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.
