18 Examples of How Strong Interpersonal Skills Help People Succeed

In today’s fast-paced work environment, possessing strong interpersonal skills can set you apart and lead to remarkable success. From communicating effectively to building trust, these skills are often the foundation for strong relationships, effective teamwork, and career advancement. Let's explore how these 18 thought leaders have used their interpersonal skills to succeed in the workplace.

Why Interpersonal Skills Are Essential for Career Success

In today’s fast-paced, collaborative work environment, interpersonal skills are more important than ever. These skills—ranging from clear communication to empathy and conflict resolution—aren't just "nice to have" but are essential for building strong relationships, managing teams, and navigating complex work dynamics. Research by Harvard University, the Carnegie Foundation, and Stanford Research Center has shown that 85% of job success comes from well-developed soft skills, while only 15% comes from technical skills.

Unlike technical abilities, which can be taught relatively quickly, interpersonal skills require practice, self-awareness, and continuous improvement. They are especially valuable in roles that demand frequent interaction with clients, stakeholders, and teams. In fact, LinkedIn's Workplace Learning Report revealed that 91% of talent professionals and hiring managers view soft skills, including interpersonal skills, as crucial to the future of the workforce. These skills enhance collaboration, foster trust, and lead to better problem-solving and innovation within teams.

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The Importance of Interpersonal Skills in Real-World Scenarios

In a diverse and dynamic workplace, interpersonal skills are the glue that holds teams together, drives collaboration, and fuels individual success. These skills aren't just theoretical; they play out in real scenarios, where effective communication, empathy, and adaptability directly impact outcomes and relationships.

Here are 18 examples of how strong interpersonal skills have helped professionals across various job industries succeed, showcasing the tangible benefits of these abilities in the workplace.

Clear Communication Builds Relationships

Strong communication is consistently ranked among the top skills employers seek. In fact, a survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found that 73% of employers prioritize communication as a vital skill in new hires. This skill can strengthen professional relationships and create a positive work environment where colleagues feel understood and valued. For example, effective communicators are better able to clarify project details, avoid misunderstandings, and foster an atmosphere of trust and openness.

"I have always believed in clear communication across all conversations and written correspondences. When I was younger, my dad (who was an engineer) once told me that if I could 'write a memo,' I'd always have a job. That advice always stuck with me, and it has served me well. On a personal note, I also believe that empathy is the key to connecting and forming real relationships with people. The more authentic and open you are about your own personal and professional experiences, the more engaged and responsive your colleagues will be."

Chris B., PR Rep, Minuteman Press International

Humor Turns Cold Calls Into Callbacks

Humor can transform the often-dreaded cold call. In a competitive sales role, using humor helped turn voicemail into a conversation starter. By adding a bit of levity, like mentioning lunch specials or borrowing movie lines, they broke the ice and made their voicemails memorable, leading to callbacks and new connections.

"Out of college, I worked in sales for a temporary staffing agency, navigating a competitive market with over 300 rivals in my territory. It was a world of relentless cold calls, with most calls going straight to voicemail. That's when I found my ultimate advantage: humor. Prospects would often say the only reason they listened to my voicemails (and eventually called back) was because I made them laugh.

Instead of jumping into a sales pitch, I'd leave messages about lunch specials at local restaurants and ask what they wanted—without mentioning why I was calling. If I'd called multiple times without a reply, I'd borrow movie lines, like tweaking Harry's famous line to Sally: "The fact that you're not answering makes me think you're either (a) not at the office, (b) at the office but avoiding me, or (c) at the office and desperately want to talk to me but are trapped under something heavy. If it's (a) or (c), please call me back."

Humor helped at every step of the process. When a potential client's top objection was, "You're all alike, and the candidates are the worst," I'd say, "We do verify references and conduct drug and background checks, so from us, you're getting the best of the worst," which at least earned a smile. Humor turned countless cold calls into callbacks and helped me differentiate myself in a crowded field.

As I advanced to management and eventually became a corporate trainer, I continually emphasized the value of humor. It makes you relatable and helps put others at ease, allowing you to break the ice and build lasting connections. Working in territory sales can be a grind, but by seeking out the humor in everyday situations, you can maintain a fresh perspective and make long days more interesting."

Amy Lyle, Author, magazine contributor, podcaster, TEDx speaker

Building Trust With High-Profile Clients

Interpersonal skills like empathy and trust-building are increasingly valued in roles that involve client relationships. According to the World Economic Forum, skills like empathy and active listening are set to be essential for nearly 90% of roles by 2025. When working with high-profile clients, these skills become indispensable as they can help reduce client anxieties and increase satisfaction, ultimately creating a loyal client base and improving reputation.

