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TED Talks Daily

Are you a giver or a taker? | Adam Grant

Jan 3, 2017
In this engaging discussion, organizational psychologist Adam Grant explores the three types of workplace personalities: givers, takers, and matchers. He highlights how fostering a culture of generosity can enhance collaboration and productivity. Grant shares strategies to identify and mitigate the impact of self-serving behaviors while promoting helpfulness. He also introduces the concept of 'five-minute favors' as a way to nurture relationships and support givers, ultimately advocating for a supportive environment that prioritizes teamwork over competition.
13:29

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • Identifying and reducing the presence of takers in the workplace is crucial to promoting a healthier and more collaborative culture among givers and matchers.
  • Encouraging simple acts of support and a culture of help-seeking can alleviate giver burnout while enhancing overall organizational satisfaction and performance.

Deep dives

The Dynamics of Givers, Takers, and Matchers

The roles of givers, takers, and matchers in workplace dynamics are critically examined. Givers are characterized by their willingness to help others but can often be the worst performers due to their lack of focus on their own tasks. In contrast, takers may achieve short-term success but tend to fail in the long run, often facing pushback from matchers, who seek balance in give-and-take interactions. Ultimately, a culture that emphasizes collaboration and assistance among peers leads to better overall performance and satisfaction within organizations.

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