Eat Sleep Work Repeat - better workplace culture

In a thought-provoking discussion, Professor Alex Haslam, a leading expert in social identity and leadership, explores how identity shapes effective leadership. He introduces the CARE model—Create, Advance, Represent, and Embed—which emphasizes the importance of group identity. Alex highlights how effective leaders should balance current and future group identities, and he argues that resonant leadership fosters team performance and cohesion. He also discusses the impact of isolation on group dynamics post-pandemic and advocates for community-driven social connections.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Professor Alex Haslam, a leading figure in social and organizational psychology, explores the importance of group identity. He argues that our social connections are vital for resilience and well-being, often outweighing individual achievements. Delving into the risks of individualism, he highlights how it can harm teamwork and motivation. Haslam emphasizes that our personal selves are deeply intertwined with our collective identities, shaping not just how we interact but also how we thrive in various environments, including remote work.

Join NHS psychiatrist Simon Gilbody, a mental health expert from the University of York, as he delves into the pressing issue of workplace loneliness. He reveals how chronic loneliness differs from solitude and its wide-ranging effects on physical and mental health. Discover the surprising impact of workplace culture on social connections, the role of rumination, and practical strategies to rebuild community at work. Simon emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments and offers insights on how leaders can maintain connections.

This sponsored episode is brought to you by Deliveroo for WorkSpencer Walker is the global director of Deliveroo for Work.The podcast has returned several times to the idea of food as a cultural trigger, something that catalyses connection and allows cohesion. We explore that idea further this week with Spencer Walker who runs Deliveroo For Work the workplace service provided by the delivery firm. The Deliveroo Feeding Employee Engagement ReportI mention a book by Robin Dunbar and Samantha Rockey, it's this: The Social Brain - Tracey Camilleri, Samantha Rockey, Robin Dunbar. They talk about giving curry to bond teams (because the sharing plates require people to pass them around). Hear them talking about it here.Deliveroo for WorkThe Deliveroo Feeding Employee Engagement ReportMore about food, rituals and culture Sign up to the Make Work Better newsletter or check out the best ever episodes at the website.Eat Sleep Work Repeat is made and hosted by Bruce Daisley. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this engaging conversation, Nick Shackleton-Jones, a learning and leadership consultant known for his clever TikTok rants, dives into the quirky idea that middle-aged men push for return-to-office mandates to reclaim identities lost at home. He discusses the identity-driven nature of workplace norms and how outdated management styles disempower employees. Nick also sheds light on the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in corporate settings, including the fatigue of endless meetings and the nuances of masking. His insights are thought-provoking and entertaining!

Colin Fisher, a Professor of Organizations and Innovation at UCL, guides us through the dynamics of effective teamwork. He emphasizes the transformative power of small, interdependent teams and demonstrates how oversized groups can hinder performance. Discover practical strategies to revitalize teams through better structures and shared leadership. Colin advocates for the importance of collective goals and routine reviews, urging managers to focus on the group's synergy instead of individual contributions for enhanced workplace success.

Susan Carruth, a partner at 3XN renowned for her innovative workspace designs, and Mike Wiseman, Head of Campuses at British Land, discuss the evolution of office environments. They highlight how behavioral psychology influences design to enhance employee well-being and productivity. The conversation delves into the importance of neurodiversity and flexible spaces that cater to various needs. They also touch on the changing landscape of workplace demand, driven by generational values and the shift towards quality office environments post-pandemic.

Nick McClelland, CEO of Byrne Dean and expert in workplace dynamics, delves into how the pandemic has reshaped personality traits, particularly among younger workers. He discusses the declines in conscientiousness, agreeableness, and extraversion and their implications for employee engagement. The conversation highlights the increasing conflicts in workplaces fueled by external tensions and the importance of respectful communication. McClelland also examines the challenges of maintaining connections in a hybrid work environment dominated by digital communication.

Dan Jackson, a former Aussie Rules footballer and current General Manager at Adelaide Football Club, dives into the cultural challenges faced in professional sports. He discusses Ange Postecoglou's coaching journey and questions if he was unfairly treated in the English Premier League. The conversation reveals the need for genuine relationships and stability in team environments, advocating for a more relational leadership approach. Jackson emphasizes how sports culture parallels business, highlighting the importance of psychological safety and authentic connections for high-performance teams.

In this conversation, Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy Group, shares insights on fostering a vibrant workplace culture without rigid values. He emphasizes the critical roles of trust and autonomy in empowering teams, which propel the company’s rapid growth. Jackson challenges common corporate norms, showcasing how a decentralized decision-making process enhances customer relations. He also discusses the evolution of team dynamics, prioritizing clear communication, and adapting to change, all while keeping the focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences.