The Manager Lab

Why Employees Quit (Part 3) Final

Welcome to the Manager Lab, where we explore the dynamic world of talent management. In this episode, we conclude our review of the Harvard Business Review article, "Why Employees Quit: New Research Points to Some Surprising Answers" by Ethan Bernstein, Michael Horn, and Bob Moesta. We delve into three pivotal strategies that managers can implement to preemptively address the reasons employees consider leaving. Discover how early interviews, shadow job descriptions, and strategic partnerships with HR can transform your approach to employee retention. Tune in to learn how to optimize your talent processes and create meaningful career paths that align with both organizational and individual goals.

Why Employees Quit (Part 2)

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Manager Lab, where we dive into the complexities of talent management and explore innovative strategies to retain top talent. In this episode, we review the Harvard Business Review article "Why Employees Quit," authored by Ethan Bernstein, Michael Horn, and Bob Moesta. Discover the surprising reasons behind employee resignations and learn about the ongoing 'war for talent' that challenges traditional management approaches.
We discuss four primary quests that drive job changes: the desire to escape current unsatisfactory situations, regain control over work-life balance, align work with personal skills and capabilities, and pursue new career opportunities for growth and better compensation.
Join us as we dissect the article's key insights and explore how managers can create fulfilling work experiences by recognizing and addressing the unique needs and ambitions of their employees. Prepare to transform your talent management strategies and unlock your team's potential.

Why Employees Quit (Part 1)

Welcome to the latest episode of the Manager Lab, where we explore the dynamic world of talent management. In this episode, we delve into insights from the Harvard Business Review article "Why Employees Quit," focusing particularly on the "push and pull" dynamics that influence employee decisions to leave or stay within a company.
Discover the key factors that drive employees away, such as lack of respect, feeling undervalued, and experiencing micromanagement. We also discuss the enticements that attract employees elsewhere, emphasizing work-life balance, personal growth opportunities, and alignment with company values.
Join us as we break down these pivotal elements and offer actionable tips to help managers retain their top talent. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue to explore strategies to optimize team performance in the Manager Lab.

IDEAWATCH Reviews from HBR

Join us in this episode of the Manager Lab as we explore the dynamic world of talent management, focusing on key insights from recent research articles. Learn about the critical role of eye contact in building trust and enhancing managerial charisma, the fluctuations in psychological safety for new hires, and the surprising truths about invisibility in virtual meetings. Discover valuable tips on fostering psychological safety and understanding the true passions of introverted and extroverted employees. Delve into strategies that can help retain top talent and drive employee engagement.

Mentorship - Panel Discussion (Part 2)

Welcome to the Manager Lab, a podcast dedicated to exploring the dynamic world of talent management. Join us for insightful discussions and tips to enhance your mentoring practices and help unlock your team's full potential.
In this episode, we continue our exploration of mentorship, discussing the vital expectations for mentees, such as support, guidance, and feedback. We emphasize the importance of mentees taking responsibility for meetings and being well-prepared to gain the most from the mentorship experience.
We share personal experiences on how mentorship has shaped careers in different industries, highlighting valuable lessons learned. Delve into strategies for addressing unique challenges faced by mentees and mentors, especially when balancing management duties with mentoring roles.
Explore the concept of cross-generational mentoring and its benefits in fostering adaptability and innovation. We also address effective mentoring strategies for diverse talent in traditionally homogeneous industries, emphasizing relationship-building and result-oriented approaches.
Whether you aim to be a mentor or mentee, this episode provides valuable insights and encourages meaningful mentoring relationships. Tune in to enrich your talent management skills in the Manager Lab.

Mentorship - Panel Discussion (Part 1)

Welcome to the Manager Lab, where we delve into the dynamic world of talent management. In this episode, we depart from our usual content to explore the realm of mentorship, sharing insights from a recent panel discussion. Discover how to build rapport with mentees through genuine intent, and learn about the various ways to find and become a mentor, whether through organizational channels, social media, or networking events.This episode also examines the differences between formal and informal mentorship programs, and the distinct roles of mentors, sponsors, and advocates in career development. Join us for an engaging conversation on mentorship and stay tuned for the next installment as we continue to unravel more questions from the panel.

6 Common Leadership Styles - And When to Use Them (Part 2)

Welcome to this insightful episode of the Manager Lab, where we continue our exploration of the pivotal Harvard Business Review article, "Leadership That Gets Results" by Daniel Goleman.
In this episode, we dive further into the six essential leadership styles and discuss when and how each can be effectively used to optimize team performance. From coercive to coaching, we explore strengths, challenges, and the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership.
Join us as we analyze real-life applications and strategies to seamlessly adapt your leadership style, building a dynamic and efficient team environment that fosters growth, motivation, and success. Expand your leadership toolbox with us in the Manager Lab.

6 Common Leadership Styles - And When to Use Them (Part 1)

Welcome to the Manager Lab, your go-to source for talent management strategies. In today's episode, we review the Harvard Business Review article "Six Common Leadership Styles and How to Decide Which to Use When" by Rebecca Knight. This article revisits the foundational work of Daniel Goleman on leadership styles, a pivotal framework for understanding effective leadership dynamics.Join us as we explore the first three of Goleman's leadership styles: coercive, authoritative (or visionary), and pace-setting. Dive into the nuances of each style, their impact on team morale, and when to deploy them to navigate complex business environments. Whether you're facing a crisis or steering through change, understanding these styles will enhance your leadership toolkit and drive your team's growth.Stay tuned for the next episode where we'll delve into the remaining styles to complete your leadership repertoire. Let's continue unlocking your team's full potential in the Manager Lab.

Career Progression Interview with ERG ManagerTools

ManagerTools, an ERG with Hinkle Contracting, interviewed me as part of thier monthly series of helping managers do good work.  This episode is much longer than usual, but enjoy hearing about my progression from academia to Big Pharma, to entrepreneurialism, to landing where I am now in Human Resources!  What a journey...

Visibility Matters: How to Showcase Your Team's Achievements

Welcome to the Manager Lab, where we dive into the dynamic world of talent management. In this episode, we review the Harvard Business Review article by Rebecca Knight, "How to Make Your Team's Work More Visible," published in January 2025. The article emphasizes the importance of strategic communication to ensure that your team's great work is seen and appreciated.
We discuss the impact of visibility on team motivation, resource allocation, and retention, and provide seven actionable tips to enhance your team's presence effectively. From understanding individual strengths to promoting collaboration and distributing credit fairly, learn how to advocate for your team without coming across boastful.
Join us in unraveling the art and science of unlocking your team's full potential by ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. Tune in for practical advice on fostering a productive and engaged team.