When you ask someone to do something, be sure to include the statement that they are free to choose to do it or not. Adding this phrase doubles the likelihood they will do it. A detailed analysis of more than 22K subjects in 42 separate psychology studies demonstrates this startling result. The simple act of…
The science of subtle signals suggests what you say is less important than how you say it. Mark Buchanan is a theoretical physicist who writes about how physics can be used to understand biology, economics, psychology and other social sciences. His book, “The Social Atom: Why the Rich Get Richer, Cheaters Get Caught and Your…
As a frequent traveler, I sometimes find myself so time-shifted I can’t sleep even though it’s late at night. During a recent episode, I wondered whether lying in bed with my eyes closed had the same benefits as actual sleep. Doesn’t my brain and body still get some rest? The answer isn’t clear cut. Brian Fung asks exactly this question…
On weekends I enjoy long hikes in the hills around my house. It relaxes me after the work week and my mind wanders to new ideas. Of course, it’s also good for my health. Mostly. Lately I’ve noticed a disturbing trend. I often go to lunch with my hiking companions after a few hours on the trail…
With the U.S presidential election imminent, not surprisingly politics are dominating everyone’s conversations. Last week I had an on-going discussion with a work colleague on whether brands have political connotations. We decided to try to figure out the politics of brand. The conversation started with my colleague’s observation about cars in our office parking lot: more…
In research conducted by Accountemps, 150 senior executives from the nation’s 1000 largest companies were asked, “What is the most annoying or overused phrase or buzzword in the workplace today?” Their responses included the following: Leverage Reach out It is what it is Viral Game changer Disconnect Value-add Circle back Socialize Interface Cutting edge While…