In this insightful episode of The Corporate Shadow, Dr. Ryan Giffen explores the complexities of navigating political conversations in the workplace, a topic that's more relevant than ever in today’s diverse and divided landscape. From fostering inclusivity to maintaining professionalism, Dr. Giffen shares actionable strategies for both employers and employees. Learn how to set respectful boundaries, promote open communication, and cultivate empathy at work. This episode also highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion training, support systems like Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and leadership modeling the behavior they expect from their teams.Whether you’re a leader seeking to maintain a cohesive work environment or an employee looking for ways to engage in respectful discussions, this episode offers valuable guidance on creating a culture of care and understanding amidst political differences.Tune in and discover how to build a workplace where everyone feels respected, regardless of their political beliefs.Stay inclusive and take care!Produced by Inospire Inc.

This episode is not just timely but fundamental in building forward-thinking companies. We're talking about inclusive leadership. Let’s take a deep dive into the significance of inclusive leadership in the modern workplace as we explore the multifaceted benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful organization. For leaders and employees to function harmoniously, it is crucial to bridge the communication gap that often exists between them. An understanding and appreciation of the art of effective communication can significantly enhance the efficiency, creativity, and morale within a workplace. So join me as I provide 7 simple ways on how leaders and employees can foster an environment of trust, respect, and open dialog that will translate into thriving and innovative organizations resulting in a competitive and dynamic business landscape. 

Conflict is like a constant companion in the realm of human interaction, and it's never more apparent than in the bustling corridors of our workplaces. It's a natural consequence of diverse perspectives, personalities, and ideas converging under one roof. But here's the catch: conflict, if handled effectively, can actually be a catalyst for growth, innovation, and stronger relationships. However, when mismanaged, it can leave behind a trail of broken connections and irreparable damage.So, buckle up and get ready to explore the transformative power of conflict resolution. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with practical tools and stories of success that will help you harmonize your workplace and make conflicts work for you, not against you.

In this episode of "The Corporate Shadow," host Dr. Ryan Giffen, a professor and people operations expert, discusses the critical theme of building trust within a work environment through transparency, accountability, and respect. Dr. Giffen highlights that trust serves as the foundation of strong workplace relationships and delves into the key elements for cultivating this culture.

Today we're diving into a crucial topic that's shaping the way we work today: Strengthening manager-employee relationships in the workplace.

If you have been laid off from your job, it can be a scary and stressful experience. It’s important to remember that there are steps you can take to get back on track and start working again. Here are some of the things I recommend doing after being laid off: -Reach out for help. Don’t hesitate to lean on your network of family, friends, former colleagues, or even potential employers for advice and support. -Take stock of your financial situation. Many people who experience layoffs struggle with financial issues afterward. Make sure you have enough money in an emergency fund, so you don’t fall into debt if something unexpected happens while looking for a new job. -Update your resume and get it out into the world. Make sure your resume looks professional, reflects relevant experience, and is tailored to the positions you are applying for. Use job search websites and apps to find new opportunities matching your skill set. You can also reach out directly to hiring managers or recruiters if you know anyone at a company you’re interested in working for. -Take advantage of any available resources. Some employers offer severance packages or other forms of assistance after lay-offs, so make sure you understand what you're entitled to as soon as possible. You may also qualify for government benefits such as unemployment insurance or training benefits while looking for a new job. -Take care of your mental health. Being laid off can be a traumatic experience, and it’s essential to take time to process the emotional impact of the layoff. Talk to a therapist or counselor if you need additional help dealing with the layoff and its aftermath. These are just some steps I recommend taking if you have been laid off from your job. By proactively seeking out help and staying positive, you will be able to find new opportunities and get back on track with your career.About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)

If you're in a job that you're not enjoying, seeking a new opportunity can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach and preparation, you can find yourself happily employed sooner than you think! Here are some of my tips to consider when looking for a new job while still employed: 1. Think strategically about interview timing: Decide when it's best to interview for another position, such as at the end of your current work day or on weekends. Keep in mind that most employers want to see evidence that you've been able to manage your time efficiently, so interview during times when you know that your current job won't be affected. 2. Network, network, network: Your professional networks can help open doors to new opportunities. Attend industry-related events and conferences, use social media platforms like LinkedIn to reach out to potential employers, and, most importantly - ask for referrals! Having a referral from someone already in the hiring process is critical in making it easier and faster for you to land an interview. 3. Do your research: Know what type of role you are looking for and who is hiring, and do your homework on the company before sending in any applications or attending interviews. Not only will this give you a better understanding of whom they are looking for, but it will also enable you to interview when it doesn't interfere with your current job duties. 4. Get organized: Make sure your documents are up-to-date and easily accessible. Have an organized list of references and a portfolio of work samples before you interview. 5. Be honest: When it comes to job interviews, honesty is always the best policy. If you’re asked why you're looking for a new role, keep your answers focused on what made this particular opportunity stand out and how your current experience can benefit the company. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to finding a job that suits your needs while still employed at your current position.About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)

As a leader, staying on top of talent acquisition and retention is essential to ensure that your workforce is motivated and productive. Maintaining morale is one of the most critical aspects of successful talent management. Unfortunately, many leaders see engagement as a one-time effort instead of an ongoing process, leading to a workforce that isn't motivated or productive. To avoid this pitfall and ensure that you attract and retain talent for the long haul, here are my three tips for engaging your talent: 1. Offer competitive pay and benefits: A competitive salary package will encourage talent to apply for positions with your organization and help keep them around once they're hired. Additionally, offering competitive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other perks can incentivize talent to stay with the organization. 2. Foster a positive work environment: A positive workplace atmosphere is key to keeping talent engaged. Encourage team collaboration, create a mentor-mentee relationship program, and ensure that all employees feel respected and valued. 3. Lead with purpose: Inspiring leadership can make all the difference in talent management. Create a vision for your company and team that talent can believe in, provide regular feedback on their performance, and set achievable goals for everyone involved. By implementing these strategies into your talent management process, you'll be better prepared to recruit and retain productive talent well into the future!About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

The labor shortage is only going to get worse, driving business decision-making in the years to come.Employers are struggling to find qualified employees, which will only continue as the population ages and more jobs are automated. To attract and retain top talent, businesses must focus on offering competitive wages and creating a positive work environment.Technology can help bridge the gap by automating some tasks, but it can't replace human interaction entirely. Businesses will also need to invest in training programs to help employees keep up with changing trends.The labor shortage is a sign of things to come, and businesses need to start preparing now if they want to stay ahead of the curve.About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

When it comes to having tough conversations with co-workers, it’s important to remember a few key things. First, be clear about what you want to say. Avoid dancing around the truth, as Brene Brown says, because it’s unkind. Second, make sure you’re speaking to the other person in a way that they will understand. Be respectful and try to see things from their perspective. Finally, be open to hearing what they have to say in return. If you can approach tough conversations in this way, you’ll be able to resolve any issues that come up and maintain a positive working relationship with your co-workers.About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

Layoffs continue to be front and center, thanks primarily to the shadow of a potential recession.Layoffs can often seem appealing for companies looking to reorganize or cut costs. However, without careful consideration, layoffs may do more harm than good. There is evidence that a lack of leadership during periods of reorganization can increase employee dissatisfaction and turnover in the long run.Layoffs rarely achieve their intended outcome. While companies may save some money upfront due to lower wages and benefits costs, this benefit is often negated by hiring and training new employees, not to mention the loss of institutional knowledge when experienced workers are let go. Ultimately, while layoffs may appear to be an easy fix in the short term, they often bring unintended consequences that ultimately hurt companies more than they help. As such, leaders must think carefully before taking such drastic steps as workforce reductions, instead focusing on alternative measures that minimize disruption while still addressing organizational needs.About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

The Great Resignation is favorable for both employees and employers. This episode explores the most common reasons employees resign from their positions and how the Great Resignation empowers both employees and employers. About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he has continued to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships, and the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

Employers screen candidates to discover whether a job applicant could jeopardize what they stand for, their reputation, and workplace safety. The same should apply to job seekers. Screening your future employer will give you the necessary knowledge and understanding of the company’s needs, potential, and weaknesses. Thus, helping you make the right decision to be part of the right organizational culture. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why you should screen companies before applying for the job* Tips on how to run an efficient employer screeningAbout Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

Feeling unhappy with your work can decrease your motivation, productivity, and enthusiasm. You might think you are unable to do anything about how you feel at work, but there are things you could do to increase your workplace happiness and reinforce the sense of meaning. In this episode, you’ll learn: -What makes people happy at work -5 things you can do to be happier workAbout Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

It’s no surprise that 43 percent (https://www.mercer.com/content/dam/mercer/attachments/private/global-talent-trends/2021/gl-2021-gtt-usa.pdf) of companies want to increase the talent learning ecosystem, focusing on upskilling or reskilling (https://www.mercer.com/content/dam/mercer/attachments/private/global-talent-trends/2021/gl-2021-gtt-usa.pdf). However, employees should also learn how to make the most of career opportunities and advance in the workplace. In this episode, you’ll learn:* What you can do to speed up your professional development.* How to leverage growth and learning opportunities in the workplace. About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like.  Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach. For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness.  Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen:Website (https://ryangiffen.com/)Podcast (https://www.corporateshadowpod.com/)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen)Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen)Twitter (https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen)

85 percent (https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2021-07-09-gartner-hr-research-reveals-more-than-half-of-employees-have-experienced-significant-damage-to-their-workforce-health-since-the-start-of-the-covid-19-pandemic) of employees experience high levels of burnout, and 41 percent report a decline in work-life balance. An overwhelming number of employees reports that companies are pushing them to their limits, requiring availability beyond work hours. Thus, causing concern for complete worker burnout. In the previous episode, we discussed how you can deal with work overload and restore work-life balance.  In this episode, Dr. Giffen shares 4 tips on how you tell your boss you’re on the brink of burnout. In this episode, you’ll learn: -4 tips on how to tell your boss you’re on the brink of burnout.   About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like. Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach.  For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness. Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen: Website Podcast LinkedIn Instagram   Twitter

Overworked employees have more tasks and responsibilities than they can handle or their job role allows. They either feel intrinsic pressure to go the extra mile due to a competitive workplace atmosphere, or their managers impose these expectations on them. So, how do you deal with work overload and restore work-life balance?  Here are 4 tips on how to deal with work overload.  In the next episode, Dr. Giffen shares 4 tips on how you tell your boss you’re on the brink of burnout. In this episode, you’ll learn: * How the COVID19 Pandemic Exacerbated Burnout in Already Overworked Society * 4 tips on how to deal with work overload About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like. Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach.  For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness. Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen: Website Podcast LinkedIn Instagram Twitter

How many companies have efficient Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity (DI&E) policies in place that make a long-lasting difference across all levels? – That mostly depends on the size of an organization.  For instance, 60 percent of businesses with under 50 employees have no diversity initiatives at all. On the other side, 55 percent of companies with between 5000 and 10,000 hires have structured DI&I practices.  Yet, the positive change can only be enduring when all organizations, regardless of their size, have effective inclusive programs. But at the moment, 41 percent of managers state they’re too busy to implement any diversity and inclusion initiatives. As long as that’s the case, preferential treatment, bias, and segregation will hinder inclusive recruitment, workplaces, and impartiality. There shouldn’t be any pretexts for why a company is failing to drive inclusion.  DI&E initiatives integration is challenging, but it’s essential as it ensures everyone gets an equal chance. The path towards fostering unbiased recruitment and diverse values starts with assessing how inclusive your workplace is. In this episode, you’ll learn: · 5 strategies to help foster an inclusive work environment through recruitment. About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business culture. His career began in hospitality, leading operations and human resource departments for Fortune 500 companies and the like. Not long after, Ryan found his passion for teaching and consulting. He earned a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management with a Human Resources focus from Iowa State University and now works as an assistant professor at California State University, Long Beach.  For over a decade, he continues to research and speak on organizational culture, relationship intelligence, and leadership effectiveness. Ryan is also the founder of Inospire, a company helping bosses and employees build stronger relationships with one another as well as the host of the Corporate Shadow Podcast. Connect with Dr. Ryan Giffen! Website: https://www.inospire.com Podcast: https://inospire.com/podcasts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgiffen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.giffen Twitter: https://twitter.com/ryan_giffen   Facebook:

In 2020, the world struggled with the COVID-19 pandemic, which the majority finds wor...