You will first interview three people who know you well. Preferably, at least one of the individuals should have worked at a job with you; however, if this is not an option, three personal contacts (e.g. family, friends, classmates) is fine.
You will ask your contacts to identify three of your strengths in navigating difficult interpersonal situations, and one area where you can improve. You can phrase these questions in any way you choose, but here is an example:
“I’m writing a paper for a class called Managing Difficult People at Work. As part of my own personal development, I need to identify my strengths and weakness in terms of navigating difficult situations with other people. Would you mind providing me feedback on three areas where I excel in terms of working well and communicating well with other people, as well as one area for improvement?””
While you may email, text, or message your interviewees to ask them to be involved and to send them your questions, you must collect their responses in a verbal form. In other words, you need to discuss their answers over the phone, via video chat, or in person. This will enable you to ask follow-up questions. You are strongly encouraged to ask them for at least one example, either on your identified strengths, or an area for improvement. Please note: You do not have to agree with their responses, but you should not argue or attempt to defend yourself as you receive this feedback. Clarification questions are encouraged, but please engage in active listening.
After conducting the interviews, reflecting on your interpersonal communication strengths and weaknesses, and identifying an area you would like to improve, choose a skill that you will commit to improving this semester.
Respond to the following in your paper:
☑ Instructions: Your paper should focus on responses to three prompts. Click on each tab for more details about the prompts.
Evaluate past experiences with “difficult” people.
Reflect on your strengths and weakness in navigating difficult interpersonal situations.
Develop an action plan of how you will practice.
