Transforming Workplaces one Behaviour at a Time
Work can define us, engage us, and take up tens of thousands of hours of our life. It is often the first subject of conversation between new acquaintances who want to know “What do you do?” followed by “Where do you work?”
Canadian workers and the organizations that employ them are faced with increasing challenges. Full-time and career-long jobs are becoming increasingly scarce, while independent contractors and temporary workers are more commonplace. Stressed workers are frequently responding to increasingly competitive work environments by hiding information from coworkers. Even the most important office communications aren’t happening across a desk, but via computer keyboards and smart phone screens.
Dr. Catherine Connelly is Canada Research Chair in Organizational Behaviour. Connelly is analyzing the implications these workplace transformations have for workers and organizations.
By using mainstream organizational behaviour and psychological theories, Connelly is discovering the true costs to organizations of hiring non-permanent workers. She is also identifying the cues that determine how individuals react to and interpret electronic communications, and is exploring the conditions that result in knowledge-hiding behaviours. In addition, Connelly is examining how leaders can deal with high-stress work environments, while still maintaining their effectiveness.
Connelly’s research will lead to improved information, communication, training and guidance for workers, organizations and workplaces in Canada that face rapid changes and significant challenges.