Soft Skills Interpersonal Communication 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which technique involves repeating the speaker's words back to them in your own words to confirm understanding?
- Paraphrasing (Correct answer)
- Interrupting
- Deflecting
- Mirroring body language
Correct answer: Paraphrasing
Paraphrasing restates the speaker's message in your own words, confirming comprehension and showing engagement.
Question 2: When a colleague is visibly upset, the BEST first response is to:
- Offer immediate solutions to fix the problem
- Acknowledge their feelings before problem-solving (Correct answer)
- Change the subject to lighten the mood
- Tell them not to take things personally
Correct answer: Acknowledge their feelings before problem-solving
Acknowledging emotions first validates the person and builds trust before moving into problem-solving mode.
Question 3: The 'halo effect' in interpersonal communication refers to:
- Positive body language during praise
- Letting one positive trait color overall perception of a person (Correct answer)
- The glow of a well-delivered compliment
- Maintaining eye contact throughout a conversation
Correct answer: Letting one positive trait color overall perception of a person
The halo effect is a cognitive bias where one favorable trait leads us to assume other positive qualities in a person.
Question 4: Which communication style is characterized by expressing needs clearly while respecting others' rights?
- Passive
- Aggressive
- Assertive (Correct answer)
- Passive-aggressive
Correct answer: Assertive
Assertive communication balances honest self-expression with respect for the other person's perspective and boundaries.
Question 5: Proxemics in interpersonal communication refers to:
- The tone and pitch of your voice
- The use of physical space and distance between people (Correct answer)
- Eye contact patterns during conversation
- The speed at which you speak
Correct answer: The use of physical space and distance between people
Proxemics is the study of how physical distance and personal space communicate relationship and comfort levels.
Question 6: A coworker says 'Fine, do whatever you want' in a flat tone while crossing their arms. This is an example of:
- Congruent communication
- Assertive refusal
- Incongruent communication (Correct answer)
- Transparent feedback
Correct answer: Incongruent communication
Incongruent communication occurs when verbal and nonverbal messages contradict each other, creating confusion.
Question 7: Which factor most strongly determines whether feedback is received positively?
- The length of the feedback
- The timing and perceived intent of the feedback (Correct answer)
- Using formal language
- Delivering feedback in writing
Correct answer: The timing and perceived intent of the feedback
People are most receptive to feedback when it is timely and they believe the giver genuinely wants to help them improve.
Soft Skills Interpersonal Communication 2
Which technique involves repeating the speaker's words back to them in your own words to confirm understanding?