The HCL Review Podcast

Abstract: This research brief examines the potential impacts of implementing a hybrid work model on key employee measures like work-life balance, job satisfaction, and overall wellbeing. Through a review and synthesis of current scholarly literature, it explores how hybrid arrangements that allow both remote and in-office work have the ability to positively influence these important aspects of emp...

Abstract: This article examines strategies for building and sustaining confidence in the workplace. It defines workplace confidence as an individual's inner belief in their ability to competently achieve work goals while feeling assured, motivated, and resilient. On an individual level, confidence is developed through focusing on strengths, setting goals, positive self-talk, visualization, reframi...

Abstract: This article examines how negatively-biased employees, or "downers", can undermine organizational motivation, productivity and long-term survival if left unaddressed. Drawing from over a decade of consulting and research experience, the author analyzes literature establishing the problematic effects of negativity at the individual, team and organizational levels. A framework is then prov...

Abstract: This article discusses how organizations can leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to support rather than hinder change management efforts amid technological transformation. It first establishes a research foundation on common sources of resistance to change, such as job insecurity, lack of understanding, and lack of involvement. The article then presents examples of how AI can augment t...

Abstract: This article explores how organizations can establish a culture of continuous learning to help unlock their full potential. The article begins by defining continuous learning and outlining its benefits at both the individual and organizational levels based on research. It then discusses essential components for creating a true continuous learning environment, including leadership support...

Abstract: This article discusses effective strategies for following up with contacts who have not responded to initial requests or messages. It begins by reviewing psychological research on factors that can influence response times, such as personality traits, cultural norms, and procrastination. It then provides guidelines for optimal timing of follow-ups based on priority level and contact type....

Abstract: This article explores practical strategies for managers and executives to increase trust and loyalty in employee relationships. The article outlines how trust is built over time through consistency, integrity, and care. Specific guidance is provided around communicating expectations, pay transparency, work-life balance, career development, culture, and recognition. Fulfilling implicit an...

Abstract: This article discusses research-backed strategies from positive psychology that individuals can utilize to increase the likelihood of having more positive and productive workdays. It outlines how adopting an optimistic explanatory style when facing challenges, properly managing energy levels in addition to time, cultivating quality relationships with colleagues, and prioritizing self-car...

Abstract: This article discusses how seemingly small, everyday social habits and interactions can significantly impact workplace relationships and organizational effectiveness. It explores research on relationship-building behaviors like making eye contact, smiling, saying thank you, asking questions, providing feedback, listening without judgment, self-disclosure, and celebrating wins together. T...

Abstract: This article examines the problem of underemployment among recent college graduates and proposes strategies for organizations and institutions of higher education to work individually and collaboratively to address this issue. According to recent data, over 55% of 2020 graduates were underemployed within six months due to factors like economic disruption from the pandemic, skills mismatc...

Abstract: This article discusses best practices for respectfully declining premature promotions into management roles as a consultant or academic, in order to avoid sabotaging one's career or damaging relationships. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection to understand one's skills and interests before committing, and encourages politely but firmly communicating priorities and boundaries....

Abstract: This article examines the phenomenon of workplace gaslighting and provides recommendations for coping with or preventing this harmful form of psychological manipulation. Gaslighting is defined as a systematic attempt to undermine and confuse another person to gain power or control over them. It goes beyond normal feedback by intentionally aiming to diminish someone's confidence in their...

Abstract: This article discusses the potential risks that can emerge when organizations overly on data-driven decision making by focusing excessively on quantitative analysis and metrics to the exclusion of important qualitative human factors. The article explores common pitfalls such as leaders losing sight of broader strategic perspectives and higher-level business drivers when immersed in granu...

Abstract: This article examines how research supports the use of storytelling as an impactful organizational leadership tool. Several studies have found that storytelling enhances employee engagement, commitment, and performance when leaders skillfully use narratives to communicate vision, values, and appreciation. On a neurological level, stories stimulate emotional centers in the brain more than...

Abstract: This article provides advice for new employees on how to effectively manage their onboarding process to set themselves up for long-term success. It outlines common pitfalls in haphazard onboarding that can lead over half of employees to leave within six months. However, the article argues employees can take control of their onboarding journey from day one through proactively engaging in...

Abstract: This article explores seven habits shown through research to distinguish highly productive individuals from average performers. Each habit is grounded in academic literature and illustrated with real-world industry examples. The habits include planning the next day's schedule in advance to be proactive rather than reactive. Minimizing distractions like notifications to focus deeply on pr...

Abstract: This article argues that organizations should move away from primarily hiring for "culture fit" and instead focus on acquiring a diversity of talent. The explores how overemphasizing cultural similarity in hiring can undermine efforts to build inclusive workplaces. Citing research, the article posits that prioritizing culture fit disproportionately excludes women and minorities, and resu...

Abstract: This article discusses how organizations can move beyond a toxic "blame culture" and instead foster an "accountability culture" where teams share responsibility for both successes and failures. It explains how attribution biases and a lack of psychological safety enable defensive behaviors in blame cultures. Strategies are provided for leaders to establish accountability, including distr...

Abstract: This article explores why talented individuals frequently fail to fully utilize their innate strengths in their work despite years spent developing skills and abilities. Several reasons for strengths underutilization are examined based on research evidence. A key factor is the paradox between skills, which can be expanded through training and experience, versus immutable strengths that e...

Abstract: In today's disruptive business environment where entire job categories are emerging and transforming rapidly, traditional career path models centered on predefined vertical progression no longer adequately equip organizations with the workforce mobility and strategic resilience needed to dynamically deploy talent as work evolves. This article explores how progressive companies like globa...

Abstract: This article provides strategies for partners to help their spouse effectively cope with unrelenting work stress. It begins by outlining common sources and symptoms of occupational stress, such as overwhelming job demands, limited resources, and impacts to physical and mental health. Key steps are then discussed, including actively listening without judgment to validate a spouse's experi...

Abstract: This article discusses strategies for effectively speaking up at work when issues arise. It explores the benefits of speaking up for both individuals and organizations based on research, but also examines common barriers like fear of retaliation that deter such discourse. To overcome these barriers, the article proposes approaches backed by evidence, such as cultivating a psychologically...

Abstract: This article discusses how leaders can continuously improve their skills and effectiveness through habit hacking. It explores how reframing mindsets, building supportive systems, and committing to small daily optimizations can strengthen areas of weakness over time. Specifically, the article recommends practicing self-compassion and adopting a growth mindset. It also suggests implementin...

Abstract: This article discusses how organizational leaders can strategically transform their company culture to gain a sustainable competitive advantage. The article argues that culture is a key determinant of change success and financial performance, but is also difficult to recognize and influence. The article outlines several foundational principles for cultural transformation, including devel...

Abstract: This article examines organizational perspectives on bridging leadership development gaps in three key areas: change management, talent development, and diversity/inclusion. Executive surveys find that while disruptive change preparedness is a top priority, leadership programs often fail to adequately develop adaptability. To close this gap, companies emphasize developing agility, experi...