"As an executive-protection agent, strong interpersonal skills are crucial for building trust and ensuring seamless communication with clients, team members, and the public. One example that stands out is a time when I was tasked with protecting a high-profile client during a series of public events. The client was very anxious due to heightened media attention and the crowd's unpredictability.

To manage the situation, I focused on building rapport with her, listening to her concerns, and clearly communicating the steps we were taking to ensure her safety. I maintained a calm and reassuring demeanor, explaining our security protocols in simple terms without overwhelming her. This approach put the client at ease, fostering trust in my ability to handle the situation. Not only were her concerns taken into consideration, but she was also kept informed about the decisions we were making for her safety."

Denida Grow, Managing Partner - Protection and Intelligence Solutions, LeMareschal LLC

Effective Communication During Audit Projects

Effective communication is particularly crucial in high-stakes projects, such as audit reviews or compliance processes, where miscommunication can lead to costly errors. Research shows that companies with strong communication practices experience 25% higher productivity and reduced project costs, making this a highly sought-after skill for leaders. Establishing open channels for sharing ideas and addressing concerns in audit projects not only increases accuracy but also builds confidence among team members.

"One key example is when I led a team through a challenging audit project at Philippine Veterans Bank. Strong interpersonal skills allowed me to communicate effectively with both senior management and the audit team, ensuring that everyone was aligned on the objectives. By fostering an open environment where concerns could be addressed, we identified critical risk areas and implemented solutions efficiently. This collaborative approach not only ensured the project's success, but also built lasting trust within the team and with stakeholders."

Jocarl Zaide, Chief Financial Officer, SAFC

Mastering Push-And-Pull Techniques

Knowing when to "push" (share your perspective) or "pull" (seek the other person's perspective) is crucial in communication. Understanding this balance can make interactions more productive, as it shows respect for others’ viewpoints and creates space for constructive discussions.

"One of the most powerful influencing techniques is the push-and-pull influencing technique. In essence, push is sharing what is in my head, and pull is asking what is in your head.

Knowing which one to use in which situation is key to succeeding in the workplace. This is because getting it wrong will win you no friends, going against everything Dale Carnegie shares in his famous book, 'How to Win Friends and Influence People'.

Getting it wrong is sharing what's in your mind (push) when the customer wants to tell you what they think of the product you are trying to sell to them. Or getting it wrong is asking what your boss (pull) thinks about a situation before you have even shared with her what has happened.

Know when to push and when to pull because people will be very thankful that you did the right one."

Darren Smith, CEO, MBM

Addressing Customer Report Issues

When faced with recurring issues with customer reports, one leader used strategic interpersonal skills to coordinate with multiple teams and communicate effectively with clients. By engaging stakeholders, holding regular updates, and leading collaborative sessions, they reduced monthly escalations by 96%—demonstrating how effective cross-functional communication can improve client satisfaction.

"An example of how strong interpersonal skills have helped me succeed in the workplace is when I led a major initiative to address a recurring issue with customer reports. Each month, over 50 customers were experiencing delays with critical reports, leading to escalations reaching senior leadership, including the EVP level. To address this effectively, I knew I would need to coordinate efforts across teams and communicate strategically with customers.

Once my team identified that the issue stemmed from inefficient reports created by customers, I took the initiative to conduct a wider analysis across the entire spectrum of reports. I found that 98% of our customers were either experiencing the issue without reporting it or were likely to face it in the future.

This was a critical insight as it revealed a widespread, systemic issue rather than isolated cases. Recognizing the importance of a comprehensive approach, I proposed a multi-faceted strategy that included process changes and product improvements.

First, I organized a brainstorming session with product management and development to identify and implement proactive measures in the product that would prevent similar issues in the future. We discussed and implemented changes to the product that would prevent customers from creating poorly designed reports going forward.

For the existing reports, which were already affecting system performance, I coordinated closely with product management and account executives to develop an effective communication strategy to customers so they could modify the reports. This involved leading webinars, holding regular meetings with stakeholders, and collaborating with different teams to ensure all customers were informed and equipped to update their reports before the changes went live.

The result was a significant reduction in monthly escalations—by over 96%—and a smoother experience for both customers and internal teams. My ability to lead collaborative sessions, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and strategize across functions was instrumental in successfully addressing this challenge and significantly improving customer satisfaction."

