BY ROWENA CROSBIE, president, Tero International

We’re more connected than ever. Yet real connection is harder to come by. In a world increasingly dominated by screens and speed, interpersonal skills are silently shifting into decline. 

The constant stream of social posts, texts, emails and emojis may simulate communication. But it comes at the expense of genuine interactions where humanity, subtlety and presence live.

The silent shift into decline happens slowly. Eye contact becomes awkward. Conversations feel forced. Listening turns into waiting-for-your-turn-to-talk. Professionals today may be fluent in technology but they are increasingly underdeveloped in the interpersonal skills that drive collaboration, leadership and trust.

With the increase in remote work, many of us have lost opportunities to practice the fundamentals of presenting ourselves effectively, navigating team dynamics and negotiating conflict. Without consistent use, even once-strong interpersonal muscles can weaken.

Interpersonal skills don’t just matter. They define success in almost every aspect of our lives. From influencing a team to resolving a conflict to making someone feel heard, emotional intelligence is what separates the merely competent from the exceptional among us.

Choose to engage. Choose to listen. Choose to connect in person. In a world moving fast, slow down long enough to look someone in the eye. It might be the most important thing you do this week. 

Visit tero.com to sign up for a workshop to rebuild your interpersonal muscles.