating clearly and transparently<\/a>,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/work-from-home-accountability\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Being accountable<\/a> and responsible,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adaptability to newly formed situations,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Encouraging others to share their input and listening well,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Being honest but respectful,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wanting to help others, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Having a collaborative instead of a self-centered approach.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If one of your teammates is struggling with some of these qualities, try to analyze what they could work on to improve, and how. A good starting point is to promote behavior opposite to the detrimental one, and lead with a positive example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To find out which important factors contribute to collaboration and how to foster teamwork, read our article:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/collaboration\/fostering-teamwork-and-collaboration\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fostering Teamwork and Collaboration in the Workplace<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Foster team collaboration with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"what-are-the-elements-of-interpersonal-communication\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What are the elements of interpersonal communication?&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In order to improve interpersonal communication in your team, it can be helpful to look at the communication process from various perspectives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, you might find that external factors are the main issues in your team. Alternatively, maybe one of your teammates isn\u2019t that good at giving and receiving feedback, and that\u2019s what\u2019s causing trouble in your team communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-situations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication situation<\/a> between two or more people includes the following elements:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Communicators <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>the people exchanging information,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The message<\/strong> \u2013 the core idea being shared and discussed,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Noise <\/strong>\u2013 factors that obstruct the meaning of the message (a noisy environment, complicated words, misunderstood body language, etc.),<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The communication channel <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>the medium by which the message is transferred (in-person conversation, video call, communication app, phone call, etc.),&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Context <\/strong>\u2013 elements such as time, place, culture, or roles of the communicators, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Feedback <\/strong>\u2013<strong> <\/strong>the response of the person receiving the message.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Each of these elements can be a potential source of friction during communication. Understanding where the problem occurs can help you address any <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-barriers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication barriers<\/a> that hurt your teamwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p><strong>\ud83c\udf93 Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For further reading on the communication process make sure to check out our blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-process\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Communication Process: Definition, Steps, and Importance<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"5-tips-to-improve-interpersonal-communication-in-the-workplace\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">5 Tips to improve interpersonal communication in the workplace<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Interpersonal communication is vital for success, both on an individual and organization-wide level.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If it\u2019s not your or your team\u2019s biggest strength, the <strong>5 main tips to improve interpersonal communication in the workplace<\/strong> are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Find out what you or your team need to improve,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work on your <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-skills\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communication skills<\/a> by observing others,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Schedule regular team meetings and team-building activities,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn to control your emotions, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand different communication styles.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Let\u2019s dig deeper into each one of these tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-1-find-out-what-you-or-your-team-need-to-improve\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #1: Find out what you or your team need to improve<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you do anything, you need to (as objectively as you can) figure out what your team needs to work on.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ask yourself questions like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Do any of your team members have trouble initiating conversations?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is anyone too hot-headed and often says something they don\u2019t actually mean?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Does anyone struggle with listening attentively?&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is anyone passive-aggressive? How often do they interrupt others?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Pay attention to the way your team interacts and<strong> see what you can change<\/strong>. You can even speak to the rest of the team and hear their opinions on what could be changed to <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/collaboration\/effective-team-dynamics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">improve your team dynamics<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-landing-1\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Communication made easy<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Empower your team and boost productivity in real time. Try Pumble by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-stretch \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-2-work-on-your-communication-skills-by-observing-others\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #2: Work on your communication skills by observing others<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As an introvert who worked hard to develop my communication skills, I can say that these two things are game-changers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Observing what effective communicators do<\/strong> and how they interact, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practicing<\/strong> my communication skills.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Think about people in your surroundings who have great communication skills. What do they do? How do they interact with others? How do they behave in certain social situations? What does their body language look like?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When you get the chance, try to apply some of the things they do. Be patient \u2014 it takes a lot of practice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, don\u2019t try to do 10 things at once \u2014 start with one. For example, make an effort to \u201copen up\u201d your body language. When you get comfortable with that, move on to the next communication skill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-3-schedule-regular-team-meetings-and-team-building-activities\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #3: Schedule regular team meetings and team-building activities<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In order to understand your team better, you can schedule regular team meetings and team-building activities.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is especially important if you\u2019re working remotely. It\u2019s hard to talk to someone in a relaxed way if you see them once every two months (and even then, only from the shoulders up).