GRANTED: June 2015 newsletter on work and psychology
June 2015
When people learn I’m an organizational psychologist, they sometimes think I know something about straightening out their closets. This month’s newsletter won’t help with that, but it does cover data about finding fit, preventing procrastination, and tooting your own horn.
1. Guess Who Doesn't Fit In at Work
When companies hire for fit, are they screening for organizational values or just interpersonal chemistry? Lauren Rivera shows how some hiring managers are turning interviews into first dates, and identifies the people most likely to be overlooked when birds of a feather flock together. If we’re not careful, cultural fit can become “a new form of discrimination.”
2. The Mechanics of Preventing Procrastination
Olga Khazan shares the results of a new study with a simple prescription. To make future events seem sooner, think of them in terms of days, not months or years.
3. Humblebragging Doesn't Work
The insincerity of faux humility bugs people even more than the narcissism of bald-faced boasting. Derek Thompson shares the ultimate metahumblebrag: "I can’t even tell when people are complimenting me.”
4. The Secret Power of Introverts
Attention introverts—and those who care about them: Susan Cain has launched a Quiet Revolution community to share insights about how workplaces, schools, and families can leverage the strengths of the quieter half of the population. Connect with people who enjoy interactions that don’t invade their personal space or pierce their eardrums.
5. The Weird Potency of Self-Esteem
Self-esteem doesn’t breed success, so why do we need it? A recent study points to a surprising reason: it keeps our anxiety in check.
6. The Benefits of Having a Working Mother
When mothers hold jobs, their children go on to champion greater equality. Claire Cain Miller shares new evidence that daughters earn more—and sons are more involved in childcare and housework. See, Mom—I knew you shouldn’t feel guilty about going back to work.
7. You Can’t Be Brave Without Fear
Mellody Hobson gives a stirring commencement speech. “If you focus on the work, success will come. Focus on the success and nothing will come.”
8. How to Seem Smart In Meetings Without Really Trying
Ten foolproof tips from cartoonist Sarah Cooper, including #5: "Repeat the last thing the engineer said, but very very slowly."
9. Sheryl Sandberg's Tribute
A courageous, inspiring post on love, grief, and resilience. Let’s all kick the $#!% out of Option B.
I'll check in again next month—er, in about 30 days.
Cheers,
Adam
Adam Grant, Ph.D.
Wharton professor and author of GIVE AND TAKE