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HCI Podcast Network

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Leaders Who Don't Listen: An Ongoing Organizational Struggle, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
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13:00Abstract: This article explores the ongoing challenge of non-listening leadership and its detrimental impacts on organizations. Through a review of relevant research literature and practical examples, it highlights how failing to listen undermines relationships, employee engagement, innovation, decision-making, and overall performance—particularly …
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Embracing Lifelong Learning: How Organizations Can Foster a Culture of Continuous Development While Achieving Goals, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:22
11:22
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11:22Abstract: This article presents a framework for cultivating an organizational culture that supports continuous learning within the context of achieving work goals and objectives. Drawing on literature from the fields of organizational learning, knowledge management, and adult education, the article outlines challenges to integrated learning and wor…
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When the Going Gets Tough: Identifying and Overcoming Burnout as a Sign it May be Time for a New Job Opportunity, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
12:27
12:27
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12:27Abstract: Burnout is a significant issue facing professionals in a wide range of industries, yet it often goes unnoticed until the negative impacts emerge. This article explores the key dimensions of burnout as distinguished from temporary job stress, including emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy. A review of common si…
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The Power of Talk: Who Gets Heard and Why
10:30
10:30
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10:30Abstract: This article examines the factors that influence whose voices and perspectives gain influence within organizations. Through a review of the relevant literature across communication styles, cognitive biases, social hierarchies, and group dynamics, this research brief explores how certain individuals are more likely to have their ideas hear…
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Beyond Control: Understanding the Hidden Beliefs that Fuel Micromanagement, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:03
11:03
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11:03Abstract: This article explores the psychological drivers underlying micromanagement behaviors in organizational leaders. Drawing from scholarly literature in management, leadership, and psychology, common hidden beliefs that can fuel micromanagement are identified, including needs for certainty, perfectionism, external locus of control tendencies,…
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Reimagining Corporate Culture: The Strategic Impact of Workplace Flexibility
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17:05Abstract: This article explores how workplace flexibility policies influence corporate culture dimensions based on recent research and organizational data. Drawing on Glassdoor insights and academic studies, the evidence reveals correlations between flexibility arrangements and key cultural indicators including agility, work-life balance, leadershi…
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The Empowering Role of Empathy: How Connecting with Others Bolsters Leadership Success, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:40
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11:40Abstract: Empathy is an essential yet often overlooked component of successful leadership. This article explores the importance of empathy - defined as understanding another's perspective and feelings - for key leadership functions through a review of recent studies and insights from consulting experience. It examines how empathy strengthens relati…
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Are You Preparing for the Future of Work by Developing Skills That Won't Be Automated?, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
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10:30Abstract: This article examines how individuals and organizations can proactively develop skills that research indicates will remain difficult to automate as artificial intelligence and new technologies continue to transform the future of work. Through a review of comprehensive skills studies by McKinsey Global Institute, World Economic Forum, and …
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Understanding Self-Awareness: More Than a Buzzword, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:54
10:54
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10:54Abstract: This article explores the topic of self-awareness, an important yet often misunderstood concept, through a conceptual and practical lens. After defining self-awareness as having an accurate perception of one's abilities, characteristics and behaviors, the article examines self-awareness development as occurring along a continuum from subj…
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Collaborating from Afar: Tips for Maximizing Productivity When Your Team is Remote, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
12:37
12:37
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12:37Abstract: As more teams conduct their work remotely, effective collaboration across distances has become increasingly important. However, remote work also introduces unique challenges to teamwork and productivity that require strategic solutions. This practitioner-oriented brief provides research-backed guidance and examples for overcoming barriers…
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The Wellbeing Paradox in an AI World, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
13:34
13:34
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13:34Abstract: As artificial intelligence transforms work through automation, a "wellbeing paradox" may emerge if its social and psychological impacts are not consciously managed. This practitioner-focused research brief explores the tensions between AI's productivity gains and potential threats to human thriving. Through a review of recent studies at t…
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Beyond Micromanagement: The Risks of Under-Management in Organizations, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:57
11:57
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11:57Abstract: This practitioner research brief examines the under-explored issue of under-management in organizations and its implications for employee and organizational performance. Under-management is defined as a hands-off, laissez faire approach to management where leaders provide very low levels of oversight, guidance and support to direct report…
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Rethinking the Myth of Coming into the Office 5 Days a Week to Build Company Culture, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
