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In this episode of Directionally Correct, hosts Cole & Scott welcome Mark Effron, President of the Talent Strategy Group, to explore the fascinating world of people analytics and talent management. Mark shares insights into his journey from being a political consultant to becoming a major influencer in HR, discussing how his experiences have shaped his approach to building high-performance teams.

Mark delves into the creation of his book, "Eight Steps to High Performance," emphasizing the importance of grounding HR practices in solid research rather than trends and anecdotes. He highlights the issue of over-complicating HR processes and how simplifying these practices can lead to significant organizational benefits.

Listeners will also hear engaging discussions on topics ranging from Muay Thai and its surprising correlations to rule-following and performance, to the pressing issue of remote work and RTO (Return to Office) policies. Mark offers his candid views on leadership styles, the authenticity debate in the age of AI, and the future of work.

This episode promises a thought-provoking conversation filled with laughs, insights, and actionable advice for anyone interested in enhancing their career and organizational outcomes through evidence-based HR practices.

Andre Ward | Ep 214 | ALL THE SMOKE Full Episode