Conversations on Organizational Excellence

Abstract: This article explores the psychological drivers underlying micromanagement behaviors in organizational leaders. Drawing from scholarly literature in management, leadership, and psychology, common hidden beliefs that can fuel micromanagement are identified, including needs for certainty, perfectionism, external locus of control tendencies, and distrust or control issues. The article delin...

Abstract: Empathy is an essential yet often overlooked component of successful leadership. This article explores the importance of empathy - defined as understanding another's perspective and feelings - for key leadership functions through a review of recent studies and insights from consulting experience. It examines how empathy strengthens relationships, increases engagement, and fosters innovat...

Abstract: This article examines how individuals and organizations can proactively develop skills that research indicates will remain difficult to automate as artificial intelligence and new technologies continue to transform the future of work. Through a review of comprehensive skills studies by McKinsey Global Institute, World Economic Forum, and OECD, core human capabilities like complex problem...

Abstract: This article explores the topic of self-awareness, an important yet often misunderstood concept, through a conceptual and practical lens. After defining self-awareness as having an accurate perception of one's abilities, characteristics and behaviors, the article examines self-awareness development as occurring along a continuum from subjective to constructively-developmental understandi...

Abstract: As more teams conduct their work remotely, effective collaboration across distances has become increasingly important. However, remote work also introduces unique challenges to teamwork and productivity that require strategic solutions. This practitioner-oriented brief provides research-backed guidance and examples for overcoming barriers to remote collaboration. Drawing from literature...

Abstract: As artificial intelligence transforms work through automation, a "wellbeing paradox" may emerge if its social and psychological impacts are not consciously managed. This practitioner-focused research brief explores the tensions between AI's productivity gains and potential threats to human thriving. Through a review of recent studies at the intersection of technology, jobs and wellbeing,...

Abstract: As artificial intelligence transforms work through automation, a "wellbeing paradox" may emerge if its social and psychological impacts are not consciously managed. This practitioner-focused research brief explores the tensions between AI's productivity gains and potential threats to human thriving. Through a review of recent studies at the intersection of technology, jobs and wellbeing,...

Abstract: This practitioner research brief examines the under-explored issue of under-management in organizations and its implications for employee and organizational performance. Under-management is defined as a hands-off, laissez faire approach to management where leaders provide very low levels of oversight, guidance and support to direct reports. Drawing from the academic literature as well as...

Abstract: This practitioner research brief examines the under-explored issue of under-management in organizations and its implications for employee and organizational performance. Under-management is defined as a hands-off, laissez faire approach to management where leaders provide very low levels of oversight, guidance and support to direct reports. Drawing from the academic literature as well as...

Abstract: This  research brief examines strategies for leaders to more effectively manage conflict and enhance their positive influence. It explores how conflict, if left unresolved, can significantly undermine individual and organizational performance. The brief outlines a framework combining research insights with practical approaches for reducing the costs of conflict. Key recommendations inclu...

Abstract: This  research brief examines strategies for leaders to more effectively manage conflict and enhance their positive influence. It explores how conflict, if left unresolved, can significantly undermine individual and organizational performance. The brief outlines a framework combining research insights with practical approaches for reducing the costs of conflict. Key recommendations inclu...

Abstract: This research brief challenges the common assumption that having employees in the office together five days a week is essential for building and maintaining a strong organizational culture. Through a review and synthesis of relevant scholarly literature from fields such as management, psychology, and sociology, the article finds little empirical evidence supporting the notion that co-loc...

Abstract: This research brief challenges the common assumption that having employees in the office together five days a week is essential for building and maintaining a strong organizational culture. Through a review and synthesis of relevant scholarly literature from fields such as management, psychology, and sociology, the article finds little empirical evidence supporting the notion that co-loc...

Abstract: This article explores how flattened, team-oriented organizational structures aimed at boosting flexibility, collaboration, and innovation may unintentionally make it harder for women to navigate career opportunities and progression. Through a review of relevant academic literature, the article examines research showing that flattened hierarchies tend to de-emphasize clear career ladders,...

Abstract: This article examines how evidence-based neuroscience principles can be leveraged to develop learning agility in organizational leaders. Learning agility—the ability to quickly adapt, learn from experience, and apply new knowledge in changing situations—has become a crucial leadership capability in volatile business environments. Drawing on recent neuroscience research, this paper identi...

Abstract: This article explores how applying Maslow's classic hierarchy of needs theory to company culture can help optimize employee engagement, retention, and performance. Abraham Maslow's principles of motivation posit that lower-level physiological and safety needs must be reasonably satisfied before individuals strongly pursue higher psychological needs. Translating this to the workplace, the...

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Cindy Cavoto  Cynthia Cavoto is a seasoned productivity coach and business strategist who empowers professionals and entrepreneurs to reclaim control of their time and build systems that support sustainable growth. As the founder of Cavoto Coaching & Consulting, she brings a unique blend of project management, digital marketing, and neur...

Abstract: Changing cultures within organizations has proven very difficult to achieve through top-down mandates and directives alone. However, some companies have succeeded in catalyzing large-scale cultural transformations by taking a different approach - sparking grassroots movements from within. This practitioner research brief examines why movements are more effective than mandates at shifting...

Abstract: This article provides practical strategies for leaders and employees to foster a culture of appreciation in the workplace through thoughtful compliments. While recognition is important for engagement and satisfaction, many find expressing appreciation professionally uncomfortable. The article offers guidelines for sincerely complimenting others with specificity and timeliness so praise f...

Abstract: This research brief aims to provide a nuanced perspective on how the intersection of gender and race impacts employee engagement. Through a review of academic literature, key factors that shape engagement for women and employees of color are explored. While drivers like meaningful work and support apply broadly, gender and racial minority employees often face additional barriers such as...

Abstract: This article explores with research-backed strategies for maintaining balance and preventing burnout when feeling overwhelmed by high workload demands. The article begins by defining job overload and identifying common warning signs. It explores how to gain control over workload, expectations, and self-care through prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, strengthening support systems, an...

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Denise Brown about her book, THE FAIRY GOD DOCTOR’S GUIDE TO A GOOD LIFE: A Prescription For The Working Woman. Denise Brown, MD, has over three decades of experience as a physician, CEO, and Chief Strategy Officer. She is a transformation leader who helps women in business learn how to prioritize and avoid stress and burnout. A thought...

Abstract: This practitioner-focused essay examines the vital role that human resources (HR) professionals play in advocating for and protecting employees, especially in dysfunctional or unhealthy work environments. Drawing from the author's 15 years of experience in organizational consulting and academic research, it outlines the common signs of an unhealthy workplace culture, such as toxic leader...

Abstract: This article explores stress contagion in organizational settings and provides strategies for building resilience against absorbing others' tensions. It begins by outlining the research demonstrating how stress transmits between individuals through unconscious neurological mirroring and limbic system processes. Left unaddressed, this "emotional contagion" allows stresses to spread rapidl...

Abstract: This practitioner-focused essay examines the vital role that human resources (HR) professionals play in advocating for and protecting employees, especially in dysfunctional or unhealthy work environments. Drawing from the author's 15 years of experience in organizational consulting and academic research, it outlines the common signs of an unhealthy workplace culture, such as toxic leader...