Shishir Khedkar, Head of Engineering

Empathy Enhances Client Experience

Empathy is at the heart of client relations, especially in personal service roles. In the hair industry, showing empathy to clients makes them feel valued and heard. Listening to clients' needs, understanding their concerns, and guiding them through decisions builds trust and ensures that they leave feeling satisfied and understood.

"In the hair industry, interpersonal skills are at the core of everything we do, shaping our relationships with clients and enhancing team dynamics. Building trust, empathy, and understanding is essential in creating a space where clients feel comfortable, valued, and understood. Among these skills, empathy stands out as essential in creating a positive, trust-filled environment.

When working with clients, empathy helps us connect on a deeper level. For example, if a client comes in feeling uncertain about a new look, we can use empathy to understand and validate their concerns. Rather than simply suggesting a style, we take the time to actively listen and explore what makes them comfortable. This approach not only reassures them but also involves them in the process, building confidence and trust. By truly understanding their perspective, we can offer guidance that aligns with their vision, making their experience more personal and empowering.

Empathy is equally vital in our interactions with team members. When a colleague is learning a new technique or feeling the pressure of a busy day, empathy allows us to respond with support rather than criticism. This creates a collaborative environment where team members feel valued and empowered to grow, which ultimately enhances the client experience as well.

In the salon setting, every interaction is an opportunity to make someone's day brighter, build loyalty, and encourage repeat visits. Through empathy, patience, and clear communication, we bridge the gap between technical skill and personal connection, ultimately creating a community where clients and team members alike feel valued. The heart of our industry isn't just in the services we provide but in the trust, relationships, and connections we build every day.

By practicing empathy, we foster a culture where clients feel truly heard and cared for, and team members feel supported. This skill transforms the salon from a transactional space into a community where every visit strengthens relationships, builds loyalty, and creates an atmosphere of trust and positivity."

Kristina Bynum, Owner and Cosmetologist, Salon Le Volume

Bridging Clinical And Administrative Teams

Effective collaboration across teams with different priorities requires empathy and listening. In one instance, bridging clinical and administrative teams required a thoughtful, open approach. By fostering trust and carefully managing conversations, the team was able to streamline processes, improve outcomes, and create a supportive work environment.

"What exactly do I mean by interpersonal skills? Distilling this from an actual experience I had where such skills were mission-critical to my success: Collaboration between clinical and administrative teams with different priorities and perspectives was needed for the project. Through trust and some very active listening and empathetic messages, I brought people together and prompted open, thoughtful, and careful conversations (not arguments) about how we could make this work across branches. It created trust and togetherness, and it allowed us to create a smooth process that resulted in better outcomes and happier teams. Establishing these relationships proved to be more than helpful for the project as it highlighted how important human skills are when it comes to driving impactful and collaborative results."

Sean Smith, CEO & Head of HR, Alpas Wellness

Relatable Communication With Clients

A study from the Harvard Business Review notes that clear, relatable communication enhances customer experience and retention rates, especially in industries like marketing and consulting. When professionals take the time to simplify complex information, clients are more likely to feel understood, leading to stronger, long-term relationships. According to LinkedIn’s 2023 Workplace Learning Report, 86% of professionals consider communication a critical skill, especially for fostering trust in client-based roles.

"Strong interpersonal skills have been invaluable in client communication. As an SEO specialist, I often work with clients who may not fully understand the technical aspects of SEO. Communicating complex information in a relatable way has helped me build trust and maintain long-term relationships with clients.

For instance, a client once questioned why organic growth was taking time. Instead of resorting to jargon, I used simple analogies and examples to explain SEO's long-term impact. This open communication put them at ease and helped them see the value of our strategy. By addressing concerns with empathy, I strengthened our working relationship.

Interpersonal skills also play a role in collaboration. Whether with clients or colleagues, being approachable and understanding creates a positive environment. This foundation of trust and openness allows everyone to voice ideas comfortably, making the workplace more productive and supportive."

Azam Mohamed Nisamdeen, Founder, Convert Chat

Weekly Check-Ins Improve Client Projects

Consistency and clarity in communication can drive project success. By scheduling weekly check-ins with a client facing shifting requirements, a project team kept the client informed and aligned on priorities. This proactive approach led to a strong relationship, clear deliverables, and even more future collaborations.

"One example where our interpersonal skills made a big difference was during a challenging client project with frequent changes in requirements. Rather than letting these shifts throw us off course, we set up weekly check-ins with the client to keep communication open and clear.

During these meetings, we focused on active listening and asked clarifying questions to understand their real priorities. This approach helped them feel heard, and as a result, they became more decisive and focused in their requests. We also introduced a simple "priority tracker" that both sides could update, which reduced misunderstandings and kept the team aligned.

