Interpersonal Skills

Module One: Getting Started

In Module One, students will be introduced to the course objectives and engage in a pre-assignment to assess their current interpersonal skills. This module sets the foundation for the course, providing an overview of what to expect and how to maximize learning outcomes. Students will begin to explore the importance of interpersonal skills in both personal and professional settings.

Module Two: Verbal Communication Skills

Module Two focuses on enhancing students' verbal communication abilities. They will learn the crucial difference between listening and hearing, and understand how active listening can improve interactions. The module covers techniques for asking effective questions and communicating with power, enabling students to convey their messages clearly and confidently. Through practical exercises and real-life scenarios, students will develop skills to make their verbal communication more impactful and persuasive.

Module Three: Non-Verbal Communication Skills

In Module Three, students will delve into the subtleties of non-verbal communication. They will learn to interpret and utilize body language to reinforce their verbal messages. This module covers the signals we send to others through gestures, facial expressions, and posture, emphasizing that how you say something can be as important as what you say. Students will gain insights into aligning their non-verbal cues with their verbal communication to create a more cohesive and effective interaction style.

Module Four: Making Small Talk and Moving Beyond

Module Four equips students with the skills to start and maintain engaging conversations. They will explore the art of making small talk, learning techniques to initiate conversations effortlessly. The module introduces the four levels of conversation, guiding students on how to deepen discussions and move beyond superficial topics. Through practical exercises, students will practice starting conversations and transitioning to more meaningful exchanges, enhancing their ability to connect with others in various social and professional settings.

Module Five: Moving the Conversation Along

In Module Five, students will develop techniques to keep conversations flowing smoothly and productively. They will learn how to ask for examples to clarify points, use repetition to reinforce understanding, and employ summary questions to ensure clarity. The module also covers strategies for asking for additional details to achieve completeness in discussions. These skills will enable students to navigate and steer conversations effectively, ensuring that all parties are engaged and understood.

Module Six: Remembering Names

Module Six focuses on the critical skill of remembering names, which is essential for building and maintaining professional relationships. Students will learn methods for creating powerful introductions that leave a lasting impression. They will explore mnemonic devices and other memory aids to help recall names effortlessly. The module also addresses strategies for handling situations when they forget a name, ensuring they can recover gracefully. By mastering these techniques, students will enhance their networking abilities and make stronger connections with others.

Module Seven: Influencing Skills

In Module Seven, students will develop essential influencing skills to effectively persuade and guide others. They will learn to see situations from different perspectives, build bridges of understanding, and find common ground. The module emphasizes techniques for giving in without giving up, helping students to negotiate and influence outcomes while maintaining positive relationships. Through practical scenarios, students will practice these skills to become more influential in their interactions.

Module Eight: Bringing People to Your Side

Module Eight teaches students how to combine emotion and logic to bring people to their side. They will learn to use a dash of emotion to connect with others on a personal level, while backing up their arguments with plenty of facts to establish credibility. The module guides students on how to bring it all together, creating compelling and persuasive messages that align others with their viewpoints. By the end of this module, students will be able to effectively rally support and build consensus.

Module Nine: Sharing Your Opinion

In Module Nine, students will learn how to express their opinions confidently and constructively. The module covers the use of I-messages to communicate personal perspectives without causing defensiveness in others. Students will practice disagreeing constructively, using techniques to build consensus and foster collaborative decision-making. By mastering these skills, students will be able to share their views effectively while maintaining positive and respectful interactions.

Module Ten: Negotiation Basics

Module Ten provides students with foundational negotiation skills to navigate various professional scenarios. The module walks through the key stages of negotiation: preparation, opening, bargaining, and closing. Students will learn strategies for each stage, from setting objectives and creating a positive opening to bargaining effectively and closing deals successfully. Practical exercises and role-playing scenarios will help students build confidence in their negotiation abilities, ensuring they can achieve favorable outcomes while maintaining strong relationships.

Module Eleven: Making an Impact

In Module Eleven, students will learn how to make a strong and lasting impression in any interaction. The module covers techniques for creating powerful first impressions and assessing situations quickly and accurately. Students will also explore ways to be enthusiastic and passionate without being overbearing or offensive. Through practical exercises, they will develop the skills needed to stand out positively and make a significant impact in both personal and professional settings.

Module Twelve: Wrapping Up

Module Twelve concludes the course by summarizing the key concepts and skills learned throughout the modules. Students will receive words of wisdom and practical tips for applying their new interpersonal skills in real-life scenarios. The module also provides an opportunity for reflection and discussion, allowing students to consolidate their learning and plan for continued improvement. By the end of this module, students will feel confident and equipped to use their enhanced interpersonal skills effectively in various contexts.