8:31
8:31
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8:31Abstract: This research brief challenges the common assumption that having employees in the office together five days a week is essential for building and maintaining a strong organizational culture. Through a review and synthesis of relevant scholarly literature from fields such as management, psychology, and sociology, the article finds little em…
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Reducing Conflict and Elevating Your Impact: Strategies for Leading with Greater Effectiveness and Harmony, by Jonathan H Westover PhD
11:44
11:44
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11:44Abstract: This research brief examines strategies for leaders to more effectively manage conflict and enhance their positive influence. It explores how conflict, if left unresolved, can significantly undermine individual and organizational performance. The brief outlines a framework combining research insights with practical approaches for reducing…
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Enabling Lasting Behavioral Change: Evidence-Based Strategies for Organizational Implementation, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
24:47
24:47
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24:47Abstract: This article synthesizes research on behavioral change determinants and intervention strategies, drawing primarily from Albarracín et al.'s (2024) comprehensive meta-analysis of 147 studies. While many behavioral change frameworks focus on individual cognition, evidence suggests that high-impact interventions target access, habits, social…
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How Flat Hierarchies Can Discourage Women Applicants, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:47
9:47
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9:47Abstract: This article explores how flattened, team-oriented organizational structures aimed at boosting flexibility, collaboration, and innovation may unintentionally make it harder for women to navigate career opportunities and progression. Through a review of relevant academic literature, the article examines research showing that flattened hier…
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Rewire to Adapt: Neuroscience Strategies for Building Leadership Learning Agility, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
24:55
24:55
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24:55Abstract: This article examines how evidence-based neuroscience principles can be leveraged to develop learning agility in organizational leaders. Learning agility—the ability to quickly adapt, learn from experience, and apply new knowledge in changing situations—has become a crucial leadership capability in volatile business environments. Drawing …
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HR's Critical Role in Leveraging a Blended Workforce
10:22
10:22
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10:22Abstract: This paper examines the critical role human resources (HR) must play in ensuring the successful onboarding, integration and ongoing engagement of a blended workforce comprised of both traditional employees and alternative arrangements like contractors and gig workers. As many organizations adopt this model to increase flexibility and acce…
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Applying Maslow's Hierarchy to Optimize Company Culture, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:02
9:02
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9:02Abstract: This article explores how applying Maslow's classic hierarchy of needs theory to company culture can help optimize employee engagement, retention, and performance. Abraham Maslow's principles of motivation posit that lower-level physiological and safety needs must be reasonably satisfied before individuals strongly pursue higher psycholog…
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Changing Company Culture Requires a Movement, Not a Mandate, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
8:55
8:55
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8:55Abstract: Changing cultures within organizations has proven very difficult to achieve through top-down mandates and directives alone. However, some companies have succeeded in catalyzing large-scale cultural transformations by taking a different approach - sparking grassroots movements from within. This practitioner research brief examines why move…
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Maximizing the Value of International Experience: Strategies for Repatriation Success, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:38
9:38
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9:38Abstract: As globalization accelerates the movement of skilled talent internationally, successful repatriation has become a key retention and talent management issue for multinational organizations. This particle examines recent academic research on factors influencing repatriate job satisfaction and makes recommendations for applying findings to f…
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Why Do We Undervalue Competent Management, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:43
9:43
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9:43Abstract: This article examines why competent management is often undervalued within organizations despite its crucial role in driving operations, projects, culture and business results. Through analyzing relevant literature, key reasons for this undervaluation are explored, including perceptions of management as an "expected" task rather than acco…
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Exploring the Positive Impact of Secure Base Leadership: Thriving at Work as a Mediator Between High-Performance Human Resource Practices and Innovative Behavior, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:31
10:31
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10:31Abstract: This research brief explores the concept of secure base leadership and its potential role in mediating the relationship between strategic human resource practices and employee innovation and thriving. Secure base leadership, grounded in attachment theory, involves caring, trusting relationships where leaders act as a safe haven to help em…
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Building a Culture of Appreciation through Giving and Receiving Compliments at Work, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:10
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9:10Abstract: This article provides practical strategies for leaders and employees to foster a culture of appreciation in the workplace through thoughtful compliments. While recognition is important for engagement and satisfaction, many find expressing appreciation professionally uncomfortable. The article offers guidelines for sincerely complimenting …
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A Multi-Layered Perspective: Examining the Intersection of Gender and Race in Employee Engagement, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:50
11:50