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The more you see each other, the more comfortable you will get around each other, which will result in better and more open communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/video-conferencing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Schedule regular meetings with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for ideas for team-building activities and games, check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-team-building-activities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">40+ Best Team-Building Games for Improving Communication<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/virtual-team-bonding-activities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">32 Best Virtual Team-Building Activities<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-4-learn-to-control-your-emotions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #4: Learn to control your emotions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are emotional, stressed out, or upset, it\u2019s unlikely that you\u2019ll be able to hold a productive and efficient conversation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And communication in the workplace should be just that \u2014 constructive and professional. Emotional outbursts are a no-go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learning to regulate your emotions is a long and hard process, but for a quick fix, you can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Identify your emotions<\/strong> by asking yourself the following questions:<br>What are you feeling right now?<br>What made you feel that way?<br>What do you want to do about these feelings? (e.g. scream, cry, vent to someone, etc.)<br>Is there a better way to deal with these emotions?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Accept your emotions<\/strong>. Repressing them is not only unproductive but also unhealthy.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Give yourself some space to process<\/strong> what you\u2019re feeling.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Learn a deep breathing technique<\/strong> that will help you calm down.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"tip-5-understand-different-communication-styles\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tip #5: Understand different communication styles<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like people have different personalities, they also have different ways of communicating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your extroverted coworkers might prefer talking face-to-face or via <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/video-conferencing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">video calls<\/a>, while emails and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/team-collaboration-software\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">team collaboration software<\/a> might work better for the introverted part of the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Use Pumble to unify different communication styles<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, some people rely on <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/assertive-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">assertive communication<\/a>, while others can be passive-aggressive. Some are talkative, while others are quiet.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to take your communication skills to the next level, you have to make an effort to understand the way people around you communicate. Doing that might help you understand <em>why<\/em> people are the way they are \u2014 perhaps you\u2019ll find out that that one coworker doesn\u2019t dislike you, they just dislike talking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Get to know your team and their individual communication styles \u2014 it will definitely help you interact and collaborate better.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are curious to learn more about different communication styles, our guide might help:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-styles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Understanding Different Styles of Communication<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-landing-2\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Boost team productivity<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Boost teamwork and simplify communication by switching your team to Pumble.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-middle \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-2@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-2.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"interpersonal-communication-styles\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Interpersonal communication styles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To better understand the potential misalignments in your team&#8217;s communication, you can also consider the <strong>differences in interpersonal communication styles<\/strong> of your team members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The issue could be that your team members are simply using an inappropriate communication style for situations where they aren\u2019t helpful, thus creating unnecessary friction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In their book<em> <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.goodreads.com\/book\/show\/1999039.Management\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>Management: Function and Strategy<\/em><\/a>, Bateman and Zeithaml identified 6 styles of interpersonal communication that are used in business settings:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Controlling<\/strong>,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Egalitarian<\/strong>,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Structuring<\/strong>,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dynamic<\/strong>,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Relinquishing<\/strong>, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Withdrawal<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Each one of these has its use in certain circumstances. Let\u2019s take a closer look at each one, so you can see if your team benefits from them or misuses any.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"style-1-controlling\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Style #1: Controlling<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Controlling communication style involves one-way communication and is typically used by those in power.<\/strong> The purpose of this style is to direct others or give orders. This style of communication is the most useful during <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/crisis-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">times of crisis<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, managers might need to use a controlling communication style while giving instructions on how to complete tasks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"668\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Controlling-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg\" alt=\"An example of the controlling communication style on Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20166\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Controlling-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Controlling-communication-style-in-Pumble-539x300.jpeg 539w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Controlling-communication-style-in-Pumble-1110x618.jpeg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Controlling-communication-style-in-Pumble-768x428.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Controlling-communication-style-in-Pumble-18x10.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the controlling communication style on Pumble, a team communication app by CAKE.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A bad use of this communication style can occur between two colleagues on the same hierarchy level \u2013 where one is unnecessarily strict to an individual or in a group.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"style-2-egalitarian\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Style #2: Egalitarian&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Egalitarian communication style is <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/two-way-communication\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>two-way<\/strong><\/a><strong>, interactive, and cooperative. It encourages feedback and sharing thoughts and opinions.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Due to its collaborative nature, this style is often more effective than the controlling one, especially in environments that require teamwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For instance, you can use the egalitarian communication style to discuss the status of the current project with your teammate.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"725\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Egalitarian-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg\" alt=\"An example of the egalitarian communication style in Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20167\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Egalitarian-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Egalitarian-communication-style-in-Pumble-497x300.jpeg 497w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Egalitarian-communication-style-in-Pumble-1110x671.jpeg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Egalitarian-communication-style-in-Pumble-768x464.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Egalitarian-communication-style-in-Pumble-18x12.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the egalitarian communication style in Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A misuse of this style often involves managers that are too lenient, even when dealing with crisis situations, which can result in a series of conflicts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Effectively handle crisis situations with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"style-3-structuring\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Style #3: Structuring<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Structuring communication<strong> <\/strong>style\u2019s purpose is to:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Establish schedules,&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Impose organization, <\/strong>and<strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inform everyone of goals and procedures in the company.