By keeping communication strong and building trust, we delivered the project on time and exceeded the client's expectations. This approach didn't just help us complete the project smoothly; it also led to future contracts and a stronger relationship with the client."

Vikrant Bhalodia, Head of Marketing & People Ops, WeblineIndia

Empathy Eases Client Transitions

In today’s customer-driven market, companies increasingly seek employees who can demonstrate empathy. Gallup research indicates that companies with high customer empathy scores outperform their competitors by 85% in sales growth. Empathetic professionals understand their clients’ needs and concerns on a deeper level, which leads to better client satisfaction and loyalty.

"One example of how strong interpersonal skills have contributed to workplace success is when I was in a role managing admissions and discharges in a mental health setting. In this position, I often dealt with clients and families who were in highly vulnerable and emotional states. By actively listening, expressing empathy, and communicating clearly, I was able to build trust and rapport with clients, helping them feel more comfortable and reassured during difficult transitions.

For instance, there was a case where a family was struggling to understand their loved one's treatment plan and the necessary next steps. By taking the time to listen to their concerns, explaining the process in a calm and compassionate manner, and addressing each of their questions, I was able to ease their anxieties and guide them through the process. This not only helped the family feel supported but also facilitated a smoother transition for the client.

This experience reinforced how strong interpersonal skills, particularly in high-stakes environments, can improve outcomes for clients and create a supportive atmosphere that aligns with the values of mental health care."

Annalicia Olave, Office Manager, Care Star Recovery & Wellness

Active Listening Resolves Team Conflicts

Active listening can be a powerful tool to resolve team conflicts. When a project stalled due to differing opinions, a team leader stepped in, made each team member feel heard, and facilitated a solution-focused conversation. The team reached a compromise, strengthening trust and collaboration.

"Active listening has been a game-changer for me in the workplace. There was a time when my team was struggling to move forward on a project because of conflicting ideas and unclear expectations. I stepped in and made a point to listen actively to each person's perspective, without interrupting or rushing them. This helped me understand not only their ideas but also the underlying concerns driving their opinions.

By actively listening and asking clarifying questions, I was able to facilitate a conversation where each team member felt understood and respected. This led to a breakthrough in our collaboration, as everyone became more open to compromise and working together toward a shared goal. Active listening has helped me build trust and show my colleagues that their contributions are genuinely valued, which has been key to my success in fostering a positive, productive team atmosphere."

Ryan Crittenden, CEO, Coach, XL Coaching and Development

Turning Rejection Into Learning Opportunities

Learning from rejection can be a valuable skill. By treating rejection as feedback rather than a setback, one professional was able to refine their approach, showing adaptability and resilience. This open-mindedness led to improved interpersonal skills, stronger client relationships, and new opportunities down the line.

"Handling rejection positively has been a big part of my success. Hearing "no" can feel discouraging, but I've found that turning it into a learning moment makes all the difference. Instead of taking it personally, I approach it as a chance to understand where I might improve or how I could adjust my approach. Often, I'll ask a few follow-up questions to get more insight, such as what they were looking for or what didn't connect for them. This way, I get feedback that I can use in future conversations.

In one instance, I reached out to someone about a potential partnership, and they declined, mentioning that they were looking for someone with a different approach. Instead of ending the conversation, I thanked them and asked a bit more about their specific needs. That led to a really helpful exchange. While it did not result in an immediate "yes," it gave me valuable information that helped refine my approach for similar opportunities. Months later, that same person came back to me because they remembered the conversation and saw that I was willing to listen and adapt.

Taking rejection as feedback has not only helped me improve my interpersonal skills but has shown people that I'm truly invested in understanding what works for them. It turns a "no" into a way to keep growing, which ultimately strengthens relationships and opens up future opportunities."

Tracie Crites, Chief Marketing Officer, HEAVY Equipment Appraisal

Cultural Sensitivity Enhances Collaboration

In global business, cultural sensitivity can make or break partnerships. By adapting to a partner’s communication style and emphasizing relationship-building, one leader improved collaboration with an international partner. Recognizing and respecting cultural differences led to smoother teamwork and more successful outcomes.

"A strong interpersonal skill that has helped me in the workplace is cultural sensitivity. Working with people from diverse backgrounds is part of everyday business, and understanding cultural differences can make or break an international collaboration. Respecting how people from different cultures communicate, make decisions, and approach challenges goes beyond just knowing a few customs. It's about showing a level of respect that builds genuine trust and makes collaborations run smoothly.