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11:50Abstract: This research brief aims to provide a nuanced perspective on how the intersection of gender and race impacts employee engagement. Through a review of academic literature, key factors that shape engagement for women and employees of color are explored. While drivers like meaningful work and support apply broadly, gender and racial minority…
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When Work Piles Up: Maintaining Balance When Feeling Overwhelmed, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:24
10:24
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10:24Abstract: This article explores with research-backed strategies for maintaining balance and preventing burnout when feeling overwhelmed by high workload demands. The article begins by defining job overload and identifying common warning signs. It explores how to gain control over workload, expectations, and self-care through prioritizing tasks, set…
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HR's Vital Role in Advocating for and Protecting Employees in an Unhealthy Workplace, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:35
11:35
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11:35Abstract: This practitioner-focused essay examines the vital role that human resources (HR) professionals play in advocating for and protecting employees, especially in dysfunctional or unhealthy work environments. Drawing from the author's 15 years of experience in organizational consulting and academic research, it outlines the common signs of an…
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Combatting Contagious Stress: Building Your Resistance and Resilience in the Workplace, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
13:17
13:17
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13:17Abstract: This article explores stress contagion in organizational settings and provides strategies for building resilience against absorbing others' tensions. It begins by outlining the research demonstrating how stress transmits between individuals through unconscious neurological mirroring and limbic system processes. Left unaddressed, this "emo…
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Overcoming the Organizational Trust Crisis, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:12
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11:12Abstract: This article explores how organizational leaders can overcome issues of eroded trust within their companies. The article argues that trust is more critical than ever for effective leadership and strong business performance. However, recent scandals and a lack of faith in institutions have left many firms facing a "trust crisis." Drawing o…
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Mastering the Art of Productive Busyness, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:01
10:01
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10:01Abstract: This article explores a framework called "productive busyness." The framework aims to help professionals accomplish more work in less time by optimizing prioritization, focus, processes, and self-care. It is based on three core principles supported by research: prioritizing the highest value tasks, minimizing distractions through "deep wo…
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Managing Your Anxiety at Work, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
14:27
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14:27Abstract: This article provides practical recommendations for managing workplace anxiety. It begins by defining anxiety and explaining how anxious thinking patterns can negatively impact work performance if left unaddressed. Cognitive strategies are presented to challenge catastrophic thoughts and refocus on facts rather than feelings. Physiologica…
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How Our Careers Impact Our Families, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:28
9:28
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9:28Abstract: This article explores the intersection between professional careers and personal family life, focusing on how demanding jobs can both positively and negatively impact children, and what organizational leaders can do to promote healthier integration. The pressures of constant high achievement in many industries are discussed, and how an ov…
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Avoiding Burnout for Peak Performance, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:56
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11:56Abstract: This article discusses strategies that organizational leaders can implement to help employees avoid burnout and perform at their peak abilities. Burnout is defined using Maslach and Jackson's conceptualization involving emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment from chronic work stress. The negative impa…
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Faculty Entrepreneurship: Transforming Academic Expertise in the Evolving Higher Education Landscape, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
23:51
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23:51Abstract: This article examines faculty entrepreneurship as a strategic response to the evolving higher education landscape, exploring how academics can translate specialized knowledge into consulting, speaking, and content-creation ventures while maintaining scholarly integrity. Drawing on empirical research and successful implementation cases, th…
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Behaviors of Leaders Who Embrace Change, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
13:26
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13:26Abstract: This article examines the behaviors of leaders who effectively drive organizational change. As change is inevitable yet difficult, change leadership requires courage, forethought, and challenging ingrained mindsets. Five core leader behaviors that enable successful change are discussed. Leaders embrace ambiguity by investigating alternati…
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The Influence of Flexible Working Arrangements on Job Satisfaction: How Work-Life Balance Mediates Outcomes for Knowledge Workers, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
18:27
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18:27Abstract: This article examines the complex relationship between flexible working arrangements (FWAs) and job satisfaction among knowledge workers, with particular emphasis on work-life balance as a critical mediating factor. Drawing from extensive empirical research and organizational case studies across multiple industries, the analysis reveals t…
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Cultivating a Culture for Engagement: How a Company's DNA shapes its People, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:57
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9:57Abstract: This article examines how organizational culture impacts employee engagement levels. The article defines culture as the shared values and norms that guide behavior in a workplace, and engagement as an employee's willingness to contribute discretionary effort to their work. A review of research finds that cultures with active drivers of en…
