“Must have good interpersonal skills” is often seen in Assistant job descriptions, but what does that really mean? What are interpersonal skills, and why are they so crucial for Assistants? Interpersonal skills, soft skills, or people skills all refer to the same thing.
These are the skills you need to interact and communicate with the people around you. They are the emotional skills required to get along with colleagues, clients, and managers—skills that are essential for Assistants. These abilities help us thrive in our roles. We are in constant contact with people at all levels within our organizations, and we have to collaborate effectively with all of them to succeed.
So, interpersonal skills are vital. But what exactly are they, how do we use them, and which interpersonal skills are needed to thrive in the modern-day role of an Assistant?
First, it’s important to note that interpersonal skills will become even more critical as technology and digital communication continue to dominate our working lives. Adding a personal touch and making those face-to-face connections will set you apart. So, what are interpersonal skills? Simply put, they are the abilities we need to interact with people, communicate effectively, and work well together.
Interpersonal skills are indispensable for Assistants and are in high demand. Look at any job description, and you’ll see a range of interpersonal skills listed as necessary for success in the role.
These skills are often innate; they are what we naturally do. That’s why I often say that the role of an Assistant isn’t just a job we stumble into—it’s something we’re naturally good at. However, like any skill, interpersonal skills can be improved. Mastering these skills to effectively get people on your side can make your life (and your job) much easier.
Here are the top 15 interpersonal skills for Assistants, along with why they’re crucial for your success.
We will cover:
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This one is obvious, right? Communication is everything in this role. From body language to listening skills, being a good communicator is essential. You also need to understand how your Executive communicates so you can complement their style. Remember, communication isn’t just about speaking—it’s about actively listening, being present, and truly hearing what others are saying.
Assistants have to roll with the punches. You can’t let constant changes (like rescheduling) get you down. Organizations now move at such a rapid pace that adaptability has become a highly sought-after skill. You must develop a mindset that embraces constant change.
Leadership comes in all shapes and sizes and isn’t tied to a job title. By viewing yourself as a leader, you’ll change how you approach your role and interact with colleagues. Leadership is about taking responsibility, owning your work, making a difference in your organization, and adding value.
Being able to motivate others is an incredible skill and something Assistants should work on daily. Inspire others, and make them want to work with and support you. Whether it’s getting people to attend meetings or meet deadlines, motivation makes these tasks much easier.
Taking responsibility for your work is crucial. When you own your work and your role in the organization, you’ll thrive. This means owning your mistakes too, which can be tough. However, by taking responsibility, you’ll naturally want to do a better job, leading to fewer mistakes.
Collaboration is key. Assistants must work closely with their Executives, sharing ideas and working towards common goals. Effective collaboration transforms the relationship from a dictatorship into a true partnership. The rise of collaboration tools in businesses highlights how essential this skill is.
Empathy is vital for Assistants. You wouldn’t be in this role if you didn’t have it. However, empathy can be draining if not reciprocated or appreciated. Understanding others’ perspectives and responding with compassion—even when it’s difficult—can significantly improve your relationships and effectiveness.
Problem-solving is essential. Identifying and addressing issues adds immense value. Handling problems calmly and professionally makes an Assistant invaluable.
Diplomacy is the art of dealing with people sensitively and tactfully. It involves communicating in a way that considers others’ feelings and potential reactions. This skill helps Assistants find common ground with people at all business levels.
Patience is tough but necessary. When your Executive asks the same question repeatedly, it’s easy to get frustrated. However, patience is crucial. Take a deep breath, reset, and respond calmly.
Assistants must inspire trust. Your Executive relies heavily on you, so they need to trust you completely. Colleagues must also trust your competence. If they don’t, they may bypass you and go directly to the Executive, creating unnecessary complications.
Persuading others to follow your lead or see things your way is invaluable. Excellent persuasion skills stem from effective communication and confidence, making your requests more compelling and easier to fulfill.
Building rapport is critical, especially with your Executive. Good rapport involves treating everyone with respect, getting to know them personally, and understanding their communication preferences.
A sense of humor goes a long way. It helps diffuse tension, build connections, and make the workplace more enjoyable.
A strong network makes an Assistant’s job much easier. Networking isn’t just about connecting within your organization but also with clients, suppliers, and other Assistants. Building relationships and offering help can solve many problems.
My final point on interpersonal skills is this: Take an interest in others, be curious, and ask questions. It’s challenging when you have a lot on your plate, but building relationships with your colleagues and Executives is crucial.
The role of an Assistant is unique and requires strong interpersonal skills. Developing these skills takes work and dedication, but it’s essential for success.
Additionally, nurturing your emotional intelligence and understanding the nuances of every interaction can lead to great success in any organization.
If you want to develop your interpersonal skills further, enrol in the Assistant Essentials Online Course for comprehensive guidance on thriving in this challenging yet rewarding profession. Personal growth breeds confidence and sets you up for future success.
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