Ira Wolfe

Innovation and Entrepreneurship 101
Muhlenberg College
September 18, 2023

Students explore the basic concepts in the continuing processes of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Students will explore how entrepreneurs identify opportunities in the market and validate their ideas with customers using the business model canvas and lean methodologies. The course explores what it means to be an entrepreneur and how to develop the “entrepreneurial mindset” In the context of the entrepreneurial enterprise, some fundamental concepts from economics, accounting, budgeting, management, marketing, finance, and operations will be introduced. Students will also explore the role of teams and networks in venture creation. The course may include readings, speakers, videos, and case studies.

Adjunct Professor
Muhlenberg College
October 27, 2020

Designed and taught new course Organizational Change Management in Master's In Organizational Leadership program at Muhlenberg College, division of Graduate and Continuing Education.

The Perfect Labor Storm v2022
Never Normal News
November 04, 2022

For anyone that follows me, you know I create and introduce a ton of content. I've done that for most of my career starting with my first newsletter - 4 pages, 1-color - published in Oct 1980. At the time, most businesses shared a 1-page, text only, "mimeographed" sheet of paper with customers. While the deliverable has morphed into something I couldn't imagine back then, I continued that practice of curating, creating, and sharing content right up to the present time.

How to Conduct a Change Readiness AQTeam Audit
Adaptability Toolkit
April 22, 2024

Boost your team's change readiness with our adaptability quotient AQTeam audit. Discover the step-by-step process to enhance adaptability.

Embracing Growth: 10 Leadership Development Goals for Tomorrow’s Leaders
Adaptability Toolkit
April 22, 2024

Explore forward-thinking leadership development goals designed to cultivate the skills needed to lead effectively in a rapidly evolving world.

The Power of Adaptability: Thriving in an Ever-Changing World
Linkedln
February 26, 2024

In today's fast-paced and ever-changing world, the ability to adapt is not just a valuable skill - it is an absolute necessity for thriving in both personal and professional spheres.

How Ignoring AQ Is Failing Your Workforce Transformation
Linkedln
February 19, 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of organizational change, workforce transformation stands as a critical endeavor. Companies across industries grapple with the need to adapt, innovate, and stay competitive. Yet, there’s a silent culprit undermining these efforts: Adaptability Quotient (AQ).

025. Unleashing Brain Capital with Wharton’s Michael Platt: Loyalty, Human Connection & Brain Synchrony
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December 04, 2023

In a world where traditional leadership and HR practices are imploding and rapidly evolving, I’m thrilled to release this edition of my newsletter. It highlights the fascinating conversation I had on my most recent “Geeks Geezers Googlization” podcast, featuring Wharton neuroscientist,

024. Neuromanagement Insights: Rethinking Busyness as the Holidays Approach
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November 28, 2023

As the holiday season whirls into full swing, we find ourselves caught in a dizzying array of deadlines and demands.  Picture this: You’re racing against the clock to wrap up year-end projects, hunting for those perfect gifts, and planning a well-deserved vacation – all while trying to cram

How To Make Corporate Purpose More Than A Poster
Forbes
November 28, 2023

Why does purpose play a game of hide and seek in so many organizations? Why does purpose too often remain a poster on the wall, a hollow mantra rather than a lived experience? That was the question I answered in my most recent article published on Forbes.com.

023. The Science of Gratitude and How It Can Help Your Team This Thanksgiving
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November 20, 2023

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022. Do You Still Believe in the School of Hard Knocks? Get Over It!
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November 13, 2023

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021. The most surprising thing I learned at the Wharton Neuroscience Summit 2023
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November 06, 2023

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020. Neuroscience Flips the Script on Employee Engagement
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October 30, 2023

The post 020. Neuroscience Flips the Script on Employee Engagement appeared first on Ira Wolfe.

019. Brains Over Brawn: Neuromanagement is Crushing Traditional Leadership Tactics
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October 23, 2023

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018. Wiring the Future: Why Some Managers Flourish and Others Don’t—It’s All in Their Heads!
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October 16, 2023

Wiring the Future: Why Some Managers Flourish and Others Don’t—It’s All in Their Heads! Ever sat there, gobsmacked, wondering why some managers lead like they’ve been sprinkled with some sort of success fairy dust while others seem to be wading through a never-ending swamp of bad

017. The Surprising Neuroscience of Trust in the Workplace
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October 09, 2023

The Surprising Neuroscience of Trust in the Workplace In this week’s ExtraNeurordinary Newsletter, I’m taking you to the intersection of neuroscience and the daily hustle and bustle of our workplaces. Before we get there, I have a favor to ask. If you’re on Instagram, let’s connect! Ever had

016. Brain Training Games: Do They Boost Brainpower or Just Your Screen Time?
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October 02, 2023

Brain Training Games: Do They Boost Brainpower or Just Your Screen Time?

015. No, Your Brain Isn’t Done Growing—And What That Means for Managers
Ira Wolfe
September 25, 2023

Are you ready to decode the managerial mysteries of the universe—or, at least, the neuroscientific ones? This week, we're turning the spotlight on Oxytocin, the 'Love Hormone' that's so much more than just Cupid's little helper.

015. No, Your Brain Isn’t Done Growing—And What Neurogenesis Means for Managers
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September 25, 2023

No, Your Brain Isn’t Done Growing—And What That Means for Managers: Neurogenesis

The Real Deal on Gen Z: What I Learned from Today's Generation of Undergrads
LinkedIn
September 18, 2023

You've probably heard the rumors, right? Gen Z is a bunch of screen-addicted, socially awkward, apathetic beings who can't look up from their TikTok feed long enough to say "hello." Well, folks, as a top-ranked global thought leader in the future of work and leadership who recently ventured back into the realm of higher education, I'm here to deliver some news: the clichés are as outdated as a rotary phone..

014. Oxytocin: The 'Love Hormone' and its Lesser-known Talents
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September 18, 2023

Did You Ever Question How the 'Love Hormone' Influences Your Gut Feeling?

014. Oxytocin: The ‘Love Hormone’ and its Lesser-known Talents
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September 18, 2023

Welcome back to the 10th issue in my 12-part series on Manager Myths Debunked by Neuroscience! Are you ready to decode the managerial mysteries of the universe—or, at least, the neuroscientific ones? This week, we’re turning the spotlight on Oxytocin, the ‘Love Hormone’ that̵

013. Serotonin - More than Just the "Happy Chemical"
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September 11, 2023

What Managers Should Really Know about Serotonin

013. Serotonin – More than Just the “Happy Chemical”
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September 11, 2023

Welcome back to my 12-part series on Manager Myths Debunked by Neuroscience! Ever wondered why a good meal can turn you into a social butterfly? Buckle up, because today we’re diving deep into the science of serotonin, the so-called “happy chemical.” Serotonin might just be the sec

From Change Manager to Dopa-Manager: How Dopamine Reimagines Leading Change
LinkedIn
September 08, 2023

Let's get straight to the point. The world of work is changing faster than you can say "burnout," and the buzzwords are flying left and right—Grit! Growth Mindset! Unlearning! But what's the connective tissue that makes these abstract concepts stick? Enter the marvelous world of dopamine!

012. Pleasure, Productivity, and a Pinch of Dopamine
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September 04, 2023

Busting the "Reward Hormone" Myth

011. Breaking the Age-Old Myth: You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!
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August 28, 2023

Unleashing the Power of Growth Mindset to Teach Any "Old Dog" New Skills!

What If You Could Time Travel Back to Normal? [Part 1]
Linkedln
April 22, 2024

Imagine hitting a giant rewind button and you miraculously land in 2010, just a few short years before the world was hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Back then, flip phones were still in pockets, and social media was just finding its footing. Think about it: no Zoom for virtual meetings, no 4G to instantly stream Netflix, and no Siri or Alexa to answer your questions.

Yesterday's Grit, Today's Delusion: The Dangerous Overconfidence of the Modern Leader
LinkedIn/Never Normal News
April 04, 2024

In the whirlwind world of exponential change and uncertainty that we currently navigate, the ability to adapt is not just a desirable trait—it's the lifeline that keeps businesses afloat and thriving. Yet, there's an invisible adversary lurking in the minds of many leaders and entrepreneurs, a cognitive bias that silently skews self-assessment and could potentially derail even the most well-intentioned efforts to evolve. This foe? The Dunning-Kruger effect.

Champions on the Field, Rookies in Life: The Truth About Grit and Success
LinkedIn/Never Normal News
April 02, 2024

The world of sports, with its clear winners and losers, offers a dazzling spectacle of what it means to push limits, to strive, and, importantly, to never quit. This ethos of indomitable spirit, while inspiring, casts a shadow on a nuanced truth: the qualities that define sporting prowess do not always harmonize with the demands of real-life resilience and entrepreneurship.

Are You Spinning Your Wheels or Gearing Up?
Linkedln
April 01, 2024

In today’s world, where change zips by in the fast lane, throwing curveballs left and right, there’s a story about an awesome machine in the middle of an active, thriving office that really hits the mark. This isn’t your average tale of cogs and wheels; it’s a deep dive into mastering the art of keeping up when the world won’t stop moving.

Why Most Changes Crash and Burn: Closing The Knowing-Doing Gap
Linkedln
March 29, 2024

Imagine you're on the brink of a major change, whether in your personal life or at the helm of a large organization. You've done the research, held countless discussions, and laid out a detailed plan. Yet, as time passes, you find yourself in the same spot, no closer to your goal. This frustrating scenario is all too common, and it's largely due to a pervasive issue: the knowing-doing gap.

Clean Up the Mess in Aisle 9: A No-Nonsense Guide to the Chaos of Modern Business
Linkedln
March 27, 2024

Alright, let's get down to business—or rather, let's dive into the chaos that business has become lately. Imagine you're at your favorite grocery store. You're cruising down aisle 9, and boom! There's a mess. A big one. We're not just talking a spilled jar of pickles. No, it's more like someone set off a glitter bomb in the flour section. Welcome to the modern business landscape.

5 Reasons Why "Change is the Only Constant" Is Terrible Advice
Linkedln
March 25, 2024

In an era where technological advances and societal shifts occur at breakneck speed, the age-old adage "change is the only constant" seems more relevant than ever. Yet, paradoxically, this well-meaning counsel may be among the worst advice for navigating today’s complex, nonlinear landscape. Far from a call to action, it risks becoming a lullaby for the complacent, subtly undermining the urgency to adapt and innovate. Here’s why:

A Latte Change: What Your Coffee Habits Reveal About Your Immunity to Change
Linkedln
March 18, 2024

Imagine you're in your favorite coffee shop, where you are welcomed by the same crew by name. “Your regular, Ira?” the barista asks. A nod of the head and a warm smile is all it takes to set the order in motion. It's comforting, right? You know exactly what you're going to get, and that certainty feels good.

Why Most Changes Crash and Burn: Closing The Knowing-Doing Gap
LinkedIn/Never Normal News
March 01, 2024

Imagine you're on the brink of a major change, whether in your personal life or at the helm of a large organization. You've done the research, held countless discussions, and laid out a detailed plan. Yet, as time passes, you find yourself in the same spot, no closer to your goal. This frustrating scenario is all too common, and it's largely due to a pervasive issue: the knowing-doing gap. This gap represents the chasm between what we know we should do and what we actually do. It's the reason why most changes, no matter how well-intentioned, often sputter and fail.

The Kodak Moment: How Smartphones Stole the Show
Linkedln
February 08, 2024

ust a few weeks ago, I received an email from Statista. The subject line read: Smartphones Wipe Out Decades of Camera Industry Growth. While I geek out on this stuff, the significance is lost on most people. With the exception of Generation Z listeners, anyone reading this probably remembers owning a camera that required film. Kodak signs hung everywhere. The film most people used was manufactured by Kodak and the prints were processed with Kodak chemicals on Kodak paper. Billions of memories were captured thanks to Kodak. So what happened and how did an iconic company and industry get crushed almost overnight?