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It works best when it\u2019s combined with the egalitarian style \u2014 those two together create a balanced and productive <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/company-culture\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">company culture<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, managers use the structuring communication style when sharing company policies and schedules.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"602\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Structuring-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg\" alt=\"An example of the structuring communication style in Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20168\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Structuring-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Structuring-communication-style-in-Pumble-598x300.jpeg 598w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Structuring-communication-style-in-Pumble-1110x557.jpeg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Structuring-communication-style-in-Pumble-768x385.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Structuring-communication-style-in-Pumble-18x9.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the structuring communication style in Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A bad use of this communication style would be someone unqualified or unauthorized giving orders without regard for the chain of command or respect for the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"style-4-dynamic\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Style #4: Dynamic<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Dynamic communication style is high-energy, with a goal to motivate and inspire others to do something.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s typically used by managers who want to energize and boost their team members\u2019 motivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>However, make sure to use it wisely<\/strong> \u2014 it can be ineffective if your audience doesn\u2019t have enough knowledge or experience to successfully take action.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"635\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg\" alt=\"An example of the dynamic communication style in Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20169\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble-567x300.jpeg 567w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble-1110x587.jpeg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble-285x150.jpeg 285w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble-768x406.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Dynamic-communication-style-in-Pumble-18x10.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the dynamic communication style in Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A bad use of this communication style involves someone being overly enthusiastic without being realistic. This often raises eyebrows, especially if the environment is already negative.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Best advice here would be to \u201cread the room\u201d when opting for this communication style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"banner banner-dark pumble-gradient-landing-3\">\n    <div class=\"banner-text lg:pr-[6rem]\">\n        <span class=\"h4 text-lg translation-block mb-0\">Simplify work with Pumble by CAKE.com<\/span>\n        <p class=\"translation-block mt-1 mb-3\">Strengthen your team. Try Pumble, the all-in-one communication app.<\/p>\n\n        <div class=\"banner-buttons d-flex gap-4 align-items-center translation-block justify-content-center justify-content-sm-start\">\n            <a class=\"bg-white rounded px-3 py-1 text-gray-dark\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\">Sign up<\/a>\n\n                            <a class=\"button-2\" href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\">Learn more<\/a>\n                    <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"banner-image banner-image-bottom \">\n        <picture>\n            <source srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-3@2x.png 2x\" alt=\"Illustration\"  media=\"(min-width: 1022px)\" \/>\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-3.png\"  alt=\"Illustration\" \/>\n        <\/picture>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n    \n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"style-5-relinquishing\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Style #5: Relinquishing&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Relinquishing communication style implies being highly receptive to the ideas of others <\/strong>\u2014 sometimes, to the point where others take the initiative, while the manager listens and makes comments here and there.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This style is effective when team members are dependable, responsible, and knowledgeable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, you can use the relinquishing interpersonal communication style to ask your teammates to share impressions about the first draft of a new website design you created.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"687\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Relinquishing-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg\" alt=\"An example of the relinquishing communication style in Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20170\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Relinquishing-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Relinquishing-communication-style-in-Pumble-524x300.jpeg 524w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Relinquishing-communication-style-in-Pumble-1110x635.jpeg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Relinquishing-communication-style-in-Pumble-768x440.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Relinquishing-communication-style-in-Pumble-18x10.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the relinquishing communication style in Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that the relinquishing style can backfire. For example, accepting detrimental or half-baked ideas just for the sake of agreeing and without looking at the broader implications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Discuss and develop ideas with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"style-6-withdrawal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Style #6: Withdrawal<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Withdrawal communication style is best described as \u2014 lack of communication<\/strong>. It can be a result of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Disinterest<\/strong>,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Passiveness<\/strong>, or&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unwillingness to participate in discussions<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, if you are about to share your ideas on a new website design, and your manager is unwilling to listen to what you have in mind, they use a withdrawal communication style.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"661\" src=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Withdrawal-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg\" alt=\"An example of the withdrawal communication style in Pumble, a team communication app\" class=\"wp-image-20171\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Withdrawal-communication-style-in-Pumble.jpeg 1200w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Withdrawal-communication-style-in-Pumble-545x300.jpeg 545w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Withdrawal-communication-style-in-Pumble-1110x611.jpeg 1110w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Withdrawal-communication-style-in-Pumble-768x423.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Withdrawal-communication-style-in-Pumble-18x10.jpeg 18w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">An example of the withdrawal communication style in Pumble, a team communication app<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Since this is mostly considered a \u201cbad\u201d style to begin with, a good use of this communication style would be when encountering an extremely aggressive communicator where avoidance is the best option.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"why-is-interpersonal-communication-important-at-work\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is interpersonal communication important at work?