Conceptual skills refer to the abilities to process information, to reason through a problem, and to make a decision based on that information and reasoning. Interpersonal skills consist of the abilities to communicate with people at work so that your goals are met and your working relationships are strengthened. The objective of this course is to improve your interpersonal skills so that your tools for solving managerial problems will be enhanced. The overall conclusion of their studies is that effective communication is indispensable to the successful manager. First-line managers spend more time supervising others than any other managerial function.
Supervision largely entails communicating with subordinates about their work.
This suggests that effective communication is crucial to new university graduates who will fill first-line managerial positions. As managers move up the hierarchy to middle management, improved interpersonal skills are also seen as the top priority for continuing education. At the top of the hierarchy, communication skills remain critical since executives have highly personal relationships, interact with each other as in a small firm, and rely on high levels of group involvement. Other studies have documented that effective interpersonal communication benefits not only an individual manager's career, but also the organization in which he or she works. Communication effectiveness has been linked to increased efficiency, reduced grievances and absenteeism, increased satisfaction and role clarity for subordinates.