Straight Talk for Every Manager in the AI Era: Adapt or Get Left Behind
Never Normal News
February 05, 2024

Unless you’ve been living under a rock or have decided to go off the grid entirely, you’ve likely been swept up in one form or another by all the Artificial Intelligence (AI) tsunami. Following the familiar bell curve logic, it seems 20 percent of the population just jumped without a parachute to explore the allure, while their brethren at the other end, dug in their heels and poured yards of concrete around them to insure nothing could dislodge them from the status quo. The rest of the onlookers as tradition tells us are experiencing a variety of emotions, from angst to cautious optimism.

The Pace Paradox: Why Misjudging The Speed of Change Will Derail Your Strategy
Never Normal News
January 29, 2024

Picture this: a world moving at breakneck speed, where today's innovation is tomorrow's ancient history. Yet, in boardrooms (as well as kitchen tables) across the globe, strategies are being meticulously crafted using yesterday's stopwatch. It’s a dangerous game of catch-up, where the only certainty is falling behind.

026. The Neuroscience of Adaptability
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December 21, 2023

In today’s rapidly evolving world, adaptability isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity. The landscape of work is changing at an unprecedented pace, fueled by technological advances, global interconnectedness, and now, the unforeseen challenges of a post-pandemic era. This cons

027. The Shifting Sands of Employee Well-being
Ira Wolfe
December 18, 2023

How many times have you said or heard “Life is a bit of a circus but I’m rolling with the punches?” Over the last 70 years, the benchmarks for personal and employee well-being have continuously evolved. What was once sufficient has transformed, mirroring the shifting demands and expectations of the job and modern workplace. Let’s journey through this evolution and explore how neuroscience sheds light on these changing paradigms – from mere coping to the pinnacle of thriving at work.

021. The most surprising thing I learned at the Wharton Neuroscience Summit 2023
Ira Wolfe
November 06, 2023

In the modernistic surroundings of Huntsman Hall at the Wharton School, where the future of business pulses like the very neurons we were there to discuss, a surprising theme emerged during the Neuroscience Summit I attended this past Friday. As a top-ranked global thought leader in the future of work, leadership, and HR, I’ve had my fair share of epiphanies, but this one was particularly striking. At a summit where I expected the talk to be all about dopamine highs and the mysteries of the amygdala, the conversation took a sharp turn towards something far more profound: purpose

Recruiting in the Age of Googlization
Author's Place Press
February 04, 2020

Recruiting in the Age of Googlization is really two books in one. First, he draws upon his TEDx Talk message: “Make Change Work for You." He depicts an era of exponential change and disruption called the Age of Googlization. Ready or not, we are crossing quickly into uncharted territory, a world of unknown unknowns. We’re facing a tsunami of HR technology that blurs the line between reality and science fiction. This change can be paralyzing without a strategy and plan.

Recruitment in the Age of Googlization
Author's Place Press
December 01, 2017

No business function is being disrupted by technology and demographics as much as recruitment. Tried and true recruiting practices are no longer working. New job categories are emerging, traditional jobs are disappearing and employment technologies are advancing at an exponential pace. An evolving definition of work and acceleration in the automation of work is only intensifying the competition for qualified workers. And yet many companies continue to recruit and screen talent like it was still 1970.In Recruiting in the Age of Googlization, Ira S Wolfe exposes the realities of automation on the future of jobs and the rapid reconstruction of the concept of work. Wolfe illuminates with his down-to-earth writing style how exponential change will transform or eliminate most jobs and make many business models irrelevant or unrecognizable. Wolfe's examples read like science fiction jumping off the pages of everyday reality. His forecasts and solutions are simultaneously exciting and terrifying. It is within this new business environment that organizations must learn to recruit and retain talent.Whether you're responsible for Human Resources or management or the average worker or student wondering what's next for his or her career, Recruiting in the Age of Googlization is a thought-provoking, compelling read. Recruiting in the Age of Googlization provides a blueprint for a recruitment process that works in any organization. The solution is built on a framework of best practices that will surely help organizations recruit, select, manage, and retain the talent they need. The book will inspire new ideas, spark pivotal conversations, and challenge existing assumptions about business and help lay out a game plan to make change work.

Geeks Geezers and Googlization
Xlibris
August 17, 2009

The workplace has become a potential battlefield between four generations (and soon to be five) struggling to exert their influence and hold on to their world views and attitudes. At its center are the deep-rooted beliefs and attitudes held by each generation toward work, life, and communication.These differences in perspective and opinion are not new.

Perfect Labor Storm 2.0
Xlibris
August 25, 2007

Nearly 20 years ago, The Perfect Labor Storm started brewing. Job requirements dropped so low that jokes about "warm body" hiring and the "mirror" test (if candidates could fog a mirror, they qualified) became mainstream conversation in boardrooms and Human Resources departments. But much like discussions about climate change controversy ensued. A dot-com bust, 9/11, and the Great Recession was proof enough for the pundits and naysayers that shortages of skilled workers was merely anecdotal. Some even suggested it was a hoax.

But not unlike the Andrea Gail, the boat sucked under by the colossal force two days before the full force of "The Perfect Storm" hit, many businesses and organizations are meeting the same fate. Skilled workers are becoming harder and harder to find. While managers and business owners were hoping that the dark clouds would pass over, they failed to understand that this Perfect Storm was unlike any other crisis they ever confronted. Many if not most never took the Perfect Labor Storm seriously. Their wait-and-see attitude and shortsighted strategies is sinking their Andrea Gails - the businesses they caption.

Since the mid 1990s author Ira S Wolfe has tracked the past and future careers of workers while studying demographic and socio-economic trends set against a background of an unprecedented pace of technological advancement. When Wolfe first introduced The Perfect Labor Storm Generation X was the youngest generation. Since that time, Millennials and now Generation Z have assumed that position while the oldest Gen X are now 50+ years old.

The Perfect Labor Storm details multiple factors converging that can't be ignored. For starters, a shortage of skilled workers exists as predicted by Wolfe. While not evenly distributed, no industry or geographic boundary is protected. But the shortage is almost a symptom and not the cause of bigger problems.

Aging populations, five generations working simultaneously, globalization, a crazy pace of technological change, and the growth of female breadwinners have converged to upset norms and traditions. Adding salt to the wound is an ailing healthcare system, failing education for the middle and lower class, increasing employee turnover, obesity, and number of other contributing factors.

Future labor shortages will not blow over. Time has proven that we are experiencing structural disruption in our economy and labor markets unlike any time since the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. Management, politicians, and bureaucrats are playing in a new sandbox. The Perfect Labor Storm lays out in detail why shortages of skilled workers will not blow over and initiates the conversation that must take place.

Understanding Business Motivators and Values
Creative Communication Publications
March 01, 2004

Understanding Business Values and Motivators is THE 21st Century manager's primer to understanding how to motivate employees and how managers can tap into those motivators to encourage continuous productivity improvement, improved morale, and peak performance. Wolfe provides valuable and easily applied tips and techniques that every manager can use right away to motivate employees, loved ones at home, or volunteers. Its purpose is to show you what people value and how to tap into those motivators for their success and yours.

The Perfect Labor Storm Fact Book
Creative Communication Publications
March 01, 2004

The Perfect Labor Storm Fact Book is the best forecast you can buy to plan your employee recruitment and retention programs. Aging workers, retiring baby boomers, rising health care costs, shortages of skilled workers, generational gaps, work ethics are just a few of the workforce demographic and socio-economic events that are colliding to produce the biggest shortage of skilled workers in the United States and many other developed countries.

Best Selling Recruiting Book of All Time
Author's Place Press
December 01, 2017

As featured on CNN, Forbes and Inc, BookAuthority identifies and rates the best books in the world, based on public mentions, recommendations, ratings and sentiment. Recruiting in the Age of Googlzation is listed #7. https://bookauthority.org/books/best-recruiting-books

The Change 19: Insights into Self-Empowerment
The Change: Jim Britt/Jim Lutes
August 16, 2023

I am humbled and elated that to be included in The Change 19, part of the fastest growing personal development book series in the world. This book is a tapestry of 20 unique perspectives, each thread interwoven with experiences, insights, and strategies aimed at lighting your path. Whether you find solace in a story, embrace a new strategy, or see the world through a different lens, know that each chapter was crafted with the fervent hope to touch and positively impact lives like yours. Stay inspired. Embrace the change.

The world around us is in constant flux, brimming with challenges and uncertainties. Yet, it is in the face of these uncertainties that we find our true strength, discover boundless opportunities, and learn the beautiful dance of life. And just as the night is darkest before the dawn, it is our belief that 'The Change' you seek is right around the corner.

The Change 19: Insights into Self Empowerment
The Change
August 14, 2023

The Change 19 explores powerful, life-changing stories from 22 inspiring authors including Global Thought Leader Ira S Wolfe. The chapter reveals the importance of purpose as he shares his journey from a successful, but terribly unsatisfied dentist, to future of work thought leader.

Create Great Culture in a Remote World
Author's Place
October 11, 2022

In Create Great Culture in a Remote World, four of America's top business coaches share their strategies and experiences on how to lead successful remote teams - whether the employees are in the same city or around the world!

Create an Awesome Candidate Experience
Ira S Wolfe
December 01, 2019

A job candidate should walk away from the recruitment experience feeling good, even if rejected. But despite billions of dollars invested in HR technology and countless human hours spent working on improvement, many candidates walk away disappointed, resentful, and even angry. According to The Talent Boards 2019 Research report, candidate resentment has increased 40 percent since 2016. That should be horrifying news since resentment means 71% of rejected candidates will tell their inner circle and one-third will publicly shame you on social media. That’s not just bad for HR but bad for the brand, bad for the business, and bad for the bottom line.
Creating an Awesome Candidate Experience consists of 3+ hours of video interviews with digital and UX experts, candidate experience leaders and multiple how-to lessons. I'm adding fresh content regularly as well as a workbook, so expect to see fresh content regularly.

Success Performance Solutions
Success Performance Solutions
August 01, 1996

We are one of the premier providers of employment assessments and candidate experience optimization.
HR testing, leadership tests, candidate experience optimization, and applicant tracking software for small and medium-sized business.

PeopleForward Network Celebrates Leadership Impact With First Annual Impact Awards
PeopleForward Network
December 07, 2022

PeopleForward Network, a people-first leadership and communications services company, announces the winners of their first annual “PeopleForward IMPACT Awards. Among the winners was Thinkers360 Global Thought Leader Ira Wolfe for Most Forward Thinking Podcast (https://geeksgeezersgooglization.com).

Perfect Labor Storm Author Selected to Top 100 HR Influencers of 2021
Engagedly
July 29, 2021

Engagedly announced its fifth annual list of "Top 100 HR Influencers of 2021" which includes Perfect Labor Storm author Ira S Wolfe. Among other notables honored are Angela Duckworth (Author, Grit), Adam Grant (Author, Think Again), Laszlo Bock (CEO, Humu), and Danny Meyer (CEO, Shake Shack).

Wolfe is the President and Chief Googlization Officer of Poised for the Future Company, Founder of Success Performance Solutions, and host of Talk4TV and Podcast, Geeks Geezers Googlization. His most recent book Recruiting in the Age of Googlization was selected for the top 50 Business Books to read in 2021 by Thinkers360.

What If You Could Time Travel Back to Normal? [Part 1]
LinkedIn/Never Normal News
April 22, 2024

Ever wondered what hitting a giant rewind button to 2010 would be like? Imagine time traveling back 10 years and landing in a global health crisis, in a world where flip phones and landlines were still a thing and social media was taking its first steps. No Zoom, no 4G, no Netflix, no Siri or Alexa to make life easier. How would we have handled a pandemic with just the tools from 2010?

What's your take on this? Could we have managed without our digital advancements?

Beyond the Buzzer: What South Carolina’s Bench Can Teach Us About Adaptability in Business
LinkedIn/Never Normal News
April 15, 2024

Reflecting on the recent Women’s NCAA basketball finals where South Carolina faced Iowa, there’s a standout lesson that goes beyond sports, touching the core of business adaptability: the undeniable value of a strong bench. South Carolina’s overwhelming 37-0 bench point advantage wasn’t just a statistic; it was a masterclass in depth and readiness, precisely what every business needs in its adaptability strategy.

