HUMAN A R C H 5 0 2

RELATIONS
MANAGEMENT
THEORY
by ELTON MAYO
 WHAT IS
HUMAN
RELATIONS?
Human relations theory is the humanistic way of managing
people in an organization. It holds the belief that valuing
employees’ feelings, emotions, needs, and attitudes,
prompting teamwork, employee participation, non-directive
supervision, good relationships between managers and
workers, etc. are the key ways to employee motivation and
productivity, of the whole organization.
This theory emphasizes that managers should be more sensitive to employees’ needs and attitudes. Employees i.e.
workers should be treated as human beings not only as factors of production.
ELTON MAYO
1880-1949

an Australian Psychologist, developed this human

relations theory.
According to him, workers’ work satisfaction is
necessary for productivity, and money is not the
only factor for workers’ Motivation depends on
various factors, and the workplace should have a
healthy working environment.
Elton Mayo is in opposition to the classical
management theories of F.W. Taylor, Henri Fayol,
and Max Weber. All these three classical theories
have a common thing of rigid structure ignoring
workers’ sentiments and only being focused on
productivity. Mayo stated that these theories were
suitable for the industrial age but were not so
suitable in this modern practice.
THE NEED FOR HUMAN RELATION SKILLS
COMMUNICATION - At the core of the human relations approach to
management lies strong communication skills. It ensures that
everyone in the organization is on the same page. It encompasses all
forms of communication—verbal, non-verbal and written.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION - It’s no secret that employees come
from multiple walks of life. This further leads to diverse
personality types, outlooks and goals all working together. There
may be times when you don’t agree with someone’s perspectives
and you have every right to respectfully disagree. This is why
conflict resolution skills are important as they help people
address and resolve issues in a civil manner.
ORGANIZATION - One of the most important skills in the
human relations approach, organization impacts all areas of
work. Whether it’s your workflow or physical workspace,
staying organized has several benefits. It helps you
prioritize your work and manage your time better. It’s a key
element in creating an efficient workflow.
Putting The Human Relations
Theory Into Action
PROVIDE CONTEXT
Employees are often
unable to see the bigger
picture. As a result, it’s
difficult for them to find
meaning in their work. This
can negatively impact
employee morale and
increase the risk of them
quitting their jobs.
COLLECT FEEDBACK
Communication is a two-
way street. If you want to
strengthen relationships,
collaboration and
efficiency, you need to
hear others out as well.
You can actively solicit
employee feedback
through surveys or one-
on-one meetings.
IDENTIFY UNIQUE
NEEDS
One of the core tenets of
the human relations theory
is that every individual is
unique. One size doesn’t fit
all, which is why you need
to understand individual
perspectives and
preferences. Understanding
their motivation and work
styles can help you tailor
your management style.
Back to Agenda
Putting The Human Relations
Theory Into Action
OFFER PRAISE MAKE ROOM FOR
AND RECOGNITION BONDING
While monetary benefits We often interact and
act as strong motivators, engage with coworkers
they alone don’t suffice. because we’re required to.
You need to make your However, interpersonal
employees feel valued as relationships need not
well. Recognize or necessarily be
celebrate their hard work transactional.
whenever possible.

Back to Agenda
KEY POINTS
Humans Are Complex And Different Factors
Influence Their Behavior

Group Dynamics (Team Relations) Influence Job

Performance And Output

Managers Should Understand That Employees

Have Unique Needs And One Size Doesn’t Fit All;
Communication Is Essential Between Managers
And Employees
People Aren’t Solely Motivated By Compensation;
Finding Meaning In Their Work Is Important As Well

Employees Are More Open To Change When Given

The Opportunity To Participate