The HCL Review Podcast

Proving Your Worth: Demonstrating Your Leadership Potential for a New Role, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: The article provides a comprehensive guide on how to effectively demonstrate one's suitability and potential for a new leadership position within an organization. It outlines key strategies, including thoroughly researching the role to understand the core responsibilities and qualifications, highlighting one's relevant experience and quantifiable accomplishments, networking internally to gain exposure and visibility, actively seeking out developmental opportunities to expand skills, and proactively requesting constructive feedback from supervisors and colleagues. The article also includes an industry example illustrating how one employee, Maria, leveraged these tactics to successfully position herself for and secure a promotion to a director-level role. The article emphasizes that a focused, results-oriented approach to self-promotion is crucial for proving readiness and potential for greater leadership challenges.

Workplace Habits of the Happiest Employees, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: The article examines key research on workplace habits and practices that contribute to employee happiness and well-being. It outlines several core factors strongly correlated with job satisfaction, including social support from colleagues, feeling a sense of purpose and meaning in one's work, autonomy and control over work processes, opportunities for growth and development, and recognition for good work. The article then delves into specific habits demonstrated by exceptionally happy employees, such as prioritizing work-life balance, investing in social connections with coworkers, regularly expressing gratitude, practicing self-care, and finding meaning and purpose in their roles. The article concludes by providing recommendations for organizational leaders on how to cultivate these happiness-enhancing habits and conditions to foster engaged, productive, and thriving workforces.

An Era of Eroding Trust: Facing the Organizational Trust Crisis, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: The article examines the dramatic erosion of trust between employers and employees in recent decades, driven by factors such as job insecurity, organizational restructuring, and a focus on profits over people. It reviews research demonstrating the critical importance of trust for individual and organizational success, while highlighting how fragile trust can be. The article outlines the key dimensions of the current trust crisis, including low employee trust in leadership, concerns over job security, and a lack of voice and input. Finally, it presents strategic approaches leaders can employ to rebuild trust in a sustainable manner, such as fostering transparency, psychological safety, fairness, and a culture of mutual care and loyalty. The article contends that regaining lost trust represents an urgent challenge but also an opportunity to catalyze innovation, cooperation, and resilience within organizations.

The Challenge of Transitioning From a Long-Term Job to Starting Something New, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: The article explores the research on what motivates individuals to make career transitions from long-term, stable jobs to starting something new, as well as the psychological challenges involved and practical strategies for managing the risks and uncertainties. It discusses common push and pull factors like job burnout and the desire for more autonomy and fulfillment. The article then delves into the psychological challenges of transition, including loss of structure and evolving identity, and suggests ways to counter these, such as grieving the "old self" and establishing new routines. It emphasizes the importance of thorough planning around market research, financial projections, and contingencies to overcome uncertainty, as well as cultivating resilience. The article also examines industry-specific considerations for those transitioning from healthcare, law, or education into new ventures. Overall, it provides a comprehensive look at navigating the complex process of shifting from a long-term role to an entrepreneurial or new career path.

Are You Being Influenced or Manipulated? by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: The article explores the distinction between ethical influence and unethical manipulation within organizational leadership. It defines influence as the process of affecting others through trust-based means like persuasion and inspiration, while manipulation involves controlling and deceiving people to serve the manipulator's self-interest. The article outlines several signs of manipulation, including withholding information, excessive pressure, appealing to self-interest over shared values, and exploiting personal vulnerabilities. It then provides guidance for addressing manipulation, such as building awareness, facilitating open feedback, distributing decision-making authority, cultivating shared purpose, and offering support and accountability systems. The article uses a case study of a tech startup to illustrate how these principles can be applied in practice to transform a toxic, manipulative culture into a collaborative, high-trust environment focused on the organization's mission.