The Secure Everywhere Workforce: Rewriting the Rules of Workplace Flexibility
LinkedIn/Never Normal News
April 14, 2024

For just a moment, let’s rewind to the 1970s: the era of bell-bottoms, disco, and, believe it or not, the dawn of telecommuting. Yes, nearly 10 years before the first personal computer was available, an engineer named Jack Nilles coined the phrase. He and others pictured this: the first glimpses of a world where work wasn't chained to a desk within four walls, with workers dialing into the office from rotary phones at home.

Why Misjudging The Speed of Change Will Derail Your Strategy
LinkedIn
January 29, 2024

Picture this: a world moving at breakneck speed, where today's innovation is tomorrow's ancient history. Yet, in boardrooms (as well as kitchen tables) across the globe, strategies are being meticulously crafted using yesterday's stopwatch. It’s a dangerous game of catch-up, where the only certainty is falling behind.

The Real Deal on Gen Z: What I Learned from Today's Generation of Undergrads
Ira S Wolfe LinkedIn Article
September 18, 2023

Buckle up, Boomers and Millennials: We've Got a Lot to Learn From Gen Z
You've probably heard the rumors, right? Gen Z is a bunch of screen-addicted, socially awkward, apathetic beings who can't look up from their TikTok feed long enough to say "hello." Well, folks, as a top-ranked global thought leader in the future of work and leadership who recently ventured back into the realm of higher education, I'm here to deliver some news: the clichés are as outdated as a rotary phone..

Photographic Memory: Lights, Camera, Memory Misconception!
Ira S Wolfe
August 14, 2023

Welcome back to another issue of BYOBrain Brew, our brain-myth busting series! We've been on a myth-busting marathon, haven't we? From the brain's left-right tango to the whopper of the multitasking myth, we've torn down some pretty all brain tales. And today? Grab your popcorn, because we're zooming in on the blockbuster claim of "photographic memory." Let's snap into it, shall we?

This Week on the Geeks, Geezers and Googlization Show - 8/14
Ira S Wolfe
August 12, 2023

Gear up for another week filled with insights, revelations, and compelling narratives. Trust us, you wouldn’t want to miss any of it! Join the conversation and let's build a brighter, safer, and more respectful future together!

Visual Learner or Auditory Learner? Neuroscience Says You're More!
Ira S Wolfe
August 07, 2023

How Neuroscience Unmasks The Truth about Learning. Welcome back to my fourth of twelve myth-busting issues. This time I’m turning to a widely accepted belief that's been circulated in classrooms, workplaces, and self-help books for decades: the idea that people are either visual or auditory learners.

Walk and Chew Gum: Neuroscience Shatters the Multitasking Myth
Ira S Wolfe
July 31, 2023

Why Multitasking Leads to Lower Productivity and More Mistakes. "Can you walk and chew gum at the same time?" Of course, you can! But how about juggling a phone call, responding to an email, and taking notes from a Zoom meeting simultaneously? That's right, despite what we've been told, multitasking isn't a real superpower, it's a fantastic illusion. The stars of this magic show?

Goodbye Left-Brain, Right-Brain
Ira S Wolfe
July 17, 2023

Neuroscience Ushers in a New Era of Management. So here we go! Welcome to my brain myth-busting series where I dismantle the 12 most common myths that managers need to unlearn to grow and thrive in these Never Normal times, beginning with the left brain/right brain myth.

Mind Over Myth: Are Your Leadership Styles Based on Brain Myths?
Ira S Wolfe
July 10, 2023

Busting 12 Manager Myths About How Our Brains Work. Welcome to the beginning of a Brain’s Guide for Bosses, an exciting journey through the peaks and valleys of our brains. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a myth-busting expedition that will shatter some long-held beliefs about the incredible three-pound universe nestled within our skulls.

Mind Over Management: How Neuroscience is Rewiring the Way We Lead
Ira S Wolfe
July 10, 2023

Neuroscience is Giving Managers a Mental Makeover. Are You Ready? Ah, neuroscience, the brainy disruptor that's shaking up the way managers handle their people. It's like a cognitive revolution on steroids! With its fancy brain scans and neuron mumbo-jumbo, neuroscience is giving managers a backstage pass to the inner workings of the human mind. And let me tell you, it's causing quite a stir in the world of management.

The Brain's Guide to Bossing in 2023
Ira S Wolfe
July 05, 2023

Unlocking Leadership Secrets Straight from Your Brain's HQ. Have you ever found yourself scratching your head, wondering how to light a fire under your team? Are you struggling to retain your top talent and prevent them from getting sucked out the door by your competitors? Do you wonder why management programs that garnered massive ROI and propelled the author CEO to best-seller status fail to bring the best out in your people? Well, prepare to have your mind blown because the answers you seek might not be in your dusty old management textbooks and the heads of charismatic leaders, but rather in the mind-boggling world of neuroscience.

The Experience Revolution
CAPA Empoyer Conference 2023
April 19, 2023

Our world is changing, and jobs are transforming faster than ever before. Skilled labor is shrinking, and resignations are growing, leaving businesses struggling to keep up. With access to top talent becoming increasingly difficult, it's more important than ever to deliver a spectacular experience from the first candidate impression to keeping your best employees on your payroll. What must you do to adapt to this new never-normal world? That's where Future of Work Global Thought Leader Ira S Wolfe comes in. In this must-attend session, he'll share what's ahead for 2023 and beyond, and what HR professionals need to do differently to attract and retain top talent. Whether you're an experienced recruiter, an HR professional, or just landed in the position by chance, this seminar is for you!

Recruiters are Standing in Deep Shift
SHRM
August 25, 2021

During this presentation at SHRM Talent 2021, author and AQ (adaptability quotient) expert Ira S. Wolfe will share why AQ is a top in-demand skill, how talent acquisition professionals can identify the dimensions that separate survivors from thrivers, and which factors have the greatest impact on sustainable performance.

Vision for the Future | VUCA 2030
Ira S Wolfe
December 01, 2020

No matter your plan for 2021, personal or business, you'll need to have adapt-ability. Reimagine Tomorrow, Double Down on Adaptability. What's your plan for 2021?

Workforce 2030
Ira S Wolfe
October 04, 2019

Excerpt from Keynote at Lehigh Valley 2030 Workforce Summit

Just weeks after Ira S Wolfe told the audience of business and HR leaders attending Workforce 2030 that they need to keep an eye on companies like Uber, Uber launched a new app to connect workers with businesses. Businesses can use the Uber Works app to seek and hire workers for short-term or temporary jobs. The Uber Works app allows workers to browse through gig jobs with information about gross pay, job location and required skills. Workers can even log their hours through the app.
In my book Recruiting in the Age of Googlization, I end it by asking the question: “What technological disruption or event could disrupt your ability to recruit, hire, and retain top talent in the next 2 to 3 years?”

Make Change Work for You
TEDx Lehigh River
October 24, 2016

Ira shares his personal template that encourages and inspires others to embrace the future that will be, not the past that was. He shows how to embrace change and make it work positively for individuals and society.

Ira Wolfe describes himself as a “Millennial trapped in a Baby Boomer body.” He is a prototype for the power of
mindset over age. He thinks intensely about how change impacts people and organizations. A prolific blogger, business writer, author, and respected authority on talent management and job fit, Ira walked away from a very successful but unrelated career over 20 years ago and feels he stepped into the future for the first time.

20 Ways Leaders Can Build A Growth Culture By Embracing Failure
Forbes.com
December 01, 2023

To help leaders cultivate a workplace where failure leads to growth—rather than dashed career aspirations or demerits on performance reviews—20 members of Forbes Coaches Council share their expert insights. My response focused on the need to define failure.

20 Common Obstacles Standing In The Way Of Team Transformation
Forbes.com
November 22, 2023

Featured as one of 20 Forbes Coaches Council members in an article discussing some of these obstacles, shedding light on hurdles that can hinder even the most well-conceived and well-intentioned team transformation efforts. My focus was a "lack of common purpose." A recent McKinsey survey revealed that only 15% of frontline managers and frontline employees feel that they are living their purpose at work. Aligning around purpose is all fine and good, but oftentimes alignment runs parallel. It’s essential to find the point where individual purpose and organizational purpose intersect. Help employees craft purpose profiles, then create the opportunity to share them.

18 Coaches Share The Top Issues Clients In Their Space Are Focused On
Forbes.com
September 26, 2023

18 Forbes Coaches Council members each share the No. 1 issue their clients come to them for guidance on and why it is such a focal point in their particular coaching space. Future of Work Global Thought Leader shares his views on adaptability.

The Hypocrisy and Hysteria about Remote Work and Productivity
NTD News
June 19, 2023

Is remote work not good for productivity? You might believe so after reading a just-released survey that revealed that almost 3 out of 4 remote workers scroll through social media during work hours. That 1 in 5 Americans nap during work while doing it remotely. And get this: 3 in 10 Americans (35.3%) say they have moved their mouse around on the clock so that their status showed “active” while they were doing something besides working. Who are the biggest culprits: Gen Zers (50.7%) are the most likely of any generation to do this. (I’ll bet all your Millennials are relieved that all fingers aren’t pointed at you this time!)

Well NTD News reached out to me (Ira S Wolfe) for my response. I summed up it up in just 4 words: “hybrid hysteria” and “productivity paranoia.”

This is deja vu all over again. I cite numerous reports of employees wasting time and dodging managers from over 20 years ago including an epidemic of presenteeism, which I wrote about in my book series Perfect Labor Storm. What’s the solution? Managers must focus on outcomes, not hours and minutes worked.

Do you agree?

BTW - make sure you download Create Great Culture in a Remote World. It's free! https://irawolfe.com/free-book

Fast and Furious: Will AI on a Supercomputer Will Leave Us in the Dust
Dig Life Deep Podcast
June 12, 2023

Part 4 of a series on AI. Here’s another segment about the mind-boggling pace of change fueled by the convergence of artificial intelligence and supercomputing. I share how the speed of technology is accelerating at an incredible rate, with computers 158 million times faster than the microprocessors most of us use today in laptops and smartphones. I dug deeper into the exponential curve of technological advancement, which only means that innovation will continue to skyrocket, leaving our human brain in the dust. But with great power comes great responsibility and we must continuously consider the potential risks and benefits of AI on society. Enjoy and stay tuned. We’ll be visiting AI a lot on Dig Deep Life and my own podcast Geeks Geezers and Googlization Show.

The Resilient Leader's Edge
Geeks Geezers and Googlization Show
June 08, 2023

Imagine a world where leaders embrace their role as custodians, not merely overseeing their organizations, but nurturing them into prosperous and resilient powerhouses. Now, picture yourself at the forefront of this transformative movement, equipped with the tools and mindset to become an exceptional custodian and resilient leader. In this episode, we unravel the secrets behind this revolutionary approach with Scott Abbott, a master of building prosperous, high-growth, resilient businesses. He is an exceptional and resilient leader who thrives in the face of challenges. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and empowered as we explore the incredible journey of being a custodian and resilient leader. This is a conversation you won't want to miss!

Shattering Stigma: Trailblazing Transformations in Employee Mental Health
Geeks Geezers Googlization Show
May 31, 2023

Did you know that nearly one-fifth of U.S. workers (19%) rate their mental health as fair or poor and two-thirds are not thriving? And yet while 97 percent of large companies offer EAP, less than 3 percent of employees use the benefit. Why?

We're ready to challenge the norms, spark outrage, inspire action and shatter the stigma surrounding mental health. From anxiety to burnout, we will fearlessly explore the unspoken battles that individuals face every day. No more hiding in the shadows, it's time to bring mental health to the forefront!

But that's not all! Brace yourself for a mind-blowing exploration of technology's role in supporting our mental well-being and how tech-driven innovations are transforming mental health.

To Pause or Not to Pause: The AI Research Debate with Ira S Wolfe
Dig Life Deep Podcast
May 25, 2023

Part 3 of a series on AI. There's been a lot of talk lately about the dangers of AI and whether we should hit the pause button on its research and development to address potential concerns. Some important people are calling for a 6-12 month pause, but is that even feasible?

Here's another Future Shock 2.0 segment on the Dig Life Deep podcast.
In this episode, I continue my conversation with John Aidan Byrne about Artificial Intelligence (AI).

