Abstract: This article examines the longitudinal relationships between leader gender, leadership style, gender congruence between leaders and followers, and employee job satisfaction over time. Drawing on gender stereotype and role congruity theories, it reviews how communal attributes ascribed to females can initially disadvantage women in leaders…

Abstract: Effective leadership is essential for organizations to thrive in today’s fast-paced and complex business environment. However, many companies face critical leadership development gaps, particularly in managing change, attracting and retaining top talent, and fostering diversity. This article examines these challenges and provides actionab…

Abstract: This article provides evidence-based strategies for capitalizing on slow work cycles rather than letting productivity suffer. Drawing on over 40 years of scholarly literature across multiple disciplines, the article outlines a framework for constructively navigating periods of lower workload. It advocates first adjusting one's mindset to …

Abstract: In a world characterized by constant change and disruption, organizations must embrace adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning to remain competitive. This article explores how leaders can build "future-fit" organizations through strategic mindset shifts and by fostering cultures of experimentation and growth. A focus on learning…

Abstract: As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies continue to rapidly advance, they have significant implications for the nature of leadership and the skills future leaders will need to be successful. This article explores the concept of "leadership intelligence" and its importance for nurturing emerging leaders who can guide organizations nav…

Abstract: In an era of heightened global competition, organizational success can no longer rely solely on efficiency, quality, and customer retention. This article makes the case for prioritizing value creation as the new guiding principle, emphasizing the need to generate value not only for shareholders but across all stakeholders—including employ…

Abstract: This article explores key HR technology-related controversies that will continue shaping organizational culture and workforce strategies through 2025. The article examines four controversial issues prevalent in today's literature: 1) Finding balance between employee data access enabling effective people strategies while respecting individ…

Abstract: This article explores research-backed principles for effectively leading remote teams. As employee expectations and work styles have evolved with technological change and the COVID-19 pandemic, managing virtual employees presents unique challenges compared to in-office teams. Remote management requires a shift from traditional top-down st…

Abstract: Gender pay gaps persist as a stubborn workplace inequity despite decades of progress toward closing divides. As an organizational effectiveness consultant passionate about advancing fair treatment, this inconsistency struck the author as an issue warranting innovative solutions. This article explores the promising approach of mandated pay…

Abstract: The role of the manager has become increasingly complex due to forces such as globalization, technology disruption, and changing worker expectations, requiring proficiency across strategic planning, leading others, communicating, developing talent, and other diverse hard and soft skills to navigate today's volatile business environment su…

Abstract: This article proposes an alternative, future-focused approach to strategic planning inspired by practices in futures studies and strategic foresight. Traditional strategic planning tends to rely on analyzing past trends and current conditions, limiting creativity and adaptive capacity. In contrast, a futurist approach frames strategy arou…

Abstract: This article explores research-backed strategies for dealing with the chronic feelings of being overwhelmed that affect an estimated 75% of today's business professionals according to existing research. With overwhelm linked to negative consequences such as burnout, poor decision-making, and an inability to meet organizational goals, the …

Abstract: This article discusses strategies for constructively addressing microaggressions, which are subtle verbal, nonverbal, or environmental slights that communicate hostile or derogatory messages to marginalized groups in the workplace. Microaggressions undermine diversity and inclusion efforts and have negative consequences for targets' well-…

Abstract: This article discusses how leadership behaviors can inadvertently undermine employee engagement and drive top performers to seek new opportunities. It identifies five areas where leaders commonly fall short: lack of recognition and praise for good work, insufficient meaningful feedback, unclear career growth opportunities, poor work-life …

Abstract: This article explores how compassionate leadership can thrive even within organizations primarily focused on results and profits. It defines compassionate leadership as understanding employees holistically and building trusting relationships. While compassion can clash with short-term, numbers-driven cultures, the article outlines strateg…

Abstract: This article explores strategies for encouraging innovation among busy employees and teams. As work demands continue intensifying, managers face pressure to maximize productivity while also driving organizational growth through creative problem-solving and idea generation. However, the brief argues innovation need not come at the expense …

Abstract: This article examines the challenges of developing an innovative culture within organizations based on academic research and examples from diverse industries. While innovation is recognized as strategically important, the research finds that truly innovative cultures do not emerge from top-down mandates alone but rather develop organicall…

