7 signs you have better social skills than the average person, according to psychology

Ever wondered if your social skills are sharper than the rest? It’s not just about being the life of the party or having a massive friend circle.

According to psychology, having superior social skills boils down to key behavioral signs that display empathy, understanding, and effective communication. These signs can also play a pivotal role in your entrepreneurial journey, subtly influencing business relationships and driving success.

So what are these indicators that you’re socially savvier than most? Let’s dive into the 7 signs, and see how you measure up. Remember, it’s not about manipulation, but genuinely connecting with others to create a positive impact.

Stay tuned!

1) You’re a master of active listening

Active listening is one of the fundamental signs of excellent social skills. It’s not just about hearing words. It involves understanding the implicit message, showing empathy, and responding appropriately.

In the rush of entrepreneurial life, it’s easy to get caught in the trap of passive listening, where you’re physically present but mentally elsewhere. However, those with better than average social skills know how to be truly present in a conversation.

Famed psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “When someone really hears you without passing judgment on you, without trying to take responsibility for you, without trying to mold you, it feels damn good!”

This quote beautifully captures the essence of active listening. It’s about creating a safe space for the other person to express themselves freely. When you listen actively, you’re not just building stronger relationships but also gaining insights that can be valuable in your entrepreneurial journey.

Remember, genuine active listening is far from manipulative. It’s about understanding and valuing the speaker’s perspective and responding with empathy and respect.

2) You’re an expert at non-verbal communication

Non-verbal cues are a vital part of effective socializing. According to psychologist Albert Mehrabian, communication is 55% nonverbal, 38% vocal, and 7% words only. That’s how important your body language, facial expressions, and gestures are in conveying your message.

I remember an instance when I was negotiating a crucial deal for my business. The client was hesitant, and the conversation was going in circles.

That’s when I decided to lean in slightly, maintain eye contact, and mirror his body language subtly. This non-verbal communication created a sense of rapport and trust, which eventually led to us closing the deal successfully.

The experience taught me that words are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to communication. Body language can often speak louder than words, creating an unspoken connection that helps in fostering strong relationships.

Mastering non-verbal communication is indeed a sign of better social skills, and it can make a huge difference in both your personal and professional life.

3) You have the ability to manage conflicts effectively

Ever found yourself in the middle of a heated argument? It’s an uncomfortable situation, isn’t it? But here’s the deal – if you’re someone who can navigate through these tricky waters with grace and tact, you’ve got better social skills than most.

Conflict resolution is a powerful social skill. It requires a blend of empathy, active listening, clear communication, and patience. It’s about understanding different viewpoints and finding a common ground.

There was a time when I found myself in the middle of a major disagreement at work. Emotions were running high, and it seemed impossible to find a solution that would satisfy everyone.

But instead of getting defensive or pushing my viewpoint aggressively, I chose to be honest about my feelings and listen to others with an open mind. This approach not only resolved the conflict but also strengthened our team’s bond.

If you’re someone who can handle conflicts without losing your cool and while maintaining respect for all involved, congratulations! You’re way ahead in the social skills game.

4) You are exceptionally empathetic

Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others – is a true hallmark of superior social skills. It’s what allows us to connect with others on a deeper level, build stronger relationships, and create a supportive environment.

A study found that people who display high levels of empathy are better at recognizing emotions in others. They’re more attuned to subtle cues like facial expressions and body language, which helps them respond appropriately to others’ emotional states.

Think about it: how many times have you been able to sense a friend’s distress even before they’ve said a word? Or how often have you been able to comfort a colleague simply by understanding their perspective?

These instances of empathy not only reflect your social prowess but also contribute to creating a positive and supportive atmosphere around you.

So, if you’re someone who naturally empathizes with others and responds with understanding and compassion, you’ve got one of the most crucial social skills nailed.

5) You’re adept at expressing gratitude

Gratitude is more than just a polite “thank you.” It’s an attitude of appreciation that enhances our interpersonal relationships and contributes to our overall happiness.

I’ve always believed in the power of expressing gratitude. Whether it’s thanking a colleague for their help or appreciating a friend for their support, these small gestures of gratitude can strengthen bonds and cultivate positivity.

Psychologist Robert Emmons, a leading expert on gratitude, once said, “Gratitude is a way for people to appreciate what they have instead of always reaching for something new in the hopes it will make them happier.”

This quote beautifully encapsulates how gratitude can shift our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering a sense of contentment and enhancing our social interactions.

So, if you’re someone who regularly expresses gratitude and appreciates the good in your life, you’re not just socially skilled; you’re also sowing the seeds for greater happiness and satisfaction.

6) You’re comfortable with silence

Isn’t it ironic that comfort with silence indicates superior social skills? But it’s true. Being comfortable with silence shows a level of self-confidence and understanding that most people lack.

Silence is often seen as awkward in social situations. However, those with excellent social skills know that silence can provide space for reflection, deeper understanding, and stronger connections.

So, if you’re someone who remains calm during silent moments, not rushing to fill every pause with words, you exhibit a characteristic of superior social skills. Embracing silence reveals your ability to let conversations breathe and gives others the space they need to express themselves fully.

7) You’re adaptable

Adaptability is a key social skill. It’s about adjusting your behavior according to the situation and the people you’re interacting with.

Psychologist Albert Bandura said, “In order to succeed, people need a sense of self-efficacy, strive together with resilience to meet the inevitable obstacles and inequities of life.”

This quote underlines the importance of adaptability in overcoming life’s challenges.

So, if you’re someone who can seamlessly blend into different social settings and adjust your communication style as needed, it’s a clear sign that your social skills are top-notch.

Wrapping up

Social skills are an intricate blend of understanding, empathy, communication, and adaptability. They shape our interactions and relationships, influencing both our personal and professional lives.

As we peel back the layers of these skills, it’s evident that they’re not about manipulation or pretense, but about authentic connection and mutual respect.

So, as you navigate through your life – whether it’s in the bustling corridors of your workplace or the quiet comfort of your home – remember these signs. Reflect on them, embrace them, and continue to nurture your social skills.

Because at the end of the day, it’s these genuine connections that enrich our lives, making our journey more meaningful and fulfilling.