If we pause, what if the bad actors don't comply? Doesn't that leave us at an even greater disadvantage? The fear and anxiety surrounding AI are real, but maybe a global conversation among all parties could be the solution. What do you think? Let's talk about it in the comments.

Maslow, Martin, and Mattering at Work
Geeks Geezers Googlization
May 24, 2023

For decades, managers and business consultants have jumped on Maslow’s self-actualization model as the holy grail of employee motivation. So why is it that employee engagement and their mental health are at record lows? Have we been duped? Is there more to the story than what Abraham Maslow proposed?

Get ready for a thought-provoking live stream and podcast that challenges everything you thought you knew about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and the future of employee performance, employee well-being, and employee mental health. Buckle up for a captivating conversation as we navigate the complexities of finding meaning, mattering, and purpose in today's ever-evolving workplaces. We will explore not only Maslow's theories but the impact and role of Martin Seligman's positive psychology in the future of work. This episode will undoubtedly make you question everything you thought you knew about self-actualization and discover new perspectives on thriving in your professional life. Don't settle for old paradigms—explore the frontiers of well-being and mattering at work today!

We are thrilled to bring back Zach Mercurio Ph.D for an encore appearance on The Geeks Geezers Googlization Show. Zach is an author, researcher, speaker, and consultant specializing in purposeful leadership, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. He wrote the book The Invisible Leade

Reinvigorating employee wellness that lasts
Room.com
May 23, 2023

2023 may be the year of wellness, as more employers begin to pay attention and prioritize well-being in the workplace.

“Is there a change in management’s willingness to talk about mental wellness, mental health, and well-being? And the answer is absolutely yes” says Ira Wolfe, a longtime HR consultant, author, and speaker on the future of work. “It has become a really, really popular subject.

Innovative Storytelling: How Managers Can Become Heroes of the Future Workplace
Geeks Geezers Googlization Show
May 17, 2023

Have you ever wondered how to encourage resistant managers to lead change and shift their way of recruiting, retaining, and engaging workers in this Never-Normal world? Then this episode is for you. According to Susan Lindner, the world’s leading expert on innovation storytelling, you need to encourage them to become the hero of the transformation. Susan shares how managers can create an emotional and engaging narrative to lead their teams through VUCA - the volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity of today’s world. From brothels in Thailand to the World Bank, our conversation covers a wide range of topics and experiences that have shaped the speaker's perspective on the art and power of storytelling in promoting change. Whether you are fascinated or terrified by change, this episode is for you.

Inside the World of AI: Risks and Opportunities for the Future
Dig Life Deep Podcast
May 10, 2023

It's time to break down the latest segment of Future Shock 2.0 on the Dig Life Deep podcast. In this episode, workforce trends expert Ira S Wolfe shares his excitement about artificial intelligence (AI) and the risks of it falling into the hands of bad actors. With the exponential growth of AI, the potential for misuse is a real concern. The ongoing war in Ukraine serves as a reminder of the impact that technology and AI can have. But fear alone will not prevent the negative impacts of AI. We need to stay informed, develop effective cybersecurity protocols, and apply AI technology itself to keep up with its advancements.

The Ethics of AI
Dig Life Deep Podcast
April 23, 2023

On this episode of Future Shock 2.0 segment on the Dig Life Deep Podcast, Future of Work Global Thought Leader Ira S Wolfe discusses the growing concern around artificial intelligence, or AI. Wolfe is both fascinated and terrified by it. While there are many advantages to AI, such as finding solutions to climate control and medical treatments, the risks versus benefits need to be carefully measured. The recent letter from 800 influential leaders expressing concerns regarding the lack of regulations and guardrails for AI, and the generation of biases and misinformation add to the ethical and practical concerns. Listen to what Ira Wolfe has to say.

Culture Currency: Measuring the Value of Organizational Culture in the Digital Age
Geeks Geezers Googlization Show
April 19, 2023

Have you ever considered the actual monetary value of your organizational culture? If your culture were turned into currency, would it be worth as much as Bitcoin?

In the modern workplace, we all know by now that culture is king. But how do you measure the value of something that’s still so abstract?

This is what Tom Bradbury of Helix2 is working on!

In this episode of Geek Geezers Googlization, we'll take a walk on the wild side with Tom to explore groundbreaking new ways to measure culture and decode its true value in the future of work. From identifying hidden risks, to integrating AI capabilities, into Web 3, to create a consistent framework for governance, measurement, and oversight, we'll cover angles on organizational culture that never seemed possible.

Commercial Space Odyssey 2023: The Future of Workspaces
Geeks Geezers Googlization Show
April 12, 2023

Where to Find AI Jobs in 2023? | Ira S Wolfe interview about Stanford University AI Report
NTD News
April 06, 2023

The hype around artificial intelligence (AI) is on the rise and for good reason. With millions of dollars poured into AI technology in 2022, the demand for AI-related jobs is soaring. In this video, we dive into Stanford University's latest report that reveals the top industries and locations for AI jobs in 2023. Over 800,000 job postings required AI skills, far exceeding the 123,000 layoffs in the tech industry.

According to the report, the information sector dominates the job market, but other diverse fields like manufacturing, agriculture, and forestry are also using AI. The video also highlights the top locations for AI jobs, with California, Texas, and New York leading the way. If you're a tech worker looking for a career change or just interested in AI, then this video is a must-watc

ChatGPT, Jobs, and Babysitting
Dig Life Deep Podcast
April 03, 2023

Looking for a babysitter, teacher, or mentor for yourself and your employees? Or are you just interested in the impact and future of artificial intelligence on work and jobs?

Meet ChatGPT. To prepare for this interview with Dig Life Deep's John Aidan Byrne, I asked Chat GPT to explain itself to a kid. It said it's like having conversations with your toys or stuffed animals, users can engage with users like a friend.

(The downside of that, of course, is terrifying. Think of the movie “Her” which tells the story of Theodore Twombly who finds himself falling in love with 'Samantha', an advanced operating system. But that’s another story related to a loneliness epidemic!)

But what does this mean for our job market? Chat GPT is already disrupting jobs, and many companies are using it to do research and write content, create strategies, and design PowerPoint presentations. Some say this is just the first chapter for ChatGPT and its parent AI. I say it’s only the prologue. The implications of Chat GPT are enormous. Listen.

So, are you ready to embrace the future? Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Chat GPT and the future of AI.

What’s the Future like for These Damn Toxic Cultures?
Growth Hacking Culture
April 02, 2023

In today's competitive business world, toxic work cultures are detrimental to both employees and the organization's success. From negativity, harassment, and discrimination to undervalued employees, overworked staff, and burnout, toxic work cultures can be a recipe for disaster.

While some companies may still maintain toxic work cultures, it's becoming increasingly clear that such practices are untenable and unappealing to both employees and consumers. Companies that prioritize healthy work cultures are likely to be more successful and better equipped to compete in the long term.

In this episode, I have invited a monument of HR, future of work and Culture Ira Wolfe

America's Immigration Challenges: The Education of Foreign Students in American Colleges
Dig Life Deep Podcast
April 01, 2023

Join us for another Future Shock 2.0 segment on Dig Life Deep podcast, hosted by John Aidan Byrne. In this segment workforce trends expert, Ira Wolfe, continues the discussion about America's immigration challenges and the education of foreign students in American colleges. In this video, we explore the challenges of retaining foreign students in the U.S. after graduation and the political and economic challenges that come with it. Ira sheds light on the delicate balance between meeting the demands of schools and fixing labor market problems while not destabilizing foreign countries' economies. Tune in to gain valuable insights into this complex issue.

Cracking the Leadership Code: Secrets to Building Strong Leaders for the 21st Century
Geeks Geezers Googlization
March 29, 2023

Are you ready to step up your leadership game and make a real difference? Leading in the 21st century can be tough, but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, we're diving deep into the secrets of building strong leaders with Alain Hunkins, a leading expert with decades of experience training leaders across 25 countries.

According to recent studies, only 23% of people think their leaders lead well, leading to disengagement, turnover, unhappiness, anxiety, stress, and poor performance. But it doesn't have to be this way. We'll explore the three secrets to building strong leaders, as outlined in Hunkins' book, "Cracking the Leadership Code."

We'll learn how to recognize and overcome bad habits inherited from previous generations of leaders, and how old-school leaders can thrive in the new-school world. We'll also dive into the importance of leading with empathy, and how to overcome the obstacles to developing it. Plus, we'll explore how creating a great employee experience can positively impact your team's productivity and well-being.

Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, this episode is for you. With Hunkins' practical insights and tools, you'll be equipped to build stronger, more effective leaders in the 21st century. So, join us as we unlock the secrets to cracking the leadership code and making a real difference in your team's success.

The Perfect Labor Storm with Ira S Wolfe
BCG ORG Corporation
March 21, 2023

In Episode 67, Ira S. Wolfe discusses The Perfect Labor Storm. Ira S. Wolfe is a dynamic thought leader on the future of work and HR, recognized as one of Thinkers 360's Top 5 Global Thought Leaders in the space.

15 Essential Leadership Skills Every Entrepreneur Should Cultivate
Forbes.com
January 11, 2023

Certain skills have become must-haves, and developing these abilities can help business owners make the most of their entrepreneurial endeavors. Here, 15 Forbes Coaches Council members share essential leadership skills they believe every entrepreneur should cultivate in 2023, and why.

How will high-volume hiring organizations fare in the 2023 job market?
CollegeRecruiter.com
January 03, 2023

In this episode, host Steven Rothberg, College Recruiter’s Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, talks to Ira Wolfe, President and Chief Googlization Officer of Poised for the Future Company, which is an organization that is committed to helping organizations find a better way to grow, thrive, and challenge the status quo. He is recognized as one of Thinkers 360 Top 5 Global Thought Leaders on Future of Work and HR and is the author of six books, including the just released “Create Great Culture in a Remote World”, which is available here.

Ira Wolfe The Workplace Futurist
Shiny Happy People with Vinay Kumar
November 24, 2022

If there was a crystal ball for what the future of jobs, work, and the workplace would look like, it would lie in the head of Ira S. Wolfe. Meet the man who describes himself as a ‘millennial trapped in a Baby Boomer body’ and who says he is both ‘fascinated and terrified of VUCA-level change’! Ira has emerged as one of the top 5 Global Thought Leaders in the Future of Work and HR. He is a workplace futurist, recruitment marketing strategist, employee selection expert, author (of several books), TEDx speaker, virtual keynote speaker and podcaster. Vinay finds out more from this visionary thinker on what happens ‘when the shift hits your plan’. Hit play!

Jobs, Money, and Markets
Geeks Geezers and Googlization
September 07, 2022

Dick Bove, a highly respected financial analyst (you’ve likely seen and heard him on shows like CNBC, Bloomberg News, Fox Business, CNN) and Odeon Capital Group’s co-founder and manager partner Mat Van Alstyne answer questions about the future of labor markets, the economy, jobs and more on this special livestream episode of Geeks Geezers and Googlization. Also joining us will be John Aidan Byrne, host of the popular ODEON CAPITAL CONVERSATIONS podcast. The show is hosted and moderated by Ira S Wolfe and Jason Cochran. The audio version is available here: httpts://geeksgeezersgooglization.com

2024 Predictions, hosted by Ivanti
Ivanti
December 20, 2023

To succeed in 2024, business leaders must embrace the spirit of exploration. Tune in on December 20th at 11 am EST to discover what some of the top minds in the industry at Ivanti predict for the coming year, along with moderator and top influencer in the #EveryWhereWork space, Ira Wolfe. Get ready to be inspired to start 2024 right.

SHRM's Tune in Tuesdays
SHRM
July 13, 2021

Join Ira Wolfe, Amber Clayton, SHRM-SCP, and Dick Finnegan for another engaging episode of “Tune in Tuesdays!” The panelists will discuss #talentacquisition.