Abstract: Getting your ideas heard and influencing outcomes at work can be challenging given modern distractions and information overload. This practitioner-focused brief explores evidence-based communication strategies for capturing attention and gaining buy-in. Drawing from research in cognitive psychology, persuasion, and leadership storytelling…

Abstract: This article provides organizational leaders seeking to disrupt entrenched cultures of overwork with practical strategies drawn from academic literature and the authors' consulting experience. It explores key drivers of overwork at both the organizational level, such as a lack of boundaries between work and personal time, perceptions of o…

Abstract: This article explores the topic of workaholism and provides strategies for maintaining a productive and sustainable work drive. It begins by defining workaholism according to expert research as excessive work engagement driven by internal pressures rather than job demands, to the point of causing problems in other life domains. The costs …

Abstract: This article examines how leaders can apply concepts from complexity theory to take a systems-based approach to navigating organizational complexity. It first defines key ideas from complexity science such as complexity theory, which views organizations as existing in a state of productive tension at the "edge of chaos" rather than under …

Abstract: This article explores how organizations can cultivate a thriving learning culture, which is crucial for success in today's knowledge-based economy. It defines the key dimensions that characterize a learning culture based on an analysis of relevant academic literature. Practical recommendations and examples are then provided for establishi…

Abstract: This article explores when it is appropriate for leaders to consider stepping down from their roles and passing the torch to new leadership. It examines signs that it may be time to transition based on research on leadership fatigue, stagnating vision, and succession planning. Specific factors discussed include declining health and enthus…

Abstract: Teambuilding is a critical yet challenging aspect of organizational management. Effective teams do not happen by chance; they require deliberate effort to cultivate the right conditions for collaboration, performance, and sustainability over time. This article synthesizes insights from scholarly literature on teams with consulting experie…

Abstract: This article explores the distinction between authentic and self-serving applications of emotional intelligence (EI) in leadership. While EI refers to the ability to understand and manage emotions, leaders utilize this competency in different ways - some authentically to connect with others, others more manipulatively for self-gain. The r…

Abstract: Effective preparation and support of first-time leaders is critical for individual and organizational success yet often lacking in many companies. This article outlines evidence-based strategies for equipping emerging supervisors and managers drawn from consulting experience and academic literature. Recommendations are provided for frontl…

Abstract: This article discusses research-based strategies that organizational leaders can use to effectively implement unpopular decisions and gain acceptance of necessary changes from employees and stakeholders. It outlines the importance of clear communication to explain the rationale and context behind tough choices. Leaders must be transparent…

Abstract: This article explores the limitations of traditional performance metrics commonly used in organizations and proposes alternative approaches for measuring what truly drives success in the modern workplace. It is argued that an overreliance on narrowly quantitative targets can distort priorities, undermine employee well-being and job satisf…

Abstract: This article explores the major factors that contribute to employee unhappiness and low engagement based on organizational behavior theory and empirical research. It identifies unclear role expectations, lack of autonomy, poor leadership, and unhealthy workplace cultures as key sources of job dissatisfaction. Research shows only 30% of wo…

Abstract: This article explores how leaders can apply principles of coaching to fuel greater employee engagement, development and performance. Drawing from both consulting experience and scholarly literature, core tenets of coach-like leadership are examined, including empowering others through questioning rather than directives, believing in emplo…

Abstract: This article outlines research-backed strategies for leaders to transform opponents in the workplace into allies through cooperative engagement and compromise. It discusses the importance of understanding different perspectives before taking action, in order to gain insight into motivations and build trust. Leaders should then refocus dis…

Abstract: Trusting Employees to Deliver Results in Times of Change explores the research foundation showing that building trust is key to empowering high performance, especially during periods of organizational change and uncertainty. Drawing from literature in psychology, management, and organizational behavior, the article discusses factors that …

Abstract: This article explores why leaders often try to avoid or delay making difficult decisions, and provides strategies for overcoming hesitancy. Common reasons for avoidance include the desire to maintain superficial harmony, fear of being wrong, and prioritizing personal comfort. However, the article argues that decision-making is a core lead…

