
Working It
Whether you’re the boss, the deputy or on your way up, we’re shaking up the way the world works. This is the podcast about doing work differently. Join host Isabel Berwick every Wednesday for expert analysis and watercooler chat about ahead-of-the-curve workplace trends, the big ideas shaping work today - and the old habits we need to leave behind. Brought to you by the Financial Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Feb 20, 2024 • 16min
Why people-pleasers fail
Exploring the downsides of people-pleasing in the workplace, with insights on setting boundaries and avoiding sacrificing work for approval. Discussions on balancing helpfulness and self-care, maintaining genuine relationships in professional services, and navigating boundary-setting in early relationships and workplaces. Also, the importance of clear communication and inter-generational learning in managing workplace dynamics.

11 snips
Feb 13, 2024 • 15min
Why ‘sh*t-fixers’ make the best managers
Huggy Rao, Stanford professor, talks about managers as 'shit-fixers' removing obstacles for their teams. Andrew Hill discusses consequences of too few checks and AI's impact on bureaucracy.

Feb 6, 2024 • 19min
The return-to-office debate is heating up
Hybrid working is an entrenched part of most office workers’ lives – but at some companies, that could be changing. Major firms including Bank of America and UPS are taking tougher stances on working from home. Will workers drag their feet in returning to the office? And if so, how can companies convince them to come back? Kevin Ellis, the UK head of PwC, tells guest host Andrew Hill why he encourages younger workers to come to work. Later, the FT’s global business columnist, Rana Foroohar, speaks to Jeremy Myerson and Phillip Ross – authors of the book ‘Unworking,’ about how better tech could win remote workers over.Want more? Free links:Bank of America warns return-to-office laggards with ‘letters of education’UPS to cut 12,000 jobs as revenue outlook falls short on weak parcel demand The home-working revolution is harming younger workersEmployers and staff seek truce on office working Presented by Isabel Berwick, produced by Mischa Frankl-Duval, mixed by Simon Panayi. The executive producer is Manuela Saragosa. Cheryl Brumley is the FT’s head of audio.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 30, 2024 • 18min
How can I help a grieving colleague?
Learn practical tips on dealing with workplace grief, supporting grieving colleagues, and navigating grief beyond bereavement. Discover the importance of open conversations, flexibility, and acknowledging different forms of grief. Explore strategies for creating a supportive workplace culture and providing emotional support in times of grief.

Jan 23, 2024 • 16min
Should companies snoop on their remote workers?
Liam Martin, co-founder of Time Doctor, and Diana Rodriguez from Tech8 USA discuss the debate around companies snooping on remote workers. Topics include the use of mouse jigglers, challenges of remote management, employee surveillance, and the role of Time Doctor in bridging the trust gap.

Jan 16, 2024 • 13min
Your best new hire may already be on staff
Global HR expert Josh Bersin discusses the benefits of internal development and the financial advantages of prioritizing internal mobility. The podcast explores the advantages and disadvantages of internal hiring, including the challenges of reskilling employees and the trend of recruiting people who already have jobs.

17 snips
Jan 9, 2024 • 18min
Productivity doesn't have to be hard work
How joy and play can enhance productivity, exploring the story of Richard Feynman. Importance of taking responsibility and finding enjoyment in work. Benefits of time boxing and dealing with distractions. How time boxing improves productivity and helps in living an intentional life.

Jan 2, 2024 • 18min
Best of: How to be more productive at work
Tips for avoiding distractions and achieving a state of 'flow' at work. Exploring the potential of AI for increasing productivity. Discussion on the addictive nature of smartphones and strategies to limit their use. The relevance of productivity in the digital age and recommendations for insightful resources. Strategies for improving productivity, minimizing distractions, and leveraging AI.

Dec 26, 2023 • 21min
What will work look like in 2024?
Explore how AI is expected to revolutionize the workplace in 2024. Discuss the impact of automation and remote work. Delve into culture wars and the changing landscape of work. Understand the importance of CEO statements and taking action. Explore challenges and balance for CEOs in the changing labor market.

Dec 19, 2023 • 20min
Has ‘retirement’ had its day?
Retirement has evolved from a sudden transition to a slower pace of work; the science of flourishing in later life is explored; the importance of staying engaged with old colleagues and new ideas is discussed; retirement is being redefined in a changing world; the significance of prioritizing happiness over societal norms and status symbols is highlighted.
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