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Unleashing Creativity throughout the Ranks: How Senior Leaders Can Cultivate Innovation at Every Level, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
12:24
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12:24Abstract: This article explores how senior managers can cultivate creativity and innovation throughout all levels of their organization. In today's fast-paced business environment, creativity is a strategic imperative for competitive advantage. However, many companies focus creative efforts at the executive level rather than empowering employees at…
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Why Apprenticeships Alone Won't Suffice in Today's Knowledge Economy, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
6:33
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6:33Abstract: This paper argues that skills training through apprenticeships or bootcamps alone cannot replace the broader benefits of higher education for success in today's knowledge economy. While technical skills are important, a liberal arts education uniquely develops higher-order capacities like critical thinking, complex problem-solving, writte…
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The Tragic Cost of Toxic Leadership: How Micromanagement and Lack of Trust Are Driving Away Your Best Employees, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
8:48
8:48
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8:48Abstract: This article explores how pervasive issues like micromanagement and lack of trust are inadvertently driving top talent away from organizations. The article argues that toxic leadership behaviors that undermine employee performance, engagement, and retention are commonly harming businesses. Two such behaviors, micromanagement and lack of t…
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Spotting the Signs: How to Identify Ineffective Leadership, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:15
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9:15Abstract: This article explores common signs of ineffective leadership that consultants and managers can learn to identify. The article outlines several red flags that indicate poor leadership competency. Specifically, the paper discusses lack of strategic vision, poor communication skills, low self-awareness, inability to develop talent, weak deci…
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Accommodating All Minds: Designing Inclusive Work Environments for Neurodiverse Talent, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
12:49
12:49
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12:49Abstract: This article discusses the importance of embracing neurodiversity and accommodating neurodivergent individuals in the modern workplace. The article argues traditional workplaces assume a singular definition of "normal" that marginalizes the 15-20% of the population with conditions like autism or ADHD. Through research and casework, the au…
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Toward an Updated Model of Engagement: How Worker Activation Impacts Men and Women's Discretionary Commitment, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
11:47
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11:47Abstract: This article proposes an updated model of employee engagement that takes a more nuanced view of how gender impacts commitment levels. Traditionally, engagement models have viewed employees as a homogeneous group and emphasized only organizational drivers. The concept of "worker activation" is introduced to represent the psychological reso…
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Facing Toxicity: Navigating Harmful Leadership, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:11
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10:11Abstract: This article explores principles and strategies for constructively confronting toxic leadership in organizational settings. Toxic leaders plague every industry through detrimental behaviors such as self-absorption, volatility, aggression, and prioritizing personal interests over the organization. While removing toxic individuals seems log…
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Why Women Score Higher Than Men in Most Leadership Skills, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:06
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9:06Abstract: This article examines gender differences in leadership styles and abilities. The research foundation section outlines studies finding women tend to outperform men in key leadership domains like emotional intelligence, collaboration and teamwork, and communication. Meta-analyses show women scoring higher in overall emotional intelligence a…
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Why Diverse Teams Are Smarter, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:52
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10:52Abstract: This article discusses the cognitive and business advantages of having diverse teams in organizations. A wealth of social science research demonstrates that cognitive diversity improves problem-solving as diverse backgrounds provide different perspectives and heuristics. Diversity also enhances decision-making through constructive debate …
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Leading Your Organization into the Future: A Skills-Based Approach, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:26
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10:26Abstract: This article explores how organizations can transition to a skills-based approach through examining the research foundation and providing practical recommendations based on work with companies that have successfully made this shift. It discusses how skills-based approaches are rooted in research showing the growing importance of digital s…
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The Rotten Apple: How Small Negative Behaviors Can Spread and Impact an Entire Team, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
10:01
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10:01Abstract: This article explores how disruptive behaviors from a single employee can spread to negatively impact an entire work team if not properly addressed. Grounded in research on social comparison theory, conformity bias, and group dynamics, it examines the psychological processes by which poor conduct becomes normalized and erodes team culture…
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Engagement vs. Productivity: Promoting Meaningful Work through Autonomy and Purpose, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD
9:24
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9:24Abstract: This article explores the relationship between employee engagement and productivity, arguing that promoting engagement alone does not necessarily increase productivity. It draws a distinction between engagement, defined as enthusiasm and commitment to work, and productivity, relating to outputs and results. While engagement and productivi…
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