A graphic of the katz model with human colors.

The Growing Importance of Human Skills

01/17/2024 | RW Leadership Coaching LLC |

The Katz Model, as shown in the image above, sets expectations for employees at every level of an organization around technical, human, and conceptual skills. It emphasizes that regardless of where a person is in the organization, the expectation for them to be skillful with humans remains the same. In the past we would call these soft skills, but there is nothing soft about them. In fact, they are the hardest skills for most people to master because they require a lot of courage and perseverance.

With the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), a person’s level of competence in human skills is the prime differentiator for those in leadership positions. While AI is more reliable at performing repetitive tasks, it still lacks creativity and empathy. AI depends on data and algorithms while Humans can depend on logic, creativity, and empathic forms of leadership as well to develop solutions. I like the way Simon Sinek put it in this 2.5-minute YouTube video: Stop Saying Soft Skills — “The injection of humanity in a human enterprise pays dividends.”

Some soft skills in which You need to be highly proficient:

  • Effective communication (verbal, non-verbal, & written)
  • Collaboration
  • Adaptability
  • Problem-Solving
  • Time Prioritization
  • Emotional Intelligence (especially for Leaders)
  • Negotiation
  • Networking
  • Creativity

The best way to improve your human skills is to intentionally practice them. Because these skills are so hard to develop, you have to practice them every chance you get. It is best to work with a trusted coach or mentor to help you set goals and provide credible feedback as your skills develop. See my previous post titled, Mastery through Intentional Practice to learn more.

Ways to improve Your skills:

  • Be open to feedback and adapt.
  • Prioritize clarity in your communications.
  • Strengthen relationships by showing interest.
  • Demonstrate initiative.
  • Practice active listening.
  • Embrace and learn from change.
  • Value diverse perspectives and contribute positively.
  • Show appreciation and kindness.