120. Stress bragging, Gen-Z jargon and pets on Zoom - This Week in Work, 6th August 2024

Welcome to another episode of Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network.

In this engaging episode, Al and Leanne discuss the latest trends in workplace culture, share insights from recent studies, and tackle your most pressing workplace dilemmas in our famous weekly workplace surgery.

Segment 1: News Round-up

Leanne on "Stress Bragging"

Leanne introduces a new term: "Stress Bragging," where people talk about their stress levels as a badge of honor. She explains how this phenomenon can actually alienate colleagues and make us seem less competent. A study from Personnel Psychology by Jessica B. Rodell shows that stress bragging can create more workplace anxiety and reduce the willingness of coworkers to help.

Read the full paper here: Rodell J. B., Shanklin B. C., & Frank E. L. (2024). "I'm so stressed!": The relational consequences of stress bragging. Personnel Psychology.

Al on Gen Z Slang

Al shares a guide to Gen Z slang from a recent Forbes article, highlighting terms like "No Cap," "That Slaps," and "Menty B." He advises caution for older generations trying to use these terms, comparing it to the embarrassment of watching your parents dance.

Read the full article: Forbes Guide to Gen Z Slang.

Leanne on Kamala Harris' Laugh

Leanne discusses an Inc article about Kamala Harris' laugh and its psychological impact. She highlights research showing that laughter can boost motivation and team effectiveness, and how positive emotions can lead to success.

Read the full article: Inc on Kamala Harris' Laugh.

Segment 2: Future of Work

What Will Work Look Like in 2074?

Al and Leanne discuss a fascinating YouTube video that explores predictions for the future of work in 2074. They delve into potential changes in technology, workplace culture, and job roles.

Watch the video: The Future of Work in 2074.

Segment 3: Weekly Workplace Surgery

Q1: Using Memes in Workplace Communication

A listener asks about the appropriateness of using memes in work chats. Al and Leanne discuss the balance between fun and professionalism, offering advice on how to encourage a light-hearted atmosphere without compromising on work ethics.

Q2: Pets in Zoom Meetings

A remote team leader is concerned about pets distracting from work during Zoom meetings. Leanne and Al debate whether to ban pets from meetings and how to address this issue without sounding too authoritarian.

Q3: Transitioning to a Management Role

A listener who is up for a promotion worries about transitioning from being a peer to a manager. Al and Leanne offer strategies for easing this transition and ensuring a smooth change in dynamics with coworkers.

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Mental Health Resources

United Kingdom:

• Mind: www.mind.org.uk
• Samaritans: Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

United States:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 1-800-273-8255 or visit suicidepreventionlifeline.org
• Mental Health America: www.mhanational.org
• Crisis Text Line: Text "HELLO" to 741741 or visit crisistextline.org

Rest of the World:

• International Association for Suicide Prevention (IASP): www.iasp.info
• Befrienders Worldwide: www.befrienders.org

Stay tuned, subscribe, and we'll see you next week!