HBR IdeaCast

Elsbeth Johnson, a senior lecturer at MIT Sloan School of Management and author of the article 'Why Aren’t I Better at Delegating?', dives into the struggles leaders face with delegation. She discusses psychological barriers like the fear of losing control and how they hinder team growth. Johnson shares practical strategies for enhancing delegation skills by aligning tasks with team members’ strengths and avoiding micromanagement. She also examines the role of clear expectations and resources, making delegation a vital leadership skill for organizational success.

Join comedian, speaker, and author Adam Christing as he reveals how humor can be a powerful tool for leaders. He outlines five types of humor that foster trust and connection without resorting to corny jokes. Christing emphasizes the importance of authenticity in humor and discusses how vulnerable, self-deprecating jokes can sometimes misfire. He also explores the intersection of humor and AI, advocating for genuine human connection in comedic leadership. Discover how to harness laughter to create a vibrant workplace culture!

Nick Foster, a seasoned futurist and designer with a background at Google X, Sony, and Dyson, shares his insights on enhancing long-term thinking in organizations. He emphasizes the importance of viewing the future through multiple lenses, rather than a single perspective, to foster better decision-making. The conversation critiques simplistic predictions and advocates for a nuanced, responsible approach to strategy. Foster also highlights the need for diverse perspectives to help traditional companies adapt and thrive amidst uncertainty.

Amit Joshi, a professor at IMD Business School and co-author of a key article on Chinese AI, discusses the rapid evolution of AI ecosystems and their strategies. He encourages leaders to consider integrating Chinese technology to enhance growth, despite potential risks. Joshi highlights advancements like DeepSeek and the unique advantages of Chinese AI platforms. He also addresses the complexities of US-China relations and the ethical implications of diverse regulatory landscapes, emphasizing collaborative opportunities for global companies.

Andrew Brodsky, a Professor at the McCombs School of Business and CEO of the Ping Group, shares insights on optimizing virtual communication. He discusses the evolution of digital interaction tools and stresses the need for intentional communication practices. Brodsky highlights the importance of fostering authentic connections and adapting strategies for different communication channels. He underscores the role of leaders in modeling effective practices and offers actionable tips for maximizing engagement and reducing miscommunication in virtual settings.

It might seem risky to base decisions as a leader on your gut feeling or intuition. But Laura Huang's research has found that intuition isn't just an arbitrary thought or emotion; that it’s the culmination of years of data and observation, and that it is worth listening to. The Northeastern University professor shares what she's learned about intuition, how we can recognize it and tap into it, and why it is a strength for business leaders. She's the author of the book You Already Know: The Science of Mastering Your Intuition. She also wrote the HBR article "How CEOs Hone and Harness Their Intuition."

High-achievers often neglect joy in their busy lives, but it’s essential for satisfaction and effective leadership. Strategies for utilizing limited free time include engaging in meaningful activities and prioritizing personal values. Discover the importance of balancing hobbies with social media habits to enhance overall happiness. The discussion emphasizes diversifying activities and protecting personal time from work pressures. Tools like the Life Matrix aid in achieving well-being amid hectic schedules, promoting a proactive approach to joy.

Peter T. Coleman, a conflict resolution expert at Columbia University, dives into the importance of conflict intelligence in today's workplaces. He argues that adaptability and creativity are crucial for effective conflict management. As external pressures like politics seep into offices, leaders must balance openness with respect. Coleman emphasizes strategies to enhance workplace culture and provide real-time feedback, ensuring organizations can navigate disputes while fostering collaboration and growth.

Tech speaker and journalist Alexandra Samuel shares her insights on harnessing AI as more than just a search engine. Many leaders are missing out on the real potential of AI tools like ChatGPT. Samuel encourages experimenting with AI assistants to improve decision-making and strategy. She discusses how to customize AI for tasks like project management and coaching, emphasizing the importance of context. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations and evolving human-AI relationships. Get ready to empower your own AI development!

Larry Summers, former U.S. Treasury Secretary and President Emeritus of Harvard University, shares his insights on navigating economic uncertainty. He discusses how businesses can maintain flexibility amidst challenges like AI advancements and inflation. Summers emphasizes the need for strategic adaptability in response to shifting economic policies and geopolitical tensions. He also critiques U.S.-China trade relations and advocates for gradual trust-building. Lastly, he highlights the importance of a cautious investment approach regarding the transformative potential of AI.