There are three myths about human relations: (1) technical skills are more important than human relations skills; (2) it’s just common sense; and (3) leaders are born, not made.
Some people believe that a human relations or organizational behavior (OB) course is less important than more technical courses, such as computer science and accounting. Yes, technology is important, but it is people who develop the tech. The job market’s most sought-after skills are people skills.
Thus, management education is placing more emphasis on people and leadership skill development.
Some people believe that human relations is simple and just common sense.
Do you always get along well with your family and friends and coworkers—no conflicts? If human relations is just common sense, then why don’t we all always get along? How do human relations affect your personal and job satisfaction? Developing good relationships is critical to personal and professional success, and that’s a skill you can develop.
Leadership skills are crucial for success in today’s business world. The question “Are leaders born or made?” has been researched over the years.
Leadership experts generally agree that some people have more natural leadership ability but that leadership skills can be developed. Regardless of your natural ability, you can develop your human relations skills.
The term human relations means interactions among people. Organizations can’t function without human relations. The goal of human relations is to create a win–win situation by satisfying employee needs while achieving organizational objectives. The total person approach realizes that an organization employs the whole person, not just his or her job skills. It is important to understand the whole person. Holistic thinking helps us to better understand and work better with others. People play many roles throughout their lives, indeed, throughout each day.