Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
Poll after poll has confirmed that an astonishing number of workers are disengaged from their work. Why is this happening? And how can we fix the problem?
In this bold, enlightening book, social psychologist and professor Daniel M. Cable takes leaders into the minds of workers and reveals the surprising secret to restoring their zest for work.
Disengagement isn't a motivational problem, it's a biological one. Humans aren't built for routine and repetition. We're designed to crave exploration, experimentation, and learning--in fact, there's a part of our brains, which scientists have coined the seeking system, that rewards us for taking part in these activities. But the way organizations are run prevents many of us from following our innate impulses. As a result, we shut down.
Things need to change. More than ever before, employee creativity and engagement are needed to win. Fortunately, it won't take an extensive overhaul of your organizational culture to get started. With small nudges, you can personally help people reach their fullest potential.
Alive at Work reveals:
- How to encourage people to bring their best selves to work and use their greatest strengths to help your organization flourish
- How to build creative environments that motivate people to share ideas, work smarter, and embrace change
- How to enhance people's connection to their work and your customers
- How to create personalized experiences that help people feel a deeper sense of purpose
Filled with fascinating stories from the author's extensive research, Alive at Work is the inspirational guide that you need to tap into the passion, creativity, and purpose fizzing beneath the surface of every person who falls under your leadership.
Synopsis
Social psychologist Dan Cable explores the link between what he calls our "seeking system" (the parts of the brain that encourage and thrive on new experiences and experimentation) and how productive and happy we are with our jobs.
- A fascinating look at the inner workings of the brain and how it affects our work life
- Its clear explanation of why some workers are dissatisfied and disengaged goes well beyond the typical self-help speak about self-motivation and passion
- Author-led research that was conducted in companies throughout the world
Audience: Readers of Dan Ariely, Adam Grant, and Jonah Berger, as well as a core audience of practitioners and managers who deeply feel that work prevents happiness.