Have you ever wondered what sets successful professionals apart? While technical expertise is essential, it’s the combination of inter and intra personal skills that truly make a difference.
This is the reason why these types of competencies have been given the name of power skills and are increasingly taken into account in selection processes.
So what exactly are interpersonal and intrapersonal skills? Are they innate qualities or can they be trained? In this article we will look at the differences within interpersonal vs. intrapersonal skills and explain how you can develop them while studying for a university degree.
Difference between inter vs intra personal skills
Although both inter and intra personal skills are important in the workplace, the truth is that each one has a different purpose.
Interpersonal skills refer to the ability to communicate, collaborate and interact effectively with others. These skills are essential in professional environments where teamwork and cooperation are critical to achieving goals.
Imagine you are working on a project involving different areas and departments of a company. Your interpersonal skills will come into play when you communicate your ideas, actively listen to the views of your team members and collaborate to achieve a common goal.
In addition, improving your interpersonal skills will allow you to establish positive relationships and work in harmony with your colleagues, clients and managers.
On the other hand, intrapersonal skills focus on self-knowledge and self-management. They are therefore indispensable for both professional success and your personal growth.
Let’s say you are facing a new professional challenge. Intrapersonal skills allow you to assess and manage your strengths and weaknesses and stay motivated throughout the process.
By becoming self-aware, you will be able to identify new areas for improvement and find the growth opportunities that will allow you to advance in your career.
But, intrapersonal skills are also vital to maintaining emotional balance in the face of stressful situations. So mastering these skills will not only improve your professional performance, but will also contribute to your overall well-being and success in life.
Would you like to know which interpersonal and intrapersonal skills are most in demand by companies today?
Top intrapersonal skills
These are some of the most valued intrapersonal skills when evaluating a candidate in the working world:
- Self-awareness. Understanding your strengths, weaknesses and emotions enables you to make better decisions and pursue personal growth.
- Self-motivation. Having the drive and determination to achieve goals, overcome challenges and stay focused even in the face of setbacks.
- Adaptability. Being open to change, embracing new ideas and being flexible in diverse situations.
- Continuous learning: There is no adaptability if we are not capable of learning, and unlearning, new concepts and skills. Professional excellence is achieved through a mix of perfectionism and lifelong learning attitude.
- Resilience. Bouncing back from failures, maintaining a positive mindset and persevering through obstacles.
- Time management. Effectively managing your time and prioritizing tasks to enhance productivity and achieve desired outcomes.
And now we go to the interpersonal ones.
Top interpersonal skills
The most highly valued interpersonal skills in the business environment are:
- Communication. The ability to convey ideas clearly, listen actively and involve others in the same projects and goals.
- Collaboration. Working well with diverse teams, sharing responsibilities and fostering a cooperative environment.
- Leadership. Inspiring and motivating others, guiding a team towards goals and making effective decisions.
- Conflict resolution. Navigating conflicts constructively, finding win-win solutions and promoting harmonious relationships.
- Empathy. Understanding and relating to the emotions and perspectives of others, fostering stronger connections and mutual understanding.
How many interpersonal and intrapersonal skills can you add to your resume? Here’s how you can lengthen the list.
How to develop your inter and intra personal skills during University?
At CIS University we are committed to the holistic development of our students, which includes the development of their interpersonal and intrapersonal skills.
That is why we have focused on developing a comprehensive curriculum and extracurricular activities that provide students with an environment conducive to the enhancement of their skills.
Would you like to know how we do it? Here’s how we support the development of these skills:
Our curricula are carefully designed to foster self-reflection, critical thinking and the development of intrapersonal skills. In this way we encourage students to explore their passions and strengths, while fostering self-awareness.
2 – University Clubs
Our diverse range of clubs allows students to engage in teamwork, leadership and effective communication. It doesn’t matter if you choose to join a debate club, book club or business club. Any of them is perfect for honing your interpersonal skills.
Our internship program provides hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings. This enhances their adaptability, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, preparing them for future professional challenges.
Additionally, CIS University takes pride in its commitment to community service through its NGO (Cruzada por los niños) and foundation (International Studies Foundation), where students can actively participate in volunteer activities. Engaging in volunteer work not only allows students to make a positive impact on society but also nurtures their empathy, adaptability and interpersonal skills.
5 – Athlete Programs
CIS University recognizes the importance of a well-rounded education that goes beyond the academic realm. That’s why, as a part of our commitment to holistic development, we encourage students to participate in our athletic programs: Elite Soccer University Program and Student Athlete Program. Engaging in sports not only promotes physical health but also fosters essential interpersonal skills such as teamwork, leadership and resilience.
Thus, whether through a campus club, volunteering in community service or participating in our internship or sports programs, CIS University students have ample opportunities to develop their intra- and interpersonal skills, ensuring that they are better prepared for life and the work environment.
Interested in unlocking all your potential? Visit CIS University’s homepage and take the next step towards a successful career.
