The Corporate Shadow

After a long hiatus, Dr. Ryan Giffen is back with a topic that every leader, supervisor, and manager needs to master: how to handle difficult conversations before they become disciplinary problems. In this episode, Dr. Giffen breaks down the differences between coaching, counseling, and progressive discipline—and explains why the best leaders don't wait until they're frustrated to address performa...

In this insightful episode of The Corporate Shadow, Dr. Ryan Giffen explores the complexities of navigating political conversations in the workplace, a topic that's more relevant than ever in today’s diverse and divided landscape. From fostering inclusivity to maintaining professionalism, Dr. Giffen shares actionable strategies for both employers and employees. Learn how to set respectful boundari...

This episode is not just timely but fundamental in building forward-thinking companies. We're talking about inclusive leadership. Let’s take a deep dive into the significance of inclusive leadership in the modern workplace as we explore the multifaceted benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful organization. For leaders and employees to function harmoniously, it is crucial to bridge the communication gap that often exists between them. An understanding and appreciation of the art of effective communication can significantly enhance the efficiency, creativity, and morale within a workplace. So join me as I provide 7 simple ways...

Conflict is like a constant companion in the realm of human interaction, and it's never more apparent than in the bustling corridors of our workplaces. It's a natural consequence of diverse perspectives, personalities, and ideas converging under one roof. But here's the catch: conflict, if handled effectively, can actually be a catalyst for growth, innovation, and stronger relationships. However,...

In this episode of "The Corporate Shadow," host Dr. Ryan Giffen, a professor and people operations expert, discusses the critical theme of building trust within a work environment through transparency, accountability, and respect. Dr. Giffen highlights that trust serves as the foundation of strong workplace relationships and delves into the key elements for cultivating this culture.

Today we're diving into a crucial topic that's shaping the way we work today: Strengthening manager-employee relationships in the workplace.

If you have been laid off from your job, it can be a scary and stressful experience. It’s important to remember that there are steps you can take to get back on track and start working again. Here are some of the things I recommend doing after being laid off: -Reach out for help. Don’t hesitate to lean on your network of family, friends, former colleagues, or even potential employers for advice an...

If you're in a job that you're not enjoying, seeking a new opportunity can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach and preparation, you can find yourself happily employed sooner than you think! Here are some of my tips to consider when looking for a new job while still employed: 1. Think strategically about interview timing: Decide when it's best to interview for another position, such as a...

As a leader, staying on top of talent acquisition and retention is essential to ensure that your workforce is motivated and productive. Maintaining morale is one of the most critical aspects of successful talent management. Unfortunately, many leaders see engagement as a one-time effort instead of an ongoing process, leading to a workforce that isn't motivated or productive. To avoid this pitfall...

The labor shortage is only going to get worse, driving business decision-making in the years to come. Employers are struggling to find qualified employees, which will only continue as the population ages and more jobs are automated. To attract and retain top talent, businesses must focus on offering competitive wages and creating a positive work environment. Technology can help bridge the gap by a...

When it comes to having tough conversations with co-workers, it’s important to remember a few key things. First, be clear about what you want to say. Avoid dancing around the truth, as Brene Brown says, because it’s unkind. Second, make sure you’re speaking to the other person in a way that they will understand. Be respectful and try to see things from their perspective. Finally, be open to hearin...

Layoffs continue to be front and center, thanks primarily to the shadow of a potential recession. Layoffs can often seem appealing for companies looking to reorganize or cut costs. However, without careful consideration, layoffs may do more harm than good.  There is evidence that a lack of leadership during periods of reorganization can increase employee dissatisfaction and turnover in the long ru...

The Great Resignation is favorable for both employees and employers. This episode explores the most common reasons employees resign from their positions and how the Great Resignation empowers both employees and employers.   About Dr. Ryan Giffen:   With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operat...

Employers screen candidates to discover whether a job applicant could jeopardize what they stand for, their reputation, and workplace safety. The same should apply to job seekers. Screening your future employer will give you the necessary knowledge and understanding of the company’s needs, potential, and weaknesses. Thus, helping you make the right decision to be part of the right organizational c...

Feeling unhappy with your work can decrease your motivation, productivity, and enthusiasm. You might think you are unable to do anything about how you feel at work, but there are things you could do to increase your workplace happiness and reinforce the sense of meaning.   In this episode, you’ll learn: -What makes people happy at work -5 things you can do to be happier work  About Dr. Ryan Giffe...

It’s no surprise that  43 percent  of companies want to increase the talent learning ecosystem, focusing on  upskilling or reskilling . However, employees should also learn how to make the most of career opportunities and advance in the workplace.  In this episode, you’ll learn: What you can do to speed up your professional development. How to leverage growth and learning oppor...

85 percent of employees experience high levels of burnout, and 41 percent report a decline in work-life balance. An overwhelming number of employees reports that companies are pushing them to their limits, requiring availability beyond work hours . Thus, causing concern for complete worker burnout. In the previous episode, we discussed how you can deal with work overload and restore work-life bala...

Overworked employees have more tasks and responsibilities than they can handle or their job role allows. They either feel intrinsic pressure to go the extra mile due to a competitive workplace atmosphere, or their managers impose these expectations on them. So, how do you deal with work overload and restore work-life balance?  Here are 4 tips on how to deal with work overload.  In the next episode...

How many companies have efficient Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (DI&E) policies in place that make a long-lasting difference across all levels? – That mostly depends on the size of an organization.  For instance, 60 percent of businesses with under 50 employees have no diversity initiatives at all. On the other side, 55 percent of companies with between 5000 and 10,000 hires have structured...

In 2020, the world struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic, which the majority finds worse than the 2008 Global Recession. Its aftermaths caused severe problems for the healthcare and financial sector, but they also awoke deep-seated societal issues.  The novel coronavirus disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minorities as they have higher hospitalization rates than non-Hispanic white individ...

Is there anything more nerve-racking than preparing to ask for a raise? You have been working diligently, sacrificing holidays and vacations, and going the extra mile for the employer. They should have noticed your dedication by now, but it doesn’t seem you’ll hear the long-awaited news anytime soon. Finally, you decided. It is time to be brave and voice that question that makes you uncomfortable,...

  Interviewing for your dream job can be one of the most nerve-racking times in anyone’s life. You can try so hard to nail the interview, but it’s also important to know that there is such a thing as over-preparing. This situation is all too common: you spend countless hours polishing your resume to make it look perfect, only to bomb the interview. You might stumble over your words or become so ne...

Interviewing for your dream job can be one of the most nerve-racking times in anyone’s life. You can try so hard to nail the interview, but it’s also important to know that there is such a thing as over-preparing. This situation is all too common: you spend countless hours polishing your resume to make it look perfect, only to bomb the interview. You might stumble over your words or become so nerv...

Interviewing for your dream job can be one of the most nerve-racking times in anyone’s life. You can try so hard to nail the interview, but it’s also important to know that there is such a thing as over-preparing. This situation is all too common: you spend countless hours polishing your resume to make it look perfect, only to bomb the interview. You might stumble over your words or become so nerv...