Abstract: Organizational disruptions from events like the COVID-19 pandemic have demonstrated the importance of resilience - an organization's ability to anticipate risks, maintain core functions during crises, and adapt successfully. This article outlines eight design principles that research indicates can help build resilience into an organizatio…

Abstract: This article discusses how organizations can develop skills in their employees that cannot be replicated by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation technologies. It explores three categories of skills that are likely to withstand the rise of AI: creative and design skills, social and emotional skills, and adaptability and lifelong lea…

Abstract: This article explores how leaders can demonstrate their strategic thinking skills to key stakeholders through various actions and outputs. It first defines strategic thinking and its main components, including environmental scanning, future orientation, synthesis, adaptability, and intuition. The article then discusses how leaders can com…

Abstract: Employee retention is a key concern for organizations seeking to maintain talented workforces. Past research has consistently demonstrated a strong relationship between job satisfaction and employee turnover intention. However, questions remain regarding which specific factors influence satisfaction levels and how organizations can maximi…

Abstract: This article provides a practitioner-oriented examination of productivity from a systems perspective, challenging predominant views that blame low outputs solely on individual workers. It argues sustainable gains stem from optimizing processes, workflows and contextual supports—not micromanaging people. Five guiding principles are outline…

Abstract: This article explores research-backed strategies that organizational leaders can implement to effectively achieve work-life balance and integration. It discusses the importance of leaders setting clear expectations and boundaries around work hours and responsibilities through formal policies, communication of response times, and role mode…

Abstract: This article explores common reasons previously high-performing employees can lose their initial motivation and drive over time in the workplace. Drawing on motivation theory and academic research, four primary explanations are examined: unrealistic or unsustainable expectations that diminish self-efficacy; lack of autonomy, variety and i…

Abstract: This article presents a conceptual framework for leading beyond limits in today's volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) business environment. It argues that traditional leadership models are insufficient and organizations must cultivate expansive thinking, adaptive problem solving, empowering leadership, and trust-based, agil…

Abstract: This article provides strategies for individuals navigating the challenges of working for a boss who exhibits inconsistent leadership through frequent changes in priorities, direction, and decision-making. Key concepts are explored relating to the potential causes of unpredictable management, as well as the professional consequences it ca…

Abstract: This article discusses research-backed strategies for leaders to authentically generate and maintain organizational trust. It explores how trust is defined as the willingness to ascribe good intentions to others and have confidence in their words and actions. Studies show trust in leadership positively correlates with important work outco…

Abstract: This article examines what truly separates exceptional leaders from average performers based on leadership literature and the author's experiences in consulting and research. Through an analysis of key attributes demonstrated by highly successful leaders across sectors, five distinguishing characteristics emerge. Exceptional leaders demon…

Abstract: This article explores Edgar Schein's influential model of organizational culture and its application for business leaders seeking to assess and influence culture within their industries. Schein defines culture as having three levels - artifacts, espoused values, and basic underlying assumptions. By examining culture through this framework…

Abstract: Burnout presents a significant challenge for organizations seeking to promote employee well-being and performance. However, traditional views often attribute burnout to individual weaknesses rather than systemic causes embedded within workplace conditions and culture. This article provides a foundation for shifting perspectives on burnout…

Abstract: This article examines the importance of emotional intelligence for effective 21st century leadership. It defines emotional intelligence as having four key components - self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management - which allow leaders to connect with others, navigate social situations effectively, and mak…

Abstract: This article explores the potential costs of enforcing strict positivity norms and emotional display rules in organizational settings. It examines the concepts of emotional labor and surface acting through a review of the academic literature documenting the personal and interpersonal tolls of dissociating outward affect from inner feeling…

Abstract: This article proposes a holistic multi-pronged strategy for establishing an ethical workforce ready for the rise of AI, beginning with examining the current AI landscape and projections of jobs impacted to understand organizational preparedness needs. Key elements include developing an ethical framework through stakeholder engagement outl…

Abstract: This article explores the costs and benefits of working excessively long hours through an analysis of academic research and real-world industry examples. It argues that while dedication and hard work have driven success initially for many professionals, an "always on" culture risks normalizing unsustainable practices that undermine well-b…