Executives in an organization do not have good human relations because they have a “talent for people.” They have good human relations because they focus on contribution in their own work and in their relationships with others. As a result, their relationships are productive—and this is the only valid definition of “good human relations.

The focus on contribution by itself supplies the four basic requirements of effective human relations:

• communications;

• teamwork;

• self-development; and

• development of others.

There are fundamentals that characterize successful enterprises and successful executives.

• They are focused.

• They are superb at execution.

• They abound with personal leadership.

Focus on opportunities

Good executives focus on opportunities rather than problems. Problems have to be taken care of, of course; they must not be swept under the rug. But problem solving, however necessary, does not produce results. It prevents damage. Exploring opportunities produces results.

The focus on contribution by itself supplies the four basic requirements of effective human relations:

• communications;

• teamwork;

• self-development; and

• development of others.