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Interpersonal Skills for Chemical Engineers

Career Catalyst
March
2020
Robert W. Bly

Don’t be a grouch — learn to get along with others.

It does not matter whether you are a people person, happy to work should-to-shoulder to tackle a project, or an introvert, at home in the lab or behind a computer. The corporate culture of today demands that you work well with others, regardless of your preference.

It is worthwhile to improve your interpersonal skills, as it can pay big dividends. People prefer to work with those they like, and being likeable gains you the cooperation of others who can help you achieve your goals. If you are gruff, indifferent, rude, impolite, mean, or unpleasant in any way, the people whose help you may need are less inclined to cooperate. A sour disposition may cause people to avoid you, and it can also bring down your own mood.

This article includes suggestions to help anyone be a better coworker, but will be particularly helpful for those who are admittedly not fond of groups, teams, employees, bosses, vendors, or customers...

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