We know that kind workplaces are more successful, but how do we create a kind culture? Stanford psychologist Jamil Zaki has explored a fascinating concept he calls “positive conformity.” Through his research, he discovered that “participants who believed others were more generous became more generous themselves.” Simply put, kindness is contagious — it can ripple… Continue reading Kindness is good for workplaces – how can we make it happen?
As Organisational Psychologists working across New Zealand, it’s not uncommon for us to see strategic people initiatives and organisational development take a back seat. And it’s understandable—when you get focused on day-to-day making time to take that helicopter view to review your people strategy, policies and processes can easily slip down the list of priorities.… Continue reading Why Conducting an HR Audit is a Smart Move
Great leaders utilise stories to help their audiences connect to their message. A great story is not just heard; it’s felt. Stories can persuade, convince, and convert. For some guidance when it comes to spinning a tale, Will Storrs, journalist and author of A Story is a Deal, shares four storytelling techniques to move people to… Continue reading The Science of Story Telling: An Essential Leadership Skill
The road to less arguing and better problem solving starts with asking one simple question… Have you ever tried to change the mind of someone you disagree with? Good luck! And yet, psychologists say that remembering one simple question is the first step on the road to less hostility and more productive dialogue. Finding common… Continue reading Want to change a mind? Ask this question
When it comes to staying healthy, science shows that social connection is as important as diet and exercise… The Harvard Study of Adult Development has been minutely tracking the lives of some 724 original participants (and some of their descendants) since 1938. One of its biggest takeaways is that the greatest predictor of health and… Continue reading How social fitness can save your life
Framing things positively has enormous advantages… and there is one negative word you should consider banishing for good… If you ask someone at Disney what time the park closes, they don’t exactly tell you. What they say is that “the park is open until 10 PM.” This is an example of what Debra Jasper, CEO… Continue reading The one word you should never use
