VOTED ONE OF THE MOST INSPIRATIONAL TED TALKS OF ALL TIME
Strong interpersonal skills assist leaders in forming relationships in the workplace. Interpersonal skills are those face-to-face skills we demonstrate when we communicate, interact, and share our thoughts, feelings, ideas, and emotions. Similar to social skills, good interpersonal skills can be learned and practiced to avoid social awkwardness. At work and at school, strong interpersonal skills are helpful during challenging moments, when problem-solving and during your day-to-day tasks.
Listen to Drew Dudley's TEDTalk, Everyday Leadership, and create a list, identifying the characteristics and skills you observe, both verbal and non-verbal, that make Drew a strong leader. Look closely at your list - are these examples of interpersonal skills? Why or why not?
Sometimes interpersonal skills are called "Soft Skills." Employers look for evidence of soft skills in job interviews so that they hire people who will contribute to strong relationships in a workplace and lead by example. The Northwest Training and Adjustment Board (NTAB) has released a Soft Skills Training Video to help you get ready for that upcoming job interview. As a potential employee, highlighting your interpersonal skills demonstrates you are a leader in the making! Make some notes - these tips will be helpful when you head out to your work placement or to an interview.
Create a reading response chart by dividing your page in half down the middle. Watch the video, 10 Social Skills for Student Leaders and read the "5 Lessons in Life" from Dr. Seuss. On the left side of your page, record ideas or thoughts from these resources that you agree with, or believe to be true. On the right side of the page, record ideas or thoughts that cause you to think or ideas that challenge what you believe.
You'll be revisiting this reading response chart in the upcoming Assessment Activities.