In one particular project, I worked closely with an international partner who had a very different communication style from what I was used to. They preferred a more indirect approach, focusing on relationship-building before getting down to business. At first, it felt a bit unfamiliar, but once I understood that this style was deeply rooted in their culture, I adjusted my approach. I spent more time building rapport and listening, which showed them that I respected their way of working. This openness broke down any initial stiffness, and we ended up with a much smoother and more productive collaboration."

Daniel Vasilevski, Director & Owner, Bright Force Electrical

Active Listening Empowers Team Members

Active listening can empower team members to share their perspectives openly. A leader who practiced active listening fostered trust within the team, allowing them to better support their colleagues' individual needs and motivations. This approach not only strengthened relationships but also enhanced the team’s productivity.

"As a leader, one powerful example of how strong interpersonal skills have contributed to my success is through my commitment to active listening. By genuinely engaging with my team members, I created an environment where they felt heard and valued. This practice fosters trust and open communication, allowing me to gain deeper insights into their challenges and aspirations. As a result, I was able to provide tailored support and guidance that address their unique needs. This emphasis on active listening not only strengthens relationships but also empowers individuals to thrive, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness of the team."

Melissa Thallemer, Executive Coach & Founding Partner, Leadership Reinvented, LLC

Proofreading Prevents Misunderstandings

Avoiding miscommunication can prevent unnecessary tension. Taking extra time to proofread emails and messages has helped one professional avoid misunderstandings that could lead to conflicts. This small effort fosters clearer communication and contributes to a more harmonious work environment.

"One personal example for me is to intentionally avoid misunderstandings. Take the extra time to proofread emails and/or texts with the active intention of avoiding miscommunication.

In my experience, misunderstandings (even minor ones) can quickly lead to tension or falling out. For example, in a project with a nearing deadline, and where everyone was on edge, I noticed that a misinterpretation of an email's tone led to dissatisfaction or tension between the corresponding authors. As team leader, I had to take the extra step to resolve the conflict, which cost us all extra time that could have been avoided had we proofread our correspondence (and would have cost much less in terms of time spent).

To prevent this, I regularly emphasize to my team (and myself) to clarify our messages and anticipate any possible misreading. This small effort to communicate with precision helped to ensure everyone is on the same page, avoid extra time spent on conflict resolution, and ensure smoother collaboration."

Ernest Wong, Head of Business Development, SW Risk Control Services Sdn Bhd

Adapting To Different Social Needs

Recognizing that not everyone has the same social preferences is a valuable interpersonal skill. By adapting their approach based on each person’s communication style, one leader improved relationships within their team. This adaptability allowed them to better connect with individuals who had different social needs.

"My first step in developing strong interpersonal skills was realizing mine weren't what I thought they were. I used to assume everyone processed social interactions like I did—that there was a universal "right way" to communicate.

One Monday morning, I came into the office and dove straight into work, neglecting to do my usual social check-in with Jennifer, my EA. It was clear as the day went on she was upset with me about something. It turned out she'd had a difficult weekend, and my failure to ask about it made her feel unvalued.

Ironically, if I had asked my developer Michael about his weekend, he would have become annoyed, feeling I was wasting valuable time with small talk and potentially crossing professional boundaries.

My takeaway was that true interpersonal skills aren't about following a single communication playbook—they're about understanding and adapting to others' social needs. Jennifer had a high need for personal connection, while Michael preferred keeping work relationships more formal.

Once I learned to read and respect these different social drives, my effectiveness as a leader significantly increased. Success came not from becoming more extroverted or more reserved, but from becoming more attuned to how others preferred to connect."

Jason P. Carroll, CEO, Aptive Index

Connecting People Builds Community

Connecting people can strengthen a workplace community. By fostering relationships and building a network within their city, one professional created a strong support system and advanced in their field. Remembering and valuing people helps build a cohesive community and inspires loyalty.

"One of my strong suits has always been connecting people. The ability to make connections and build a community within our city has been a huge factor in our success. This skill has also helped me become a thought leader in my field. Folks remember when you remember them, and being able to connect people by building strong relationships can help you grow in your career."

Ashley Mireles-Guerrero, Owner, Judging by the Cover: A Bookstore

Strong interpersonal skills go beyond technical expertise; they’re the foundation for creating positive, supportive, and successful workplace environments. From building trust with clients to empowering team members, these 18 examples show how effective communication, empathy, and adaptability can pave the way to professional success. Mastering these skills can enhance your career, improve team dynamics, and ultimately contribute to a more collaborative and fulfilling work environment.

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