What Are Critical Human Relations Skills?

Human relations refers to the interpersonal and group interactions of employees. Managers view human relations from the perspective or trying to create systems and communication channels that enable strong one-on-one and group employee relationships. From an individual employee perspective, human relations refers to your ability to interact in a healthy way with other people to build effective relationships. Key skills under the HR umbrella help you build and maintain strong relationships.

Communication is at the heart of human relations. The ability to clearly convey messages to others while also listening with the intent to understand is vital to strong, healthy relationships. Included within communication is the importance of self-disclosure and trust. Employees will feel closer to you if you show a willingness to share personal views and feelings and invite others to share their own perspectives. Communication makes the other party more comfortable, which aids human interaction.

To attract the interest of others you need to show empathy. This is a genuine interest in understanding the feelings and struggles of another person. Being able to put yourself emotionally into someone's situation allows you to better relate to his point of view. Just showing interest attracts the attention of those you want to build relationships with. Using your understanding of their situations, showing compassion and offering help when appropriate can strengthen your relationship.

Stress negatively impacts your personal life and health and puts a strain on your workplace relationships as well. When you experience stressful situations and don't respond with poise, you tend to say or do things that drive others away. Coping mechanisms and general calm under pressure make it easier for others to be around you and helps them remain at peace as well. This is especially important when working with a group or team.

The closest work relationships normally form over time and through various types of conflict. The ability to work well through conflict and tension and come to resolution brings people together. Avoiding conflict or approaching it with a combative, confrontational tone leads to tense and less pleasant relationships. Choosing the right setting and time to bring up disagreements or differing points of view is a start. Listening well to the opinions of others and selectively choosing your battles helps you work through conflicts. Compromise over minor problems makes sense, but you need to assert yourself on matters of principle.