Inter-Personal Communication

 Inter-Personal Communication

Introduction: 

Interpersonal communication is usually defined by communication experts in different ways. It takes place between participants who depend upon one another. It can involve one on one conversations or individuals. It can be interaction with many people within a society. It helps us understand how and why people behave and communicate in different ways to construct and build up a social reality. However, it also occurs within other contexts like groups and organizations. Interpersonal communication is the process that we use to communicate our ideas, thoughts, and feelings to another person. Our interpersonal communication skills are learned behaviors. So they can be improved through knowledge,practice, feedback and reflection.

Advantages/Benefits of Inter-personal Communication

Strong positive interpersonal relationships are essential to achieve our success. They may be work relationships or family relationships. They can also be relationships with others in our communities. We almost always remain in contact with others. We should make every contact an opportunity to strengthen our social skills and reinforce our relationships. With that in mind, here are ten benefits for having good interpersonal skills. They contribute to maintaining rewarding long-term relationships:

(i) Trust

Long-term relationships are based on trust. When we trust others, we are more relaxed. We are also comfortable and willing to be ourselves without any pretenses or not trying to maintain the false image of ourselves which we are not.

(ii) Acceptance

Once we experience trust with others, we can be honest about our weaknesses and shortcomings. That is because we are confident that we will be accepted for who we are, without judgment or criticism.

(iii) Support

Our lives go through many changes. Some of them are planned and some take us by surprise. In either case, they often take us out of our comfort zone and challenge us to grow and become more than we were before. Good, healthy relationships give us support and encouragement.

(iv) A Kind Ear

We often think of good communication skills as being able to speak well. That's only half of it. The ability to listen well is the other half. Having someone who will listen non-judgmentally when you are feeling down or frustrated and want to "vent" gives you the freedom to express yourself. Sometimes you just need to get something off your chest without feeling like you have to watch every word you say. 

(v) Understanding

When someone knows you well enough to understand where you're "coming from." You instantly know the context in which you're speaking. So it is easier to open up. Individuals in long-term relationships have a history of shared experiences that build a mutual understanding so they "get you" without a lot of explanation.

(vi) Someone to Call On When You Need a Hand

Everyone, from time to time, needs a hand from a friend, colleague, peer, or family member. This can be in the form of advice, a new job, or assistance with a particular project in which you need to call on another's expertise.

(vii) Referrals and References

You can count on the people with whom you have a good relationship to give you a positive reference or referral. They are more likely to be good supporters for you and expound on your strengths and strong points.

(viii) Share and Celebrate

Celebrating with people who truly care about you and want to celebrate with you shows that your life is going well. When you secured a promotion, or when bought your first house, it is a happy moment for you. Being acknowledged for your accomplishments is a rewarding experience and when you have good relationships, most want to be part of celebrating your success.

(ix) Reduced Stress

Sharing your life with friends and coworkers who you trust, who accept, understand and support you reduces stress because you have camaraderie and, therefore, less potential for interpersonal conflicts. Good relationships bring about the best in work teams and families by reducing the anxieties that causes stress and, at the same time, good relationships cultivate a sense of well-being and emotional security.

(x) Happiness and Satisfaction

Having good relationships means there is a mutual like for one another. Being around people you like and who like you creates situations that are harmonious, supportive, and well, happy. You have an overall feeling of satisfaction in your life - be it at work, at home, or in your community.