Productivity

News Flash: Workplace Socializing Is Productive

An MIT researcher talks about the usefulness of water cooler chatter

November 13, 2008
Contrary to their every instinct, managers should actually encourage their workers to chit-chat, to gather around the water cooler -- even to gossip. An MIT researcher reveals why these guilty pleasures are, in fact, good for a company's productivity.
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The Five Stages of Workplace “Tribes”

Two researchers say that your tribe is more important than anything else at work. Here’s how companies can harness the power of that insight to understand and influence team performance.

The Eleventh Element of Great Managing

This element is measured by the statement “In the last six months, someone at work has talked to me about my progress.” Some people think a performance review will suffice. But it’s not nearly enough, write the authors of 12: The Elements of Great Managing.

Can Employees Be Friends With the Boss?

Yes indeed, according to research. In fact, managers who demonstrate care for employees have more engaged staffs. So writes bestselling author Tom Rath in his latest book, Vital Friends: The People You Can't Afford to Live Without, which was released this month.