The Human Relations Approach

Chapter 3: Three Early Perspectives on Organizations and Communication

In Chapter 3, I was especially struck by the significance of the human relations approach and the defining work of Mary Parker Follett. Follet stressed the importance of empowering workers to solve problems and accomplishing tasks. An effective manager will use communication and information as a mechanism for this empowerment. In making one's employees a part of the solution, an effective manager has organized a team capable of meeting and exceeding employment expectations. Involving all workers on such a personal level creates a more engaged and as such, a much more competent and effective team. Too often we ignore the personalities involved when communicating with team members or subordinates. It is incredibly important to make sure that the significance of the project, whether it be something as notable as a community organizing towards reducing blight or graffiti or something as simple as filing a quarterly sales report, is not lost upon one's employees or peers. In my experience it is the empowered worker that is always the most effective.