Episodes

After a long hiatus, Dr. Ryan Giffen is back with a topic that every leader, supervisor, and manager needs to master: how to handle difficult conversations before they become disciplinary problems. In this episode, Dr. Giffen breaks down the differences between coaching, counseling, and progressive discipline—and explains why the best leaders don't wait until they're frustrated to address performance issues. Instead, they create a culture of clarity, accountability, and trust through timel...

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 impo...

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...

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, buck...

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 wi...

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 evi...

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...

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 t...

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 b...

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 b...

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 ...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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 work  About Dr. Ryan Giffen: With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Ryan Giffen is an expert in human relations and business cu...