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let&#8217;s take a closer look at specific reasons successful teams always focus on developing strong interpersonal communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"reason-1-interpersonal-communication-boosts-productivity-and-efficiency\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reason #1: Interpersonal communication boosts productivity and efficiency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Good communication results in better information flow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When done right, interpersonal communication has a big role in sharing data and knowledge quickly and efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And, when you have all the information you need easily available, you can focus on doing your job \u2014 thus being more productive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, so many leaders recognize this, that, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gmac.com\/market-intelligence-and-research\/research-library\/employment-outlook\/2024-corporate-recruiters-survey-report\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey<\/em><\/a>, <strong>interpersonal\/teamwork<\/strong> <strong>skills<\/strong> are the 3rd most valued employee trait in the US, right after problem solving and communication skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more facts about workplace communication, check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/learn\/communication\/communication-statistics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Workplace Communication Statistics in 2025<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"reason-2-interpersonal-communication-facilitates-problem-solving\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reason #2: Interpersonal communication facilitates problem solving<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to problem solving and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/remote-decision-making-models\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">decision making<\/a>, good interpersonal skills are an invaluable asset.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Possessing such skills allows people to:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Adequately express themselves,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Precisely describe the problem,&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Discuss, and&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build on each other\u2019s ideas.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Open communication also ensures that the solution will benefit everyone involved (or at least try to).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Everyone should feel valued and comfortable sharing their input \u2014 if they aren\u2019t, <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/brainstorming-ideas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">brainstorming sessions<\/a> won\u2019t be a big success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Arguably, the best problem-solving technique is preventing problems \u2014 and <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/miscommunication-in-the-workplace\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">good communication prevents potential miscommunication,<\/a> misunderstandings, and confusion down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Simplify communication with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"reason-3-interpersonal-communication-builds-mutual-trust\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reason #3: Interpersonal communication builds mutual trust<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Regular interpersonal communication builds trust among coworkers. As stated in an <a href=\"https:\/\/ccsenet.org\/journal\/index.php\/ijbm\/article\/view\/10815\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">article in the International Journal of Business and Management<\/a>: <em>\u201cTrust and commitment do not just happen; they are forged and maintained through effective communication.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trusting people you work with comes with many benefits, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Decreased levels of stress and hostility,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Increased productivity and efficiency,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Giving and receiving support,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/boost-employee-morale\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Increased morale<\/a> and motivation,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/stop-micromanaging-your-remote-team\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Decreased micromanagement<\/a>, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Higher <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/employee-retention-strategies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">employee retention<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"reason-4-interpersonal-communication-forms-bonds-and-maintains-relationships\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reason #4: Interpersonal communication forms bonds and maintains relationships<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>No man is an island \u2014 especially in business. Networking can open doors you didn\u2019t even know existed, boosting your career better than any resume can.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Making (and maintaining) new contacts opens you up to new resources and fresh ideas \u2014 you may even be offered a great business opportunity before others. Your connections can also provide you with referrals, mentoring, training, and other opportunities for professional growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, you may develop some new, interesting friendships.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group pro-tip\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>\ud83c\udf93 <strong>Pumble Pro Tip<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about how to network effectively and how to network if you\u2019re shy, check our blog post:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/how-to-network\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Network Effectively to Advance in Your Career (+ Tips)<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>All things considered, interpersonal communication in the workplace is essential for effective exchange of information, which consequently boost our productivity and help us solve problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a result, it helps us build trust and maintain healthy relationships at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"develop-good-interpersonal-communication-with-pumble-by-cake-com\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Develop good interpersonal communication with Pumble by CAKE.com<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re looking for a way to implement interpersonal communication skills and get your team to collaborate efficiently, a reliable <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/business-messaging-app\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">business communication tool<\/a> can supercharge your progress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this purpose, look no further than <a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pumble<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/cake.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CAKE.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pumble is an all-in-one communication and collaboration tool with features that allow you to foster good interpersonal communication:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/channels\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Channels<\/a> \u2013 to improve organization by distributing relevant information to specific teams and subteams,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/threads\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Threads<\/a> \u2013 for giving immediate structured feedback within a message reply,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/group-meetings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Group video meetings<\/a> \u2013 to see all conversation participants at once and encourage active listening,<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/features\/schedule-a-message\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scheduled messages<\/a> \u2013 to perfectly time your messages, improve asynchronous communication, and promote understanding, and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/knowledge-sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Advanced search capabilities<\/a> \u2013 to revisit discussions you were part of and analyze them for further refinement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Pumble will help you practice and develop interpersonal communications skills with your team effectively and seamlessly, every day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Streamline your team\u2019s communication \u2014 try Pumble by CAKE.com today!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"custom-btn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/register\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Get started with Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Interpersonal communication is the exchange of verbal and non-verbal information between two or more people. Learn how you can improve it.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":20165,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2345","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-communication-tips"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2345","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2345"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2345\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":23315,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2345\/revisions\/23315"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20165"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2345"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2345"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2345"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}