Description
In this short series of programmes we introduce the key findings from neuroscience as they relate to HR. work.
Why do we think an understanding of neuroscience is essential for HR professionals? That’s an easy one to answer: because it tests management theory and provides a sound evidence base for HR practice.
What’s more, in our work, and particularly in our work with leaders in organisations, we’ve found explaining how our brain actually works has been very effective in persuading leaders to be less resistant, and more open to changing their own behaviour. Most leaders like the evidence base of science: it clicks with them.
The other reason we find the insights of neuroscience so useful is that they get leaders to think carefully about their own thinking processes, beliefs and experiences. Leaders recognise how their own brains react, and the research results make sense to them personally. This is a valuable tool in the HR armoury in creating the kind of insight and commitment that translates knowledge into action.
For ourselves, as HR professionals, neuroscience research explains the why of our policies. Why is it a good idea to include social rewards? Why is an engagement policy working with some people and not others? Why it is important to understand the role of emotions in making decisions on talent? Why may bias creep in to decisions without anyone noticing.
We call all this “Brain-savvy HR,” as a shorthand for HR practice that is informed by an understanding of how human brain works. We created this on-line programme as an introduction to neuroscience for HR: showing how it explains why people act the way they do; how we – and the people we work with – can change; and the way key concepts, like engagement, reward and motivation, work in the brain. We wanted to share around some of this important evidence, propose how it can inform HR work, and hopefully give you some answers to a few thorny questions.
How the programme is structured
Neuroscience for HR is the introductory programme for HR professionals. We intend to follow it with other short programmes on learning, behavioural change and bias. (Plus any others you tell us would be of interest)
This programme includes, explanations of the science in easy to access format, videos, case studies and tools plus a chapter of an ebook in each module which builds to an ebook covering the programme. We also include articles and video references, as well as the original scientific papers so you can explore further.
Each module suggests reflection and application practices, so you can apply your learning. At the completion of the programme you will be able to use your insights with your team, your clients and yourself to better understand how the brain impacts thinking, decisions and business. Taking this programme will give you a strong foundation and ways to explain and use an understanding of neuroscience to guide policy and practice and your advice to leaders.