Leading with Humanity: The Power of Human Skills in Effective Leadership

In the era of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robot, deep learning, modern technology, automation and so on, we are in the quest of success and sustainability of organization where perfection and productivity are the sole criteria and human values, directly or indirectly, are gradually being undermined. To achieve the preset and expected goal, technical skills are undoubtedly important for certain roles within an organization, but there is a growing recognition that human skills are often more critical for effective leadership. Human skills, also known as soft skills or behavioral skills or interpersonal skills, covers a wide range of abilities that enable leaders to connect with others, foster collaboration, and drive organizational success. In contrast to technical skills, which are specific to certain tasks or industries, human skills are universally applicable across various roles and contexts. To ensure a highly productive environment in the office, it is necessary to be technically sound. However, one must also be behaviorally strong to address toxic work culture that can hinder productivity and interpersonally interactive to create a friendly environment in the office or workplace.

Research conducted by Harvard University, the Carnegie Foundation, and the Stanford Research Center reveals that 85% of career success is attributed to well-developed soft skills and people skills, while hard skills, such as technical expertise and knowledge, constitute only 15% of career success. Even in industries traditionally focused on technical prowess, such as engineering, the significance of soft skills is paramount. Surprisingly, personal qualities were cited more frequently than engineering knowledge when determining probable success or failure in engineering.

In 1998, Goleman articulated this significance in what has become one of HBR's enduring articles, "What Makes a Leader," stating unequivocally:

"The most effective leaders share a crucial similarity: they possess a high level of what is now recognized as emotional intelligence. While IQ and technical skills hold relevance, they merely serve as prerequisites for executive roles. My research, alongside other recent studies, conclusively demonstrates that emotional intelligence is the indispensable factor in leadership. Without it, an individual may possess the finest training, a sharp analytical mind, and a wealth of intelligent ideas, yet still fall short of becoming a remarkable leader."

Therefore, excelling in the workplace necessitates the refinement of soft skills, which paradoxically are often the most challenging to cultivate. Here are several reasons why human skills are highly desirable for leading any organization:

1.???? Adaptability and Resilience: In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, leaders must be adaptable and resilient in the face of uncertainty and change. Human skills such as emotional intelligence, empathy, and flexibility enable leaders to navigate complex challenges, inspire confidence in their teams, and pivot effectively when circumstances require it. Unlike technical skills, which may become obsolete as technologies and industries evolve, human skills provide leaders with enduring capabilities that are essential for long-term success.

2.???? Relationship Building: Effective leadership hinges on the ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organization. Leaders who possess strong interpersonal skills can foster trust, respect, and collaboration among team members, leading to higher levels of engagement, loyalty, and productivity. By creating a supportive and inclusive work environment, leaders can harness the collective talents and perspectives of their teams to achieve common goals.

3.???? Communication and Influence: Communication lies at the heart of effective leadership, and leaders with strong communication skills can articulate their vision, inspire others, and drive meaningful change. Whether delivering a motivational speech, facilitating a team meeting, or negotiating with external partners, leaders must be able to convey their ideas clearly, persuasively, and empathetically. By mastering the art of persuasion and influence, leaders can mobilize support for their initiatives and overcome resistance to change.

4.???? Conflict Resolution and Collaboration: Conflicts are inevitable in any organization, but effective leaders can turn them into opportunities for growth and collaboration. Human skills such as active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution enable leaders to navigate interpersonal conflicts constructively, fostering a culture of open communication, mutual respect, and cooperation. By mediating disputes, facilitating compromise, and promoting a spirit of teamwork, leaders can harness the diverse talents and perspectives of their teams to achieve collective success.

5.???? Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence, often regarded as one of the most critical human skills for leadership, encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management. Leaders who are emotionally intelligent can understand their own emotions and those of others, regulate their responses in challenging situations, and cultivate strong interpersonal relationships. By recognizing the impact of their actions and behaviors on others, emotionally intelligent leaders can create a positive work environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and empowered to perform at their best.

In conclusion, while technical skills are important for performing specific tasks or duties within an organization, human skills are often more critical for effective leadership. By honing their interpersonal abilities, leaders can build strong relationships, inspire trust, foster collaboration, and drive organizational success in any context or industry. As organizations increasingly prioritize qualities such as empathy, communication, and resilience in their leaders, the demand for human skills will continue to grow, underscoring their importance in leading any organization to achieve its strategic objectives.