Social Intelligence

Written By Colēgia

There are many different forms of intelligence out there which measure your aptitude in various fields. Traditional intelligence tests our logic and reasoning skills whereas emotional intelligence determines how well we can manage our feelings. Social intelligence is the culmination of our skills with others. Today we want to dive into this and why it is worth your time.

We're Social by Nature

Social intelligence is defined as “the ability to understand and manage interpersonal relationships.” As people, we are social by nature, and being able to harness the skillset needed for this can help dramatically. There are many subtleties that can be found within this and social intelligence involves a good understanding of these. One of the more immediate skills within this is the ability to be a good listener. This is essential as conversation requires two people and paying attention to the other side is needed as it can help you follow along. Active listening takes this a step further by using techniques such as paraphrasing to ensure that you're both on the same page. Non-verbal communication also falls under this as there are many things that are conveyed without us being required to speak. Body language for example can signal whether we feel open about discussing a subject or more reserved. Striking that balance between what we say with our words along with our body can help us be more expressive and communicate better.

“As people, we are social by nature, and being able to harness the skillset needed for this can help dramatically.”

It Improves Rapport

Rapport, otherwise known as “a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other's feelings or ideas and communicate well.” Within the context of social intelligence, it is good to consider the dynamic between yourself and someone else. There are many instances where we will be closer to specific people than others which can set the tone for how you behave around someone. A good example of this is a friend you've known for a long time that you're close with. Things such as playful teasing would be more appropriate here than with someone you don't have a close bond with. Small things such as this help highlight the importance of rapport and bring it to light. Some good ways to increase this are to talk to others while taking a genuine interest in them.

“Within the context of social intelligence, it is good to consider the dynamic between yourself and someone else.”

It Can Increase The Quality of Your Life

Having good social intelligence can increase the quality of your life in many ways. A good social network is one of the most apparent as it can give you a sense of community and belonging with others. This is important as it is one of our main needs within the hierarchy of needs. We rely on others for many things, whether it be for them to teach us about life concepts or simply to have someone to spend time with. People matter and communicating to others that you care along with being by their side can help you. Everyone matters and social intelligence recognizes this by giving you a means to interact with people in a positive manner.

Colēgia

Colēgia

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