Managing Microaggressions: Strategies for Responding to Subtle Bias in the Workplace, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This article examines the issue of microaggressions in increasingly diverse workplaces, which refer to subtle verbal, nonverbal, and environmental slights that communicate negative messages about a person's marginalized identity. Research shows that the cumulative effect of microaggressions can negatively impact minorities' mental health, job satisfaction, and sense of belonging. The article outlines strategies for both individuals and organizations to address microaggressions. Individual approaches include educating respectfully, debriefing privately, seeking support from allies, and prioritizing mental wellness. Organizational strategies involve implementing implicit bias and microaggression training, clear anti-discrimination policies, accountability structures, leadership commitment to inclusion, and safe spaces for marginalized groups. By taking these steps, the article argues, companies can foster truly inclusive work cultures where diverse identities feel respected and able to thrive.

The Right Team for Innovation: Ensuring Success Through Effective Composition and Development, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: The article explores the research behind designing effective innovation teams and provides practical guidance for leaders to leverage team composition and continuous learning to maximize the success of organizational change initiatives. It highlights key factors such as diversity of perspectives, complementary skill sets, psychological safety, autonomy, strategic alignment, and champion support as crucial characteristics of high-performing innovation teams. The paper then outlines specific approaches for structuring innovation teams, including conducting skills inventories, fostering cross-functional integration, balancing experience and fresh perspectives, and empowering teams with autonomy. Additionally, the article discusses the importance of developing a culture of continuous learning through experiential opportunities, challenging established mindsets, facilitating knowledge sharing, and promoting adaptive leadership skills. The principles are applied across various industry contexts to illustrate their nuanced implications. Overall, the article underscores the deliberate focus required to assemble and sustain innovation-oriented teams that can thrive against a dynamic business landscape.

Friday Afternoon Productivity: Capitalizing on the End of the Workweek to Plan for Success

Abstract: The article explores the benefits of utilizing Friday afternoons as a strategic planning period to maximize productivity and prepare for the week ahead. Research shows that the reduced cognitive load at the end of the workweek allows for more reflective and forward-thinking perspectives. Taking time to review accomplishments, assess priorities, and outline plans supports knowledge-building and provides a short mental break that boosts subsequent performance. The article provides practical guidance for organizations to implement structured Friday planning sessions, including communicating upcoming focuses, setting reminders, and role modeling the behavior. Examples from leading technology and professional services firms demonstrate how the practice can pay dividends in productivity, clarity, and continued progress for both employees and the broader organization.
 

Four Attributes of Great Leadership: Confidence, Connection, Commitment, and Courage, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: This paper explores four key attributes that define great organizational leaders: confidence, connection, commitment, and courage. Academic research and practical examples demonstrate how these qualities of character are equally significant for leadership effectiveness as technical skills and strategic abilities. Confident leaders believe in their vision and inspire optimism, while connected leaders build trust and motivation through strong relationships. Committed leaders prioritize organizational and individual development over self-interest, while courageous leaders persevere through challenges with integrity. Cultivating these four attributes provides a critical foundation for maximizing positive influence and impact as a leader, regardless of industry or context. The research and application show that developing confidence, connection, commitment, and courage is vital for any aspiring or current leader aiming to drive success.

Overcoming Impostor Phenomenon: My Journey to Confront Self-Doubt in the Workplace, by Jonathan H. Westover PhD

Abstract: Despite years of professional success, the author often struggled with feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy at work, a phenomenon commonly known as "impostor syndrome." Even after receiving positive feedback and achieving major accomplishments, the author grappled with an internal voice questioning their true competence. This case study outlines the author's journey to confront these debilitating impostor feelings through self-awareness, cognitive restructuring techniques, and cultivating a supportive network. By identifying the underlying irrational thought patterns, challenging them with evidence-based self-talk, and leveraging relationships for encouragement, the author was able to overcome self-doubt and blossom into a more confident, effective leader. The article provides a roadmap for other professionals, especially women in male-dominated fields, to recognize and address impostor phenomenon in order to reach their full potential.