The Work Wire

Bob Goodwin, Johnny Taylor, Jr.

SHRM CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. and Bob Goodwin, President at Career Club, host a lively conversation on how the latest news impacts all things work-related.

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Is Remote Dead? - The Work Wire

Is Remote Dead? - The Work Wire

Discover the future of work as we navigate the post-pandemic world alongside SHRM President and CEO Johnny C. Taylor Jr. This episode promises to unravel the complexities of hybrid work environments, a topic that has gained traction since the seismic shift in workplace models. Together, we'll explore the intricacies of balancing remote flexibility with the essential needs of in-person collaboration, a challenge that is reshaping the way we think about productivity and professional well-being.As the world grapples with the nuances of hybrid work, we shine a spotlight on how this model impacts diverse employee demographics, especially underrepresented minorities. With Johnny C. Taylor Jr. at the helm, our discussion traverses the crucial role of empathy in the workplace and probes the evolving dance between employee preferences and employer policies. We also tackle the tricky subject of proximity bias and its potential to hinder career growth, making a strong case for why a hybrid model may just be the key to equitable and effective work conditions.Rounding off our conversation, we scrutinize the tech industry's response to remote work trends. From Silicon Valley giants reassessing their work policies to the broader cultural implications of aligning personal values with professional spaces, we leave no stone unturned. As we dissect the varying perceptions of CEOs and their policy enforcement, we affirm the necessity for mutual respect and open dialogue in shaping a work culture that honors both employer mandates and employee choice. Tune in for an episode that doesn't just provide insights but encourages a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of work.

Episodes

Is Remote Dead? - The Work Wire

Is Remote Dead? - The Work Wire

Discover the future of work as we navigate the post-pandemic world alongside SHRM President and CEO Johnny C. Taylor Jr. This episode promises to unravel the complexities of hybrid work environments, a topic that has gained traction since the seismic shift in workplace models. Together, we'll explore the intricacies of balancing remote flexibility with the essential needs of in-person collaboration, a challenge that is reshaping the way we think about productivity and professional well-being.As the world grapples with the nuances of hybrid work, we shine a spotlight on how this model impacts diverse employee demographics, especially underrepresented minorities. With Johnny C. Taylor Jr. at the helm, our discussion traverses the crucial role of empathy in the workplace and probes the evolving dance between employee preferences and employer policies. We also tackle the tricky subject of proximity bias and its potential to hinder career growth, making a strong case for why a hybrid model may just be the key to equitable and effective work conditions.Rounding off our conversation, we scrutinize the tech industry's response to remote work trends. From Silicon Valley giants reassessing their work policies to the broader cultural implications of aligning personal values with professional spaces, we leave no stone unturned. As we dissect the varying perceptions of CEOs and their policy enforcement, we affirm the necessity for mutual respect and open dialogue in shaping a work culture that honors both employer mandates and employee choice. Tune in for an episode that doesn't just provide insights but encourages a deeper understanding of the evolving landscape of work.

Followership - The Work Wire

Followership - The Work Wire

Discover why being a follower might just be as crucial as being a leader with Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club and Johnny C. Taylor Jr., SHRM's President and CEO. This episode takes a surprising turn as we scrutinize the societal obsession with leadership and the