HBR IdeaCast

Mita Mallick, Head of Inclusion, Equity, and Impact at Carta, sheds light on the pervasive issue of gaslighting in the workplace. She discusses how manipulative behavior can jeopardize both employee well-being and company culture. Mallick highlights ways to recognize these toxic interactions, the importance of documentation, and strategies for confronting gaslighting. She stresses leadership's role in creating a supportive environment and urges colleagues to take action against such harmful dynamics.

Art Markman, a psychology professor at the University of Texas and author, joins Caitlin Woolley, an associate professor at Cornell, to discuss the vital need for true vacations. They explore the challenges of unplugging from work in our always-on culture and analyze how the pandemic has affected our work-life balance. The duo shares strategies for effective delegation and organizational support that can promote meaningful time off. They also delve into how vacation policies can be reimagined to encourage better mental well-being and creativity.

Debbie Cohen and Kate Roeske-Zummer, cofounders of HumanityWorks and experts in employee retention, discuss the urgent need for organizations to focus on retaining their existing workforce amid the Great Resignation. They highlight the emotional toll of employee departures on remaining staff and emphasize the idea of treating employees like customers. The duo offers practical steps for managers to appreciate their team and cultivate a positive workplace culture, ensuring sustained engagement and loyalty.

Claudia Goldin, a Harvard historian and labor economist, sheds light on the persistent gender pay gap. She introduces the concept of 'greedy work,' where high-paying jobs demand total commitment, often sidelining women who manage caregiving responsibilities. Goldin discusses the changing perceptions of work-life balance, especially post-pandemic. She advocates for flexibility in high-demand positions, emphasizing that collaborative efforts will create fairer work environments. It's a compelling take on culture, ambition, and the future of gender equity in the workplace.

Rob Cross, a management professor at Babson College and expert on organizational dynamics, discusses the challenges many face when transitioning into new roles. He reveals that nearly half of new executives are viewed as disappointments within 18 months. Cross emphasizes the necessity of developing strategic networks and understanding team dynamics to enhance success. He also highlights the importance of storytelling in onboarding, showing how meaningful narratives can strengthen relationships and promote collaboration in today’s work environment.

Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez, former chairman of the Project Management Institute and author of the Harvard Business Review Project Management Handbook, dives into the rising significance of the project economy. He discusses how two-thirds of projects fail and shares insights on how to structure organizations around projects for success. Nieto-Rodriguez emphasizes prioritization, team engagement, and the necessity of aligning projects with broader business objectives to drive value creation and enhance leadership support. Tune in for practical advice on redefining project management!

Alexandra Feldberg, an assistant professor at Harvard Business School, and Tami Kim from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business share crucial insights on tackling bias in customer service. They reveal how everyday interactions can reflect deeper biases, stressing the need for companies to proactively address these issues. The discussion highlights the significance of data collection, employee accountability, and understanding diverse customer experiences to promote equity and enhance service quality. Their practical strategies aim to foster a more inclusive customer experience.

Amishi Jha is a neuroscience expert and professor at the University of Miami, focusing on attention science. In this conversation, she addresses our ever-distracted minds and offers strategies for improving focus in a noisy world. Jha highlights the effects of digital distractions and stresses the importance of mindfulness meditation. She introduces techniques like the 'find your flashlight practice' to enhance emotional resilience and leadership. Jha emphasizes leveraging neuroscience for better mental clarity and suggests adaptability in both personal and professional realms.

Marco Bertini, a marketing professor at Esade Business School and visiting professor at Harvard, shares insights on the pitfalls of pricing algorithms. He warns that frequent price changes can damage brand perception and the customer relationship. Bertini emphasizes the importance of combining AI with an understanding of human psychology. He suggests implementing guardrails and improving communication to mitigate risks. His discussion sheds light on balancing dynamic pricing with customer trust while navigating the complexities of modern monetization strategies.

Azeem Azhar, an entrepreneur and investor, dives into the whirlwind of technological advancement and its societal impacts. He highlights the stark divide between digital haves and have-nots, urging for better regulatory frameworks. The discussion covers the shift in income distribution, the need for adaptability in business practices, and lessons from global models like Denmark's FlexSecurity. Azhar advocates for transparency and responsible governance, emphasizing that technology should benefit society as a whole.