Michele Gelfand

Professor Michele Gelfand, an expert in organizational behavior and cross-cultural management at Stanford, joins the conversation to shed light on the art of negotiation. She emphasizes the power of creativity and cultural intelligence in resolving conflicts, stressing that effective negotiation is about meeting everyone’s needs. Gelfand shares strategies for listening to diverse viewpoints and using storytelling to navigate conflicts. Her insights reveal how the best negotiators are those who craft collaborative solutions that benefit all parties involved.

In this engaging discussion, Michelle Gelfand, a cross-cultural management expert, delves into the dynamics of negotiation and the impact of cultural tightness versus looseness on behavior. Brian Lowery unpacks the societal implications of racial perceptions and the quest for meaning beyond achievements. Deborah Gruenfeld shares insights on power dynamics and personal presence, while Zakary Tormala explores the art of persuasion and the significance of word choice. This lively panel offers rich perspectives for enhancing communication skills and understanding diverse environments.

Michele Gelfand, a Stanford GSB professor specializing in cultural dynamics, discusses her framework on "tight" and "loose" cultures and their societal impacts. Jonathan Levav, a marketing expert, sheds light on decision fatigue, emphasizing how mental energy affects choices in judicial contexts. Szu-chi Huang explores the intersection of motivation and emotion in decision-making, illustrating its significance in effective communication and marketing strategies. Together, they unveil the intricate factors that shape our everyday decisions.