Changing Dynamics of Human Relationships in Workplaces

People need people. Such is the human condition. And yet, there are workplaces where employers are concerned only about the bottom line and not about their employees, where employees are in conflict with their peers, where inequity, politics and disengagement make the workplace a toxic space to be in. If the underlying assumption is that business is only a matter of making profit, then what about the value of work relationships? The book briefly dwells upon the evolution of human relations approach to management and how highly successful companies have discovered the human side of their enterprise. They see the value of making relationships the new bottom line. Positive, caring and respectful relationships translate to performance and productivity. In the 21st century workplace with its emphasis on teams, flexibility, workforce diversity, virtual teams and business competition, stress, conflict and problems in relationships are inevitable. How can corporate leaders and managements create an organizational climate that nurtures human relationships as the foundation for business success? Skill in handling human relationships will greatly influence one’s success in satisfying personal needs and achieving organizational goals. The aim of the book is to create an awareness of the very foundations upon which human relationships are built. This is the starting point to developing relationship skills. In this regard, the book explores the dynamic interplay among psychological and social dimensions such as personality, perception, emotions, groups, communication etc. that underlie relationships, and highlights the key ingredients of the human relationships recipe, viz. emotional, social and spiritual intelligence as well as trust, sensitivity and empathy in communications which form the bedrock of positive human relationships. The topic is not just contemporary in nature but transcends time and cuts across all borders. It would be of immense relevance as it deals with concepts that offer value for individual and organizational success at all times and in all settings.