What concept suggests that workers should be hired based on competence and abilities?

The concept that suggests workers should be hired based on competence and abilities aligns with one of the four overriding principles of scientific management. This principle emphasizes the importance of selecting the right individuals for the right tasks based on their skills and qualifications, which leads to increased efficiency and productivity in the workplace.

Scientific management, developed by Frederick W. Taylor, focused on optimizing work processes and ensuring that the most capable workers were placed in roles that matched their expertise. By hiring individuals based on their competence, organizations can create a more effective workforce that is better equipped to meet the demands of their roles. This approach not only maximizes individual performance but also contributes to the overall success of the organization.

Other concepts mentioned in the options, while valuable in their own right, do not specifically address the principle of hiring based on competencies. Fayol’s management functions emphasize broader managerial principles rather than hiring criteria. The human relations studies and Mayo’s work at Hawthorne primarily focus on employee motivation, social interactions, and workplace conditions rather than the selection process based on skills and abilities.