Why every organization needs to become more brain-savvy

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to set out why every organization and every leader would benefit from understanding more about the brain and what helps it to perform at its best. It provides some examples of what leaders would benefit from knowing and touches on some applied neuroscience research conducted with leaders in four organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper sets out two challenges facing all organizations: improving productivity while also promoting mental and emotional wellbeing at work. It touches on research conducted with leaders in four organizations exploring the impact of learning about the brain on their ability to lead others.

Findings

The paper suggests that leaders who have a better understanding of the brain are better equipped to improve productivity in the organization and to promote emotional and mental well-being at work.

Originality/value

The paper sets out why every organization needs to teach leaders, managers, all employees about the brain and what helps it to perform at its best. It provides some examples of what knowledge people would benefit from acquiring. It shares some research conducted into applying neuroscience in the workplace.

Citation

Scarlett, H. (2016), "Why every organization needs to become more brain-savvy", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 30 No. 5, pp. 11-13. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-03-2016-0031