Guide to Human Relations Management Theory

The human relations school of management has been around for quite some time, enjoying fairly wide acceptance. And while, even today not every company or manager embraces this management model, there's little doubt that it has changed overall management practice for the better.

Often referred to as motivational theory, human relations management theory views the employee differently than the more autocratic management theories of the past. Based on Douglas McGregor's X and Y Theories, HR management theory (Theory Y), assumes that people want to work, that they're responsible and self-motivated, that they want to succeed and that they understand their own position in the company hierarchy. This is the exact opposite of Theory X, which presumes that employees are lazy and unmotivated, that they seek nothing more from their jobs than security and that they require discipline from without. In short, human relations theory, rather than viewing the worker as merely one more cog in the company wheel, asserts that the organization will prosper as it helps the employee prosper. According to human relations management theory, some positive management actions that lead to employee motivation and improved performance are these:

1. Treating employees as if work is as natural as play or rest, just as motivational theory states

2. Sharing the big-picture objectives toward which their work is aimed

3. Empowering them to innovate and make as many independent decisions as they can handle

4. Training and developing them, increasing freedom and responsibility as their capabilities grow

5. Providing appropriate recognition and rewards when they achieve company goals

6. Using any other helpful theories of human relations that will keep them motivated toward excellence

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Learn all you can about human relations in business as it relates to human resource theory

Various types of courses are available in the different areas of employee management theory. Some are offered online and some at numerous seminar locations, some may be brought to your site and still others are combinations of the above methods which are known as blended learning.

I recommend: The AMA (American Management Association) offers numerous on-location Management and Supervisory Skills seminars. The organization also offers self-study courses in Managerial Skills. Blended learning is a third option that AMA offers to help you find the human relations management program that works best for you. ACCEL Team also provides an online Supervisor's Guide to Employee Motivation, which leads you step-by-step through the various practical applications of the best theories of human relations in business.

Acquire the HR tools and resources necessary to develop, empower and reward employees

When it comes to human resources, theory isn't enough. And though your positive attitude and supportive management style will be important, you'll also benefit from a few tools and other resources that have been designed to make your job easier.

I recommend: AMA offers a helpful e-newsletter which guides managers in employee training and development. OnlineOrganizing.com provides a helpful Delegation Checklist that makes it easier for you to effectively delegate tasks, while motivating and empowering employees and increasing their level of accountability at the same time. RewardsNation software can also simplify the rewards process through automation, making employee accomplishments easier to track.

Seek guidance as you incorporate human relations management theory into your company's program

The personal touch of a consultant, coach, or trainer can go a long way toward helping you put the human relations theory of management to work at your business.

I recommend: Liebowitz & Associates offers consulting and leadership training services in management and other areas. They also have programs customized for family-owned businesses (FOBs). The Winning Edge offers life and business coaching, helping you integrate the two spheres and fulfill your desire to implement human resources theory as part of your business strategy. Mike Stewart, of Sales Dynamics, also offers management training and executive coaching, along with other types of training for sales teams.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• As you implement your new HR management theory and begin testing the tools and resources you've chosen to make your job easier, always remember that your key human relations asset is you. Whatever other support methods you use, ultimately it will be your own supportive interaction with your employees that will make the greatest difference.

The official source of Human Relations Management Theory is
the Human Relations Management Theory page at Business.com