INTE

RPERSONAL

COMMUNICAT

ION

COMPETE

NCE

Based on the research of Spitzberg and

Cupach

INTERPERSONAL COMPETENCE = the appropriate and effective

management of interaction among people

What does it mean to be appropriate?

What does it mean to be effective?

APPROPRIATEInvolves how well you adhere to the rules

and expectations in a given context

EFFECTIVEInvolves how well you achieve your goal

INTERPERSONAL COMPETENCE INCLUDES FOUR SKILL CLUSTERS1. Attentiveness2. Composure3. Expressiveness4. Coordination

ATTENTIVENESS

The tendency to be concerned with, interested in, and attentive to your conversational partner

How do I achieve this?

ATTENTIVENESS SUGGESTIONS• Lean toward your partner• Nod your head in response to statements• Use encouragements or agreements• Express your personal opinions• Involve your partner as a topic of

conversation

COMPOSURE

Involves communicating in an assertive and confident manner and avoiding anxiety cues

How can I communicate with composure?

COMPOSURE SUGGESTIONS

• Limit vocal fillers (um, uh, like, etc.)• Don’t speak too fast or too slow• Have an open posture• Don’t have distracting movements

(e.g., tapping foot)• Make direct eye contact

EXPRESSIVENESS

Involves animation and variation in verbal and nonverbal forms of expression

How can I communicate with expressiveness?

EXPRESSIVENESS SUGGESTIONS• Smile• Use vocal variety • Make sure your facial expressions

match what you are saying • Use gestures• Make direct eye contact

COORDINATION

Involves managing the flow of the conversation

How can I accomplish this?

COORDINATION SUGGESTIONS• Don’t interrupt your partner• Maintain topics & make follow-up

comments• Ask questions• Speak about the same amount of time

as your partner• Initiate new topics for the conversation