By Eswar Praneeth Pendeyala | Apex Friendship High School, NC
We are growing up in a generation dominated by technology, automation and artificial intelligence, making it easy to overlook one of the most powerful drivers of business success: human connection. For us, DECA students preparing to become the next generation of leaders, understanding the value of relationships is just as important as mastering our technical skills.
In role-plays, success is not only about analyzing data or knowing your performance indicators; it's about your ability to communicate ideas clearly, reading the room and building rapport with the judge in just 10-30 minutes. How you communicate your ideas and interact with your judges often determines whether you get 1st place or 4th.
Human connection also plays a critical role for all leaders. Chapter officers who take the time to listen to members, recognize effort and foster inclusion create stronger, more engaged chapters. When people feel valued, they are more motivated to participate, collaborate and contribute to their community. Leadership in DECA is not just about directing others; instead, it's about connecting with them.
Networking is another area where human connection makes a lasting impact. Conferences, workshops and competitions offer opportunities to meet students, advisors, and professionals with similar interests. These connections can lead to mentorships, internships and friendships that can take you far beyond DECA. While digital platforms make communication easier, face-to-face interactions remain unmatched in building meaningful professional relationships.
Even as business becomes increasingly data-driven, human connection remains essential. Customers value authenticity, employees seek purpose, and organizations thrive when people feel understood. DECA prepares students to balance technical knowledge with interpersonal skills, ensuring they are ready to succeed in any career path.
Here's what I want you to take away from this: success is not achieved alone. Through collaboration, communication and genuine relationships, members learn that human connection is not just a soft skill; it's a leadership skill. In a world that is constantly evolving, the ability to connect with others will always remain a competitive advantage.
