how do i improve my people skills?

Question

i have been unemployed for over a year after i got made redundant and i think my people skills need improving to help me impress employers and get a job.

Answer 1

There are quick courses sometimes offered at community colleges, or try toastmaster clubs, they work on public speaking but might beable to stear you twoard other helpful sources.
jim here

Answer 2

Its all down to inter-personal skils - there's loads of info on it available on the web - just surf around (sorry - to many websites to hunt out)

I have to say however, that sometimes you do have to be what you are not!!! It really does help.
Im quite shy and I hate attention, however, I find that being chatty, witty, and having a laugh 'draws' people to you - Im always nervous when I meet new people but I would NEVER let anyone see that weakness, thus I get a kick of adreniline and work with it, and I literally 'chat' to anyone. People like it when you give them the time of day.

No matter how scared I am I always think "if it doesnt kill you - DO IT" and if you make a fool of yourself in ANY circumstance - always laugh at yourself - dont take yourself too seriously!!

And I will let you into my BIGGEST secret............ DONT be stingy, theres nothing better then meeting someone new, then after a couple of weeks or so say 'Hey, fancy coming to lunch, my treat' - its a kindness that people really take to - and the best bit is, is that they will return the favour and next time lunch is on them
Believe me, it really works!! Obviously, dont invite the whole office, but as the weeks go by, offer those who you think you will get along with within the office or those that you will be working closely with an invite to lunch - food and kindness.............EXCELLENT COMBINATION (doesnt have to be expensive either - cheap meals at weatherspoons, chinese buffet or even a sandwich in the park - you and your lunch buddy can just see what you fancy)

Answer 3

Do a marketing/sales job... If you cannot get employment, try MLM. Look for a company you like...

I was laid off myself... Thought network marketing was a scam... Now I am in MLM working 15 to 20 hours a week. It does not even feel like work.

The start was tough. I had to hone people's skills. In an industry like MLM where people say one is a scammer at the mention of MLM, it was really a challenge. But have been in it for 4.5 years. These days, its just like a walk in the park...

MLM definitely improved my people's skills and even skills on handling obstacles/objections.

Answer 4

the only way to really improve people skills is go through the pain of having to talk to people -- practice

you may not be as quick with the sarcasm - zingers - aggession but you will learn - watch and learn then do and learn

Answer 5

Don't try to be someone you aren't. If you are an introvert, try to match yourself with a job that doesn't require extravert people skills.

My best advise is to read "Know 'Em Dead" by Martin Yate...particularly the chapter on interviewing.

Answer 6

One of the best things to do is ask about the other persons interests, get them talking about what they like, what they do. People love to talk about themselves, ask about family, jobs, hobbies anything like that. When you find you have a common interest talk about your experiences and take it from there.

Answer 7

Here's a great article about professional conduct. It's what's expected in the workplace.

I hope it helps.

Answer 8

Go out and spend time with people randomly conversing with them by waiting in lines that you do not necessarily need to wait in.

Answer 9

You need to improve you personality and all will follow