THE ROLE OF PEOPLE SKILLS IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

Already quite a number of years ago, Peter Drucker wrote “The more we automate information-handling, the more we will have to create opportunities for effective communication.” In our days his words have not lost any of their relevance, on the contrary. Companies that are built on standardized processes and information sharing have an extra need of leaders with strong social skills to inspire motivation of the staff, to provide purpose, to give direction and to resolve conflict. HR strategies need to put special emphasis on people skills in talent management and internal structures and processes that foster personal communication. Especially in hybrid work settings there is additional need for meaningful face to face communication. Third party assessment of the current situation regarding leadership and effective communication is an important input for strategy planning and relevant development activities.