Resilience is for "Sissies"
Success Performance Solutions
March 24, 2021

To say that the year 2020 was disruptive is not just an understatement but it reeks of gross negligence. What started as a novel virus morphed into a global socio-economic transformation overnight. Normal died unexpectantly and like a grieving family, the world is mourning its passing

Harnessing Hope and Adaptability: The New Currency of Success
Ira Wolfe
April 25, 2024

Change isn’t just hard; it’s often scary. It’s so scary and hard that the anxiety, stress, and even depression result. Fortunately, there is a pathway through the darkness. The future of work is about adaptability, and hope might be the beacon of tomorrow. Hope isn’t just about fluff and dreams. It’s smart leadership that can positively reshape our futures. Explore with this AQ team of experts the profound impact of hope and optimism in overcoming challenges and spearheading change at work and in personal endeavors. Jump into the real power of keeping hopeful and the world of adaptability.

Dancing with Chaos: Essential Skills to Navigate a Never Normal Future
Ira Wolfe
April 19, 2024

Amidst the tornado of technology and transformation, do you sometimes feel like you’re two-stepping with uncertainty? Fear not, because this week’s episode of Geeks Geezers Googlization is pumping up the volume to not just survive, but THRIVE in the eye of the storm.

Unleashing Better Leaders and Workplaces Insights from Former WD40 CEO Garry Ridge
Ira Wolfe
April 11, 2024

In this episode, Vivian Blade talks with guest Garry Ridge, chairman emeritus of WD-40 Company and founder of The Learning Moment, about the importance of company culture in today’s workplace. They discuss the impact of culture on employee engagement and retention, the essential role of purpose and values, and the ongoing evolution of work in the wake of future workplace trends. They also address the critical need for human connection in the age of technology and the importance of focusing on people alongside business strategy. Join Vivian and Gary for an engaging and insightful conversation about building better leaders and better workplaces.

Future Shock and Awe: Saving Your Life, Business, (and Your A**) with Adaptability
Ira Wolfe
April 04, 2024

Feeling Future Shocked? Got the certainty-addiction blues? This episode dives deep into the ever-shifting currents and consequences of work and innovation. Listen to AQ expert Ira S Wolfe and Michael Lee, a maestro of adaptability, creativity, and innovative thinking. Whether you’re staring down the barrel of a job change, wrestling with the march of AI and automation, or simply seeking to thrive in our fast-paced world, this episode is your beacon.

Coaching Strategies for Building and Leading Remote Teams: The Art and Action
Ira Wolfe
April 02, 2024

The future demands being agile, embracing change, and not being constrained by the past, especially when it comes to remote work and team building. In this episode of Beyond the Office, David Cherry offers a compelling narrative that challenges traditional views on leading teams and remote work, emphasizing the importance of clarity, growth, and adaptability in today’s ever-changing work landscape.

Future Unveiled: Technology, Humanoids, and the Pursuit of Wellness
Ira Wolfe
March 28, 2024

This episode pulls back the curtain on tomorrow to reveal the impact of artificial intelligence, humanoids, and the evolving pursuit of wellness on our lives and workplaces. From the concept of Everywhere Work to the fascinating integration of humanoid robots into our homes, trends spotter Daniel Levine is our guide into the future and explores the implications of these future-shock-like changes on mental health, employment trends, and the very fabric of society. Host Ira S Wolfe and Levine embrace seven key themes reshaping our world: 1. Accelerating Change, 2. Pandemic-induced trend shift, 3. Humanoid robots, 4. Future of distributed work, 5. Growing emphasis on wellness, 6. Impact of technology, AI, and social media on society, and 7.

Creative Insights: Thriving in the Intersection of Work and Life with Joe Serio and Dennis Welch
Ira Wolfe
March 21, 2024

This third and final segment of a thought provoking conversation between Joe Serio and Dennis Welch about creativity is guaranteed to inspire your inner innovator and shake up the way you approach work and life. Explore the powerful intersections of creativity and fulfillment, uncovering insights and inspirations to fuel your personal and professional growth. After soaking up the stimulating conversation, here is just a sampling of the many takeaways you’ll glean about creativity, work, life, and home in the modern world.

Future Proof Your People Strategy with Vivian Blade & Srikant Chellappa
Ira Wolfe
March 18, 2024

Whether you’re a business or HR leader looking to solve pressing turnover, burnout, and workplace culture challenges, this episode of “Better Leaders, Better Workplaces” is a must-listen. Srikant Chellappa, cofounder and CEO of Engagedly, and host Vivian Blade share the latest trends and strategies for creating resilient workplaces. Tune in to discover the key takeaways of treating employees as humans, the importance of transparency and recognition, and the impact of the generational talent shortage. Don’t miss out on valuable takeaways such as these:

Mind Your Business: Unlocking the ROI of Brain Health and Performance at Work
Ira Wolfe
March 08, 2024

Buckle up for this brain-tingling episode. Join host Ira S Wolfe as he teams up with brain health expert Leigh Richardson to delve into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, technology, and workplace culture. Whether you’re a C-suite executive grappling with the complexities of a changing workforce, an HR professional dedicated to fostering inclusive environments, or a curious mind eager to understand the intricacies of the human brain, this episode is your roadmap to a more empathetic and productive future.

Navigating Remote Work Challenges Advice from Cultivate Advisors Alex Dzierbicki
Ira Wolfe
March 05, 2024

Welcome to Beyond the Office with Bill Keller, a GGG Unleashed podcast. We delve into the transformation of work and business in the digital age. In this engaging and insightful conversation, seasoned business advisor, Alex Dzierbicki, shares secrets to success, strategies for economic empowerment, and the importance of vision, values, and alignment in business. From remote staffing and hybrid work to integrating AI into business models, Alex offers valuable takeaways on the future of work, how to build alignment in business, and the power of time management and delegation. Join us as we explore the key ingredients for business success in the digital age and beyond.

The Economy Uncensored: From Wall St to Main St.
Ira Wolfe
March 01, 2024

In an ever-turbulent world where technology speeds ahead and the economy is a rollercoaster of disruption, this episode of “Geeks, Geezers & Googlization” brings you a critical conversation that slices through the noise. Host Ira S Wolfe, joined by a power panel including Wall Street leaders Mat Van Alstyne, Jim Toes, and John Aidan Byrne dives deep into the seismic shifts rattling the financial services and labor markets.

The Significance of Mattering: The Most Coveted Skill Set for the AI Era
Ira Wolfe
February 24, 2024

https://geeksgeezersgooglization.com/episodes/#:~:text=Mattering%20is%20more%20than%20just%20warm%20%26%20fuzzy.%20It%E2%80%99s%20the%20game%2Dchanging%20new%20management%20skill%20set%20for%20the%20age%20of%20AI%2C%20a%20blueprint%20for%20navigating%20the%20wilds%20of%20Never%20Normal.%C2%A0

Revolutionizing Workplace Well-being: An Inside Look with Vivian Blade and Annetta Hunter
Ira Wolfe
February 20, 2024

After listening in on the eye-opening conversation between GGG Unleashed host Vivian Blade and her guest Annetta Hunter, you’ll hear about strategies to revolutionize employee well-being in the workplace, uncover the truth behind employer responsibility, the shared role in well-being, and the must-know tips for boosting employee mental resilience.

The Future of Accounting: From Radical Pricing to AI with Jody Padar and Bill Keller
Ira Wolfe
February 16, 2024

Warning: The future of Accounting is on a thrilling ride. Discover a world where technology is shaking the very foundations of old-school number crunching! In this episode, we dive headfirst into the whirlwind of change gripping the accounting profession. Whether you’re a CPA, C-Suite executive, business owner, or aspiring accountant, after listening to this episode, you might be reeling from the burst of knowledge bombs Jody Padar and Bill Keller drop.

Unveiling Creativity: A Deep Dive into Innovation and Courage with Joe Serio and Dennis Welch
Ira Wolfe
February 15, 2024

Unveiling Creativity is Joe Serio’s latest GGG Unleashed podcast episode on which he dives deep into the power of creativity and courage with Dennis Welch. From finding the courage to change directions in your career to identifying your inner talents, Joe and Dennis explore the transformative journey of chasing your dreams. Discover why waiting for inspiration is just a myth and how embracing the process leads to true creativity. After catching this episode, here are ten game-changing insights we picked up about creativity, courage, work, and finding your true path in life

Crossroads of Change: AI, Jobs, Economic Surprises, and the 2024 Election
Ira Wolfe
February 09, 2024

After tuning into this episode with the fascinating back-and-forth between Ira Wolfe, Gad Levanon, and Chris Borick, here are ten eye-opening takeaways about the future of work, AI, jobs, the economy and the 2024 election.

Thriving Amid Future Shock: Unleashing Agility in Today’s Rapidly Changing World
Ira Wolfe
January 31, 2024

Buckle up folks for another wild ride. In this episode, we chat with BetterUp’s Founding Head and Chief Innovation Officer Gabriela Rosen Kellerman. And trust me, it’s a game-changer!

Leading and Building Remote Teams: A Conversation with Business Coach Jim Wall
Ira Wolfe
January 25, 2024

Join “Beyond the Office” host Bill Keller and esteemed business coach Jim Wall as they dive deep into the art of leading and cultivating remote teams with global staff. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights, emphasizing the significance of:

Cultivating a Growth Culture: Discover strategies to foster a thriving environment of learning and development within remote teams.
Curiosity as a Catalyst: Embrace curiosity not just as a trait but as a powerful tool for both personal and professional evolution.

Decoding Overseas Hiring: Lift the veil on the unknowns and explore the exciting realm of global staffing.

Communication is Key: Learn why clear, direct communication is the cornerstone of effective remote work dynamics.

Coaching’s Transformative Power: Unearth how coaching can ignite individual potential, bridging cultural and geographic divides.

Build for Tomorrow: Jason Feifer’s Blueprint for Success in a Changing World
Ira Wolfe
January 24, 2024

In this episode, we reached into the GGG vault to revisit a compelling conversation with Jason Feifer, Editor in Chief of Entrepreneur Magazine and author of “Build for Tomorrow.” We dive into the importance of adaptability, finding one’s unchanging core in an ever-changing world, and building for tomorrow rather than clinging to the comfort of the status quo. Join us as we explore the four phases of change, the value of seeking feedback for improvement, and the impact of the pandemic on innovation and adaptability. Plus, learn about Jason Feifer’s insights from his conversation with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and how his book provides long-lasting resources for building a thriving future. Don’t miss this engaging episode packed with valuable takeaways. Tune in now!

Work, Life, and Creativity: Unleashing Your Full Potential with Joe Serio and Dennis Welch
Ira Wolfe
January 18, 2024

Do you dread your job? Do you feel stuck? Join Joe Serio and his guest Dennis Welch, in the 1st episode of their 3 part series, as they dive into a captivating discussion about creativity, resilience, and finding your true place in the workplace. In this episode, Dennis shares his wealth of experience, from his role in the corporate world to writing over 500 songs, and brings invaluable insights that will transform the way you perceive work and life.

Navigating the 2024 Economic Landscape: A Wall Street Perspective
Ira Wolfe
January 17, 2024

In a world where economic uncertainty is the new norm, the expert team from Odeon Capital Conversations once again visits Geeks, Geezers, and Googlization. The show was recorded just a few weeks before the start of the New Year but already the forecasts of Wall Street analysts Dick Bove and Mat Van Alstyne are proving to be right on the money! Along with John Aidan Byrne they delve into the enigmatic realm of wealth, recession predictions, and the age-old battle of capitalism versus government intervention. In a spirited exchange, they unravel the enigma of a staggering $65 trillion surge in managed assets, debate the impending turbulence of 2024's economic landscape, and dissect the profound implications of a rapidly widening wealth gap.

The Impact of Mental Health on Workplace Productivity and Employee Well-being with Michael Davis
Ira Wolfe
January 16, 2024

In this episode Better Leaders, Better Workplaces, host Vivian Blade is joined by Michael Davis, a principal with Mindshare Partners, to dig into the seemingly contradictory state of workplace mental health and the strategies to address it. If you're a business or HR leader seeking to create a better workplace, this episode is a must-listen. Get ready to learn how to elevate employee well-being, increase productivity, and foster a supportive work culture.

Empowering Change: How to Embrace Growth Mindset and Thrive
Ira Wolfe
January 15, 2024

Tune in to this insightful conversation featuring a riveting exploration of the power of mindset and adaptability in the face of unrelenting change. Join Rachel Best and Nicole Harvick, hosts of The Change Book podcast, and guest Ira S Wolfe as they unravel the complexities of navigating an ever-evolving world, offering insight, wisdom, and actionable advice.

Happiness, Trust, and Work: Unlocking the Future of Work with Neuroscientist Paul Zak
Ira Wolfe
January 10, 2024

In this episode, neuroscience meets the workplace! Join Ira and Jason as they sit down with Dr. Paul Zak, a trailblazing expert in neuroscience, for a deep dive into how our brain influences leadership, management, and the employee experience. Imagine a workplace where trust and love aren't just buzzwords, but keys to unlocking incredible employee engagement, growth, and culture – especially for the burgeoning younger workforce.

Taking a Quantum Leap: How Leaders Can Unpack Opportunities in the Future of Work
Ira Wolfe
January 08, 2024

Ira S Wolfe shares one of his favorite podcast interviews in another flashback his visit with Doug Thorpe, host of the Leadership Powered by Common Sense podcast. Doug and Ira engage in a captivating conversation about the unparalleled challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of work and technology.

What The Geeks Geezers and Googlization Show Is All About
Podcast Tonight
September 14, 2023

Excerpt from a review published on PodcastTonight.com:

The Geeks Geezers and Googlization Show is not your typical podcast. Hosted by Ira S. Wolfe and Jason Cochran, this show dives into the fast-changing world we live in and how it’s affecting work and people. They believe that the current shift happening in society can be a good thing, an opportunity for growth and thriving. With their conversations, they aim to become the voice of the people and have crucial discussions about the future of work.

In each episode, Ira and Jason talk with HR professionals, business leaders, and experts to tackle important topics like creating a thriving environment for employees, understanding the complexities of the future, and driving organizational transformation through HR’s pivotal role. They also explore emerging themes such as neuromanagment and artificial intelligence.

Their ultimate goal is to bring better ways to reimagine tomorrow in times of uncertainty. They dig deep into how businesses, technology, and people are converging to shape our future. By doing so, they provide insights that help listeners navigate these changes more effectively.

So if you’re looking for a podcast that sheds light on what lies ahead in terms of work dynamics and explores the impact of technology on businesses while keeping things simple yet informative – Geeks Geezers & Googlization Show is your podcast.

How To Stop Trading Hours For Dollars As A Busy Entrepreneur
Forbes
April 12, 2024

The saying “trading hours for dollars” refers to the practice of exchanging one’s time and labor, usually within an established organization, for a fixed monetary compensation, typically in the form of an hourly wage or salary. While many people enjoy and thrive in this type of job, entrepreneurs are different: They create and manage their own business ventures, which, for most founders, involves myriad responsibilities and loads of pressure.

2022 Hall of Fame Speaker Inductee
Https://hrsouthwest.com
October 17, 2022

The Speaker Hall of Fame program was established in 2013 by HRSouthwest Conference to honor speakers who exhibit professionalism and speaking excellence, and who continually contribute to The Conference to further the profession of human resources. Inductees are evaluated by their peers and each candidate must excel in content, delivery, professionalism and communication.

No BS Culture
Interview Builders Show / NAHB
January 31, 2023

The future of work is here and BS (burnout & stress) is taking a devastating toll on workers, from the floor to the C-Suite. Even the World Health Organization now recognizes burnout as an occupational health issue. With labor shortages on the rise and resignations in freefall, employers are finally taking the employees’ mental health and emotional wellbeing seriously. Mitigating burnout, relieving chronic stress, and better connecting employees with their work Hear from Future of Work Global Thought Leader Ira S Wolfe on how to align company and employee expectations in a new world of work.

Duct Tape Can't Fix Your FCDD-up Candidate Experience
Louisiana SHRM Annual Conference
April 30, 2021

Duct tape can fix a lot of things - but a bad candidate experience isn’t one of them. Change isn’t waiting. Traditional recruiting practices aren’t working. And the “fun” is just beginning - the race for talent is in full swing and HR’s future depends on its ability to attract and acquire top talent. It’s time to get your “Shift” together. Get ready to engage top talent in 2020. Build an engaging, mobile, fast, and responsive candidate experience. During this presentation Recruiting in the Age of Googlization author/speaker Ira S Wolfe will guide you on the job applicant journey and provide recruitment marketing tips and insights on how to ensure an awesome candidate experience.

Your Candidate Experience is All FCDD-up
VA SHRM Annual Conference
April 14, 2021

Your Candidate Experience is All FCDD-Up
Indiana SHRM
August 25, 2020

You can hear it in Danny’s voice: Candidate Resentment Fueled by Frustration, Confusion, Disappointment, and Distraction (or FCDD.) Danny represents just one of the thousands of job seekers who experience one or more of these emotions every single day from an all-too familiar bad candidate experience. Presentation at HR Indiana, August 25, 2020. The presentation includes a "tour" of the modern candidate’s job search journey, how to meet top talents’ expectations, and expert tips on how to engage more qualified job seekers.

Accounting's Wild Ride into the Future: Where Balance Sheets Meet the Bleeding Edge
Youtube
February 14, 2024

Warning! This is not your average accounting and ledger talk. We're taking a high-octane dive into where balance sheets meet the bleeding edge of innovation. "Accounting's Wild Ride into the Future" is a rollercoaster ride through the dramatic shifts in accounting - from AI-driven number crunching to blockchain breakthroughs, and everything in between.

The Struggle for Human Connection in a Remote Work Reality
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December 01, 2023

Lack of Trust in Leadership: Why Only 46% Trust Their Manager
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October 14, 2023

Employers Overestimate Trust by 40% and More about High Trust Cultures
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October 10, 2023

What Is an EAP ? | EAP Definition
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September 20, 2023

Yawn Alert! Quiet Quitting is As Standard As Office Coffee
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September 16, 2023

The Alarming Statistics of Loneliness
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September 12, 2023

What Are The Causes Of Labor Shortage? | America's Labor Shortage
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September 10, 2023

The Alarming Statistics of Loneliness: How It's Taking a Toll on Humanity | The Perfect Labor Storm
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September 08, 2023

Perfect Labor Storm and The Profitable Power of Psychological Safety with Ira S Wolfe
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September 06, 2023

From Whispers to Roars: Finding Voice in a Speak Up Culture with Shed Shedletzky
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August 12, 2023

What Are The Recent Challenges Faced By CEOs?
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August 05, 2023

1 Billion Metaverse Users?
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August 04, 2023

Jobs, AI and ChatGPT: $5-10 Trillion Storm Ahead
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August 03, 2023

Where are the Hidden Job Skills in Your Organization?
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August 03, 2023

Love as a Business Strategy? Making Work More Human with Renee Smith
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August 03, 2023

Economic Boom Ahead? Expert Insights with Odeon Capital's Dick Bove
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August 02, 2023

The Changing Face of Commercial Real Estate and Office Space | What is Experience per Square Foot?
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August 01, 2023

The Changing Face of Commercial Real Estate and Office Space | What is Experience per Square Foot?
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July 31, 2023

Breaking Down the Latest Economic Update: Key Insights with Dick Bove and Mat Van Alstyne
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July 28, 2023

Get your brain facts right!
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July 27, 2023

What in the world is Googlization?
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July 25, 2023

Unveiling the Truth about Trust and Productivity Metrics
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July 24, 2023

Why Don't We Measure Happiness?
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July 22, 2023

The Change Book | Fastest Growing Self Empowerment Book Series in the World | Ira S Wolfe
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July 22, 2023

Navigating Never Normal: Digging Deep into SVB, Recession, Jobs, and AI with Odeon Capital
Geeks Geezers Googlization
April 06, 2023

Are we on the verge of the next banking crisis, a recession, more inflation, and soaring unemployment in the wake of recent disruptive events like the failure of Silicon Valley Bank, widespread layoffs, and the rapid ascent of AI? Many of the brightest minds in the industry are saying "we've never seen anything like this before." That's why we've enlisted the help of our exceptional team of experts at Odeon Capital Group to examine the most pressing challenges facing the economy today.

Our guests, Dick Bove and Mat Van Alstyne, along with guest co-host John Aidan Byrne, will help us make sense of it all. Each week, the trio team up for the top-rated Odeon Capital Conversations Podcast.

In a world where we've never seen anything like this, it's crucial to stay informed and be prepared for whatever comes next. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from some of the most knowledgeable voices in finance and economics. Register now to secure your spot and join us for this special Geeks Geezers Googlization event.

A Ticking Time Bomb: Post Pandemic Labor Shortage
YouTube
June 07, 2021

With Post-Pandemic life emerging, employers might be wishing they paid more attention to labor and job trends when they had a chance. U.S. job openings soared to their highest level on record and the National Federation of Independent Businessees found that 44 percent of small businesses had job openings they couldn’t fill. That’s double the previous high over the past 48 years! Ninety-two percent of businesses that are hiring reported few or no qualified applicants. In our continuing Job Shock series, a feature of The Gordon Report, Dr. Edward Gordon and Ira S Wolfe will discuss the near-future and long-term forecast for labor shortages, efforts to rapidly upskill and reskill, and what’s next for wages. If your organization hires employees, you’re not going to want to miss this episode of The Gordon Report.

Future of Workforce Thought Leaders Webinar Series Post-Pandemic Employability
Success Performance Solutions
September 26, 2020

“The ‘normal’ path to employment is on life support,” says Future of Work Global Thought Leader Ira S Wolfe. The COVID-19 pandemic might have just nailed the broken education-to-employment coffin closed, Wolfe warns. “Everyone is focused on jobs. Jobs are just a shiny object in the scheme of things. The whole concept of what it means to be employed and the skills and abilities you need to be employed is being rewritten on the fly.”

To help employers, workers, and students understand the future of work and jobs, Wolfe’s consulting company Success Performance Solutions recently recorded a 4-part webinar series. Wolfe was joined by Edward E Gordon, internationally recognized futurist, economist, researcher, author, and historian. The series is free to attend.

Only 16% of new hires possess the skills needed for their current jobs and the jobs of the future!
Success Performance Solutions
September 17, 2020

Skills are becoming obsolete at a fast rate, something the pandemic has only intensified, Existing roles may require up to 10 new skills by 2021, according to a recent analysis by Gartner. This follows a BCG report that noted "skill mismatches between what employers...

Why Quantifying Diversity & Equity Matters
Success Performance Solutions Blog
August 27, 2020

Today’s workforce is one of the most diverse in our nation’s history. The public outcry for social justice, fairness, equality, and better economic performance has elevated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to the highest priority for business and HR leaders. But while diversity awareness is high, true equity and fairness remain elusive. New evidence from HC Moneyball suggests that certain EEO, gender, and ethnic categories experience privilege at different velocities. They experience the opportunity and benefits of mobility, advancement, and training differently. That’s not fair nor is it good for business and economic performance.

Joining me on this webinar is Dr. Solange Charas, founder and CEO of HC Moneyball, LLC, and the “brains” behind this research.

Cracking The Curiosity Code
Success Performance Solutions Blog
August 13, 2020

Studies show that curiosity drives nearly every skill that shows up on every must-have job skill list, says Success Performance Solutions founder and workforce trends expert Ira S Wolfe. It is the DNA, the common thread, that connects many of the essential skills promoted for the modern worker: critical thinking, emotional intelligence, adaptability, collaboration, and even empathy.

Curiosity it seems is the career currency of the day: necessary for staying relevant, for advancing your career, for keeping the robots at bay from taking your job. We simply can’t perform well or grow our skills without it. And yet parents, business leaders, and our current education system do every possible to immunize curiosity in our kids and workers. We talk about innovation, growth, and STEM but do everything possible to stifle it, says Dr. Diane Hamilton.

Dr. Diane was my guest on this Success Performance Solutions Crowdcast event. She discussed her curiosity research and the four curiosity killing factors she calls FATE. Here is an abridged and edited transcript of our conversation.

The Future of Employees, Work, and FutureNext Leadership
Success Performance Solutions Blog
August 04, 2020

The only John Sanei in the world joined me (Ira S Wolfe) recently for a Q&A about the future employee, future of work, and FutureNEXT Leadership. This conversation was prompted by a LinkedIn post that John recently made about the differences between complicated and complex. This is just the tip of the iceberg! We spoke about future essential skills such as curiosity and adaptability; the 4 different types of sight; why current leadership is so out of touch, and AfterShock. You’ll want to listen and/or read the transcript below.

John Sanei calls himself a knowledge mercenary, one who travels the globe to uncover lessons needed to shift communities and help humanity thrive. We certainly need a lot of that these days. John is Africa’s first faculty member at Singularity University in San Francisco, a lecturer at Duke Corporate Education and a partner at the Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies.

Failure of Current Talent Strategies | Ira S Wolfe and Edward Gordon
Success Performance Solutions
June 26, 2020

Hi everyone. This is Ira Wolfe, and I’m back with my good friend, Dr.Edward Gordon for the second of our four-part webinar series, talking about the future of employment. Today’s topic is a good one. Even the mere mention of it seems to bring a smile to faces, although not in a good way. The Failure of Current Talent Strategies tends to ignite one of the “duh, do you think” moments. During this webinar, we’ll be talking about why current talent strategies are failing fast and begin to explore how organizations must respond going forward.

Future of Employability
Success Performance Solutions
May 21, 2020

“The ‘normal’ path to employment is on life support,” says Future of Work Global Thought Leader Ira S Wolfe. The COVID-19 pandemic might have just nailed the broken education-to-employment coffin closed, Wolfe warns. “Everyone is focused on jobs. Jobs are just a shiny object in the scheme of things. The whole concept of what it means to be employed and the skills and abilities you need to be employed is being rewritten on the fly.”

To help employers, workers, and students understand the future of work and jobs, Wolfe’s consulting company Success Performance Solutions recently announced a 4-part webinar series. Wolfe will be joined by Edward E Gordon, internationally recognized futurist, economist, researcher, author, and historian. The series is free but does require registration.

Wolfe has been warning about a “Perfect Labor Storm” since 1999. Edward E Gordon has been warning about a global talent meltdown for even longer. Their paths crossed in the early 2000s and they have both written and spoken extensively about the future of work, jobs, the skills gap, and the broken education-to-employment system.

SUPERCHARGE YOUR IMPACT: WHY DISC & WHYos are What Peanut Butter is to Jelly!
Poised for the Future Company and WHY Institute
June 22, 2023

Picture this: It's like the classic pairing of bread and butter, salt and pepper, coffee and cream, cookies and milk—separate, they're good, but together, they create pure magic. Now, imagine if we told you that we have an exclusive webinar that will unveil a combination just as extraordinary—a combination that will transform your coaching, consulting, or leadership journey like never before!

Navigating Never Normal: Digging Deep into SVB, Recession, Jobs, and AI
Geeks Geezers Googlization Show
April 06, 2023

Are we on the verge of the next banking crisis, a recession, more inflation, and soaring unemployment in the wake of recent disruptive events like the failure of Silicon Valley Bank, widespread layoffs, and the rapid ascent of AI? Many of the brightest minds in the industry are saying "we've never seen anything like this before." That's why we've enlisted the help of our exceptional team of experts at Odeon Capital Group to examine the most pressing challenges facing the economy today.

Our guests, Dick Bove and Mat Van Alstyne, along with guest co-host John Aidan Byrne, will help us make sense of it all. Each week, the trio team up for the top-rated Odeon Capital Conversations Podcast.

In a world where we've never seen anything like this, it's crucial to stay informed and be prepared for whatever comes next. Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn from some of the most knowledgeable voices in finance and economics.

What You Need to Know to Fix Your FCDD*up Employment Brand
Success Performance Solutions
August 31, 2021

7 Reasons Why You Should Attend
-Your employment brand is all FCDD*up!
*Frustrating-Confusing-Disappointing-Distracting
-You're not attracting enough of the right candidates
-Higher wages and more perks aren't working
-Employees and candidates give you 3 stars or less
-You are sending candidates and employees mixed messages
-Your company reputation is a place NOT to work
-You want to attract candidates (and retain employees) who will do their best work on their best day, keeping all their promises, and achieving all their goals

Reimagine Your Tomorrow: Grow and Thrive in an FCDD-up World!
Success Performance Solutions
August 17, 2021

The SHIFT hit everyone's plans in 2020. The world had to duck and cover. Now that we are emerging from shutdowns, lockdowns, and quarantines, the world that many of us left is significantly different than the world we're living in today. No matter where you live, where you work, or what you do, life is different - and often bizarre and weird. Frustration, Confusion, Distraction, and Disappointment (FCDD) confronts us in unexpected and unimaginable ways. "Getting back to normal" are comforting words, but dangerous ones too. Future change is exponentially faster and it comes in waves. "Normal" means learning to grow and thrive in an era of perpetual uncertainty and complexity. Adaptability is no longer a choice or a nice to have skill but an essential human ability you need to grow and thrive. We all need to become adept at adapting.

Your Playbook for Recruiting in the Age of Googlization
Success Performance Solutions
August 13, 2021

6 Reasons You Should Attend
- Too few candidates apply for your open jobs.
- Too many applicants "ghost" you.
- Your candidate experience is FCDD-up!
- Too many candidates swipe left before they click apply.
- You're overwhelmed and don't know where to start.
- You want a free signed copy of my best-selling books AND my new "playbook" for FREE

Your Playbook for Recruiting in the Age of Googlization
Success Performance Solutions
August 12, 2021

6 Reasons You Should Attend
-Too few candidates apply for your open jobs!
-Too many candidates swipe left before they apply!
-Too many applicants "ghost" you.
-You're overwhelmed & don't know where to start!
-Learn tips you can apply right away and questions you need to ask to get better and faster results.
-Your candidate experience is FCDD-UP!

Reimagine Your Tomorrow
Success Performance Solutions
July 29, 2021

The SHIFT hit everyone's plans in 2020. The world had to duck and cover. Now that we are emerging from shutdowns, lockdowns, and quarantines, the world that many of us left is significantly different than the world we're living in today. No matter where you live, where you work, or what you do, life is different - and often bizarre and weird. Frustration, Confusion, Distraction, and Disappointment (FCDD) confronts us in unexpected and unimaginable ways. "Normal" means learning to grow and thrive in an era of perpetual uncertainty and complexity. Adaptability is no longer a choice or a nice to have skill but an essential human ability you need to grow and thrive. We all need to become adept at adapting. Help your employees adapt. Start the journey here!

SHRM's Tune in Tuesdays
SHRM
July 08, 2021

hile the pandemic has begun to subside in the U.S., turnover in the workplace is only beginning. A record number of people are quitting their jobs, and more jobs are becoming available as the economy reopens. The conditions are right for a mass exodus from workplaces. How can you get ahead of the wave of resignations?

Join us online at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT on July 13 for this month's episode of Tune in Tuesday, where panelists will discuss how HR professionals can stem the turnover tide. Amber Clayton, director of the SHRM Knowledge Center, will be joined by Dick Finnegan, chief executive officer of C-Suite Analytics and speaker at the SHRM Annual Conference & Expo (SHRM21), and Ira Wolfe, president of Success Performance Solutions and speaker at both SHRM21 and the SHRM Talent Conference & Expo 2021.

Your Candidate Experience is All FCDD-up
TempNet
April 27, 2020

Presented for TempNet
Join Recruiting in the Age of Googlization author/speaker Ira S Wolfe in this presentation as he guides you on a modern candidate’s job search journey, explains how to meet top talents’ expectations, and provides expert tips on how to engage more qualified job seekers.

Change and adaptability are nothing new. But today we're living in a VUCA world and many of us just aren't adapting quickly enough. As a result, we're making the future of work up as we go. Adaptability will be this decade'ss core competence required by everyone from the front-line to the board room,.

For 2024, I predict 'VUCA' – Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous – will be the "word" of the year! It encapsulates the global mood amidst AI advancements, natural disasters, climate change, geopolitical confrontations, demographic shifts, and a pivotal U.S. election. This convergence of rapid transformative events leads to Alvin Toffler's 'Future Shock,' where change outstrips adaptation. Through this dynamic period, we will see the gap widen between "normal" and reality. We will see more people adapt and thrive, while hundreds of millions of people fall further behind. I predict 2024 will be a pivotal year in recalibrating where, how, and why people work. Buckle up, folks. Our future depends on it.

My hands down prediction for 2023 is that next year at this time we’ll still be talking about labor shortages. In fact, you can reserve my spot on predictions for the next decade and use the same prediction. While slower economic growth will undoubtedly fuel an increase in unemployment and slowdown in hiring, industries like healthcare, education, warehousing, transportation, and trades are so far under water in staffing key roles that job openings, wage growth, and above average quit rates will persist. You can thank shifting demographics, lower participation rates, and a collapse in the growth of our working age population for the “Perfect Labor Storm.”

In 1999, I described acute labor shortages at that time as The Perfect Labor Storm, a convergence of socio-economic and technologic events that was transforming and disrupting labor markets, jobs, and the world of work. Twenty-two years later, there is an epic fail between the way that companies recruit and workers see jobs and work. Talent is a precious commodity and the talent supply chain is imploding. The transformation is palpably and painfully visible to every employer ... and disruptions are more frequent and accelerating. Welcome to 2022, a Perfect Labor Shift, a seismic change in how, when, and where people work. With most economic forecasts predicting continued economic recovery and growth, the demand for labor will increase, competition for workers will intensify, skill gaps will widen, wages will continue to rise, and access to talent (or lack of it) will determine the fate of many businesses. Automation will replace some jobs but also raise the stakes for more skilled workers to install, monitor, maintain, and repair the new technologies. Concurrently, the demand for workers with uniquely human skills will increase exponentially.

Whether we're working from home, in an office, or some hybrid environment, it's a given: the journey to the Next Normal will be profoundly different than the normal we abruptly left behind. Everyone will need to become adept at adapting.

The Rise of AQ in Future-Proofing Leadership: The C-Suite's Guide to Thriving in a Sea of Uncertainty
Thinkers360
October 24, 2023

In the charming, yet unassuming town of Mainstreet USA, Joe was more than just a craftsman; he was a local legend. He could mend a wobbly table, fix a squeaky door, and restore dilapidated furniture to its former glory. Then, on a day much like any other, fate decided to roll up in the form of a sputtering Tesla, coming to a sudden halt right in front of Joe's quaint workshop.

Out stepped Ms. Jensen, a corporate titan accustomed to steering her company through market volatility and uncertainty. "Joe, my Tesla's on the fritz, and it picked your spot to take a nap," she began. "My Tesla just went kaput. Can you fix it?"

Joe glanced from his trusty hammer and saw to the Tesla's complex dash panel. In that moment, he embodied the dilemma confronting today's executives, senior managers, and business owners. The traditional tools that had made him a craftsman suddenly felt archaic. How do you solve the novel, complex problems in a VUCA—Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous—world with yesterday’s toolkit?

Joe's predicament mirrors what many leaders are grappling with. The tools and skills that brought them and their teams success yesterday aren't guaranteed to solve the problems of today or tomorrow. This new world demands new tools, but what should be in the toolkit for today's leaders?

1. Grit: The All-Terrain Tires of Leadership

Grit is what keeps you on track when the road of business becomes a slippery slope. You're bound to encounter a few bumps and potholes, too. Grit is your all-terrain tires, helping you traverse challenges without losing momentum. Embed this quality within your team's culture.

2. Resilience: The Airbags for Corporate Bumps

Accidents and setbacks are inevitable. Resilience is your airbag, absorbing the shock and preparing you for the next leg of the journey. Equip your teams to bounce back stronger.

3. Growth Mindset: The GPS That Keeps Updating

With a growth mindset, your route is never fixed. A growth mindset is the assurance that there's always another route to your destination. Inculcate the belief in your team that abilities are expandable, not fixed.

4. Mental Flexibility: The Adaptive Cruise Control

Mental flexibility is the 360-degree camera system of your organizational vehicle. It illuminates opportunities in unanticipated directions. With mental flexibility, competing demands are not roadblocks but alternative routes, and tensions morph into avenues for groundbreaking innovation.It's your go-to when the roadmap is unclear or when your GPS screams, "Recalculating!"

5. The Ability to Unlearn: The Reversing Cameras

Sometimes the way forward is to take a step back and reassess. Being able to unlearn is like having a set of reversing cameras, giving you the clarity to shed obsolete practices and back into better positions.

Solution: AQ (Adaptability Quotient): The Self-Driving Feature of the Future

As we move into an increasingly automated and uncertain world, AQ becomes the self-driving feature we all need. Invest in training your teams to adapt, pivot, and reinvent.

Months later, Joe found himself attending training workshops, adding new tools and skills to his repertoire. When Ms. Jensen's autonomous drone (a side passion of hers) malfunctioned and nosedived into a local pond and Mr. Smith’s smart HVAC spewed hot air on the hottest day of the year, Joe was ready to shift gears at a moment’s notice.

So, ask yourself, are you prepared to fix the "Teslas" of your organizational challenges? The key to navigating the VUCA highway is not just a trunk full of old tools but a modern, comprehensive toolkit. Remember, the best leaders don’t just adapt to change; they drive it.

So, fasten your seat belts, folks. The road to adaptability is rarely a straight line, but with the right toolkit, it's a ride you—and your team—can master. Onward and upward, you adaptable road warriors!

Step Up Your Game, Googlization March Madness Begins March 1
Thinkers360
February 21, 2023

Join us for our first webinar, one that will keep you hanging on until the final buzzer.  

Revolutionizing the Workplace: The Remote Work Revolution

Our kick-off event features a panel of future Hall of Fame-worthy workforce experts including Kate Lister, Jeff Abbott, and Gad Levanon.

March 1, 2023 at 1 PM EST

Kate Lister is the President of Global Workplace Analytics and an internationally recognized authority on remote work. Jeff Abbott is the CEO of Ivanti, Inc. a leading cybersecurity company, and an expert on the impact of Everywhere Work on IT security and the digital employee experience. Gad Levanon is the Chief Economist at Burning Glass Institute and a renowned expert on labor markets and workforce trends.

Together they’ll explore the ongoing C-Suite battle over remote work vs in-person-on-site work, working from anywhere, the growing push for hybrid work, plus give you an inside look at playbooks that are working along with significant challenges that are rarely discussed (except, of course, on The Geeks Geezers and Googlization Show.)

Register Here!

Also available on the day-off of the event on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Facebook.

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AI-pocalypse Now:

How to Survive and Thrive in the ChatGPT and AI Revolution!

Our second webinar will a LIVE CHAT and be focused on the slam-dunk that is AI and ChatGPT in the workplace.

March 7, 2023 at 10 AM EST

You don't have to be a bracketologist to know that these innovative technologies are not just disrupting the game but creating a quantum leap in how we work, but when we work, and why we work. Our expert for this event is the one and only John Sanei. John’s approach to the future of work and his ability to explain and explore the impact of technology and advances in neuroscience on our lives is unsurpassed. I interviewed John in the summer of 2021 and he was simply brilliant. He has this uncanny ability to explain uncertainty with clarity and complexity with simplicity. I’m so excited he’s agreed to visit with us again. This is a definite winner on anyone’s bracket. 

By the way, John Sanei is a 5X bestselling author, Singularity University and Duke CE faculty member, Associate Partner at the Copenhagen Institute for Future Studies, Chief of Tomorrow Board Member and podcaster at The Expansive.

Register Here!

Also available on the day-off of the event on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Facebook.

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Mattering at Work with Zach Mercurio

And if that's not enough to jumpstart your work locker, our most recent podcast Mattering at Work with Zach Mercurio was a classic. Although Jason and I interviewed him, I’ve re-listened several times, downloaded it, transcribed it and applied it to how I approach being purposeful and creating something I’ve coined: matterance. You’ll be hearing a lot more about mattering and matterance in the future but for now, you must add Mattering at Work to your playlist. It’s a master course in helping you hit the three-pointer of fulfillment and meaningfulness in your career. 

Mattering at Work is now available on your favorite podcast platforms such as Apple, Spotify, Amazon, and iHeart or you can just click here. 

Listen Now!

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So, whether you're a fan of buzzer beaters, Cinderella stories, or just looking to up your work game, join us for our Googlization March Madness line-up of webinars and podcasts. You won't regret it! 

And stay tuned for more events this month featuring Dave Ulrich and Susan Lindner too.

Ira S Wolfe

Economic Trends and Forecasts for 2022
Thinkers360
January 21, 2022

Slower Economic Growth

2022 is going to be a year of slower economic growth, and employee shortages will continue to be an issue, says Jackie Greene, vice president of Economics at ITR Economics.

Jackie's forecast is definitely one worth listening to. Her firm, ITR Economics, is widely known for having had a nearly perfect track record (94.7 percent ) of economic forecasting over the past three decades. Using data published in her firm's most recent report, Greene paints a detailed picture of what businesses can expect over the coming months.

In an interview with Geeks, Geezers & Googlization Show, she said 2022 will be very different from the "gangbuster year" we experienced in 2021 when easing Covid-19 related restrictions led to an "unsustainable" level of economic growth.

"We are going to see that level of growth tapering off, but it will still be growth through 22 and 23. Just a slowing rate of growth, which from some of the [perspective of the] companies we have talked to, it's been a kind of a sigh of relief when we tell them that because they are struggling to keep up with this high level of demand," she said.

In 2021, economic growth spiked to more than 5% following a year of near-stagnation in 2020 due to the pandemic's disruptive effects. But the long-term trend is much more subdued, with average annual growth of 2.8% in 2022 and 1.6% in 2023, according to ITR Economics.

You can listen to Greene's full interview below:

Employee Shortages Will Continue

Greene expects labor shortages will continue in 2022 and employee turnover rates, which have been on the rise in recent months as large numbers of people have been quitting their jobs, looking for more flexible and higher-paying opportunities.

"That problem is not going away," she said, "That problem was before Covid. It's not new. It just intensified."

Greene's views align with those of other leading industry experts, including Evan Sohn, chairman and CEO of Recruiter.com. On a different episode of the Geeks, Geezers & Googlization Show published on December 22, 2021, Sohn said there are currently at least 11 million open jobs in the United States.

"The last thing we need is more jobs," he said, "That's not the problem right now. We got to get people back to work for a variety of reasons." 

Sohn attributed part of the problem to the so-called "job hopper economy." The term refers to the trend where people change jobs frequently, which has been happening at an unprecedented level in recent months.

Citing recent surveys showing that 60% of millennials have no problem leaving their jobs within six months, he said companies will struggle to find qualified candidates for their open positions.

"Part of why there is a job hopper world now is that I can as an employee work from anywhere. I can find a company that will let me work from anywhere with the skills that I want," he said,

"Think about all the jobs that you didn't even pursue because they were geographically undesirable. It's just not going to happen anymore."

Sohn referred to a report his company recently published, predicting six significant trends in the 2022 job market. In addition to the labor shortage, the other five include:

• Remote work is the new normal: The Covid-19 pandemic has transformed remote work from a perk into the new normal. More companies will embrace telecommuting to attract and retain the best talent.
• Work-from-anywhere will morph to hire-from-anywhere: The war for talent will intensify as companies compete to offer the best work-from-anywhere options, which will include an increasing number of benefits and flexibilities.
• Employees will continue to demand more of a work-life balance: The trend of employees seeking a better work-life balance will continue in 2022, with more workers asking for flexible hours, job sharing, and other arrangements.
• Diversity will continue to be a focus: Diversity and inclusion will continue to be top priorities for companies in 2022 as they seek to attract and retain the best talent. According to a survey cited by Recruiter.com, 75% of executives would leave their firm for one with diversity initiatives.
• Building a community at work will take on new forms: In the age of remote work, companies will focus on building communities that transcend geography. This could include more social activities, such as happy hours and book clubs, or using technology to create closer connections among employees.

Listen the full interview with Evan Sohn below:

HR Will Not Be About HR

David Ulrich, author, and co-author of more than 30 books on human resources (HR), told the Geeks, Geezers & Googlization Show's last 2021 episode that the time had come to "reinvent" HR.

"HR is not about HR," he said, explaining how the traditional understanding of HR as a department that manages the hiring and firing of employees is no longer relevant in today's economy. "HR is about helping your organization compete and succeed in the marketplace."

When it comes to remote or hybrid work, Ulrich said it should not change the structure or responsibilities of HR.

"Where we work and how we work to me doesn't matter very much," he said. "Why are you working? To create value for a customer outside the company. How are you working? I don't care if it's through technology or how it is. What are you doing to create value for a customer and an investor in a community outside?."

Ulrich hopes that 2022 will be the year when HR becomes a strategic component "sitting at the table" with marketing, finance, and operations to create a competitive advantage for the company.

"I find some HR people saying it's all about people," he said, "Unless the employee wellbeing leads to a customer experience that creates value for the customer, there is no workplace."

To achieve that goal, he said, companies must "empower" employees to be creative and entrepreneurial, focusing on the customer and not worrying about job security.

"The ultimate accountability in an organization is not just the business leaders or the HR leaders. It's the employee," he said. "How do we help empower employees? One of my tests of a leader is a simple one: does the employee leave the interaction with the leader feeling better or worse about him or herself?"

Listen to the Dave Ulrich interview below:

The Future of Employees, Work, and Leadership | An Interview with John Sanei
Thinkers360
August 11, 2020

One of the top global thought leaders on our future John Sanei offers a dire warning: “Applying normal rules in a complex world is the worst thing we can do.” To help make sense of how all of us should be preparing for what John calls FutureNEXT (also the title of his upcoming book), John joined me for Q&A about what he calls FutureNEXT. Sanei is not surprised to see so many people struggling, even grieving over the death of “normal.” With its passing, our world abruptly transformed from complicated to complex. “Our efficient rules and systems that we used to use failed fast and furious in the early stages of the pandemic. Our ability to forecast and plan were abruptly disabled. Even the experts don’t know what will be coming,” warns this 3X best selling author and Singularity University faculty member. Sanei recently addressed the challenge of people moving from complicated to complex in a video he posted on LinkedIN. He followed that with a powerful inquiry asking “can we teach passion?” Sanei offers his insights and forecasts for the future employee, future of work, future leadership and more. Sanei’s presentation is the first of 4 weekly webinars in August hosted by Success Performance Solutions and moderated by Chief Googlization Officer Ira S Wolfe. Click here for more information and registration. Future topics included Cracking the Curiosity Code, Diversity, Inclusion, and Inequity, and Future of Employment. Learn more. About Our Speaker! John Sanei (Sah-nay) comes alive at the intersection of human psychology and futurism and uses his truly unique perspective to discover elegant ways for his global audience to build the clarity and courage needed to approach the future with confidence. Not only is John Africa's first Singularity University faculty member and a lecturer at Duke Corporate Education, but he is also an Associate Partner at The Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies - the only person on the planet to hold these three positions. His rare ability to combine his fascination with emerging technology and its impact on society with a clear understanding of the way memories and stories influence our reality has seen him share the stage with several world-renowned thought leaders, including Yuval Harari, Nassim Taleb, and Robin Sharma, amongst many others. To watch and/or read the transcript, go to https://www.successperformancesolutions.com/john-sanei-futurenext/

AQ Masterclass

Location: Online    Date Available: November 04th, 2020     Fees: $97 per participant

Submission Date: October 18th, 2020     Service Type: Service Offered

REIMAGINE your team's response to change!
BOOST your business adapt-ability!
GROW your competitive advantage!

We have entered the fastest period of change the world has ever seen. Fast Company recently shared "we are approaching the fastest, deepest, most consequential technological disruption in history." There’s a real danger that millions of people and thousands of organizations will be left behind. Adaptability is the key to transforming the way your teams and business reimagine their future. Unfortunately, research reveals that only 1 in 4 employees have high adaptability levels. Consequently, there is such a clarion call for leaders to rethink and adapt that Harvard Business Review describes "Adaptability Quotient" as the new competitive advantage. Likewise, Linkedin identified Adaptability as one of the most in-demand skills of this 3rd decade of the 21st century. Adaptability Quotient (AQai) is a game-changer!
Join us for the 1st Masterclass of its kind starting Nov 4 or schedule one for your team today. (minimum of 10)