This study investigates the pivotal role of interpersonal relationships in enhancing teamwork among staff at Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo. Drawing on the Social Exchange Theory, the research explores how effective communication, active listening, and empathy collectively influence the dynamics of collaboration within academic and administrative environments. Using a structured questionnaire administered to 100 purposively selected staff members, the study employed descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analyses via SPSS v26. Findings reveal that all three interpersonal variables are positively and significantly related to teamwork, with empathy emerging as the strongest predictor (β = 0.42), followed by effective communication (β = 0.38) and active listening (β = 0.29). The results underscore the critical importance of fostering emotionally intelligent behaviours and relational competencies in academic institutions. The study recommends regular interpersonal skills training, emotional intelligence coaching for leaders, digital communication reforms, and structured mentorship programmes. These initiatives are essential for cultivating a harmonious, inclusive, and performance-driven university workforce. Ultimately, the research contributes to the growing body of knowledge emphasizing that positive interpersonal relationships are not optional extras but strategic tools for institutional effectiveness and staff well-being.