HBR IdeaCast

Heidi Grant, a motivational psychologist and author, dives into the behaviors that set high achievers apart. She emphasizes the importance of adopting a growth mindset and setting goals over relying solely on talent. Grant discusses willpower as a skill that can be developed, offering strategies to build resilience. She warns against the pitfalls of unrealistic optimism, advocating for a realistic approach to overcoming challenges. Her insights provide actionable strategies for both personal and professional success.

Zeynep Ton, a professor at MIT Sloan and expert on good job strategies, delves into the pressing issues of the labor market. She highlights the urgent need for companies to create 'good jobs' to attract talent amidst a labor shortage. Ton argues for better pay, predictability, and flexibility, especially for essential workers facing poor conditions. She emphasizes treating labor costs as investments, using Costco as a model for success, and calls for systemic changes to enhance job quality and employee satisfaction for overall business success.

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.