What is interpersonal intelligence and how can we improve it?

The basis of society rests oninterpersonal relationships, an aspect that is sometimes somewhat complicated. However, there are skills that allow cohesion between people and one of them isinterpersonal intelligence.

In the following article, we explain whatinterpersonal intelligence consists of, what its characteristics are and we mention the way to improve it.

What is interpersonal intelligence?

Before defining the term interpersonal intelligence, we must know the concept of intelligence and according toHoward Gardner(1), it consists of “the ability to solve problems or develop products that are valuable in one or more cultures”. (2)

In this context, the term interpersonal intelligence is one that gives the human being the possibility todistinguish and perceive theemotional states and interpersonal signs of others, in addition to responding effectively to these actions in a practical way. The essential goal of this skill isto understand others.

Important: Before developing interpersonal intelligence, it is advisable to first developintrapersonal intelligenceto know firsthand, thesensation of emotions.

On the other hand, it is important to mention that this abilityis part of the group of 8 types of intelligencesof the “Theory of Multiple Intelligences”(3), proposed by the American psychologistHoward Gardner.

How to improve interpersonal intelligence?

To improve and develop interpersonal intelligence, it is necessaryto practice some strategiesthat will allow a different perspective of human relationships. Here are the following:

1. Recognize your own and others’ emotions

Before recognizing the emotions of other individuals, it is necessary toknow one’s own sensationsto achieve a sentimental and emotional connection with others.

Knowing what a person feels emotionally, requireshaving experienced those same emotions, to intuit how a person’s mood may be at a certain moment.

Note: This is one of the characteristics of interpersonal intelligence, which isdeveloped by professionals such as psychologists, psychology therapists, counselors, among others.

2. Learn to listen carefully to others

In reference to this point, we must be excellent listeners, internalize the words of the sender and understand them. The information you get from there will help you draw conclusions thatfavor an emotional solutionto the problems you may present in your environment.

3. Be empathetic

Empathyis the ability of certain people tounderstand the needs, feelings and problems of other people, putting themselves in their place and thus being able to respond correctly to their emotional reactions. (4)

In this context, people who want to improve emotional intelligence should practice empathy, but not in an ephemeral way but that the attitude is sincere.

4. Keep an open mind

Another thing to succeed in the development of interpersonal intelligence is thatyou must be open-minded, accept and understand people as they are.

In this sense,racial attitudes, homophobic, machismo, feminismand in general all those behaviors that indicate some discriminatory trait towards other people, must be completely overcome.

You should know: This intelligence allows a person toread the intentions and desiresof others, even if they have been hidden from him.

5. Be prudent and timely

Another thing to practice for the development of interpersonal intelligence is that oral contact with peoplemust be careful, taking into consideration that the other person is entrusting you with their intimacies.

To highlight: Here unhealthy comments, harsh criticism and in general all those expressions that far from helping, what they dois harm the person more, shouldbe eliminated.

6. Communicate clearly

At this point, it is appropriate todevelop aneffective communicative capacity, that is, learn to express yourself bluntly but with great tact, handle words that are understandableto the listener and above all, that the words you use show that you really care.

Note: This ability is also related to the development oflinguistic intelligence.

What is the importance of interpersonal intelligence?

The importance of interpersonal intelligence derives in the following aspects:

1. Personal scope

Interpersonal intelligence helpsto promote and strengthen interpersonal relationships, favors good treatment and union between citizens. And this

Important: Thanks to this ability,people become veryintuitive, with good communication skills, capable of mediating conflicts and especially because of the ease they have todevelop social bonds.

2. Professional field

In the workplace, interpersonal intelligence is important because in this way people havea clear perception about the individualitiesof co-workers and know their strengths and weaknesses very well, aspects that are of utmost importance toform effective work groups because ofindividual strengths.

You should know: A good work team depends to a large extent on theemotional and professional affinitythat exists between the people who integrate it, oriented to achieve common objectives.

Key Findings

• Interpersonal intelligence refers todistinguishing and perceiving the emotional states andinterpersonal signs of others.
• This skill aims to understand others.
• To develop this intelligence, it is necessaryto develop intrapersonal intelligence.
• Interpersonal intelligence requires ahigh level of empathyandunderstandingtowardsothers.
• Interpersonal intelligence helps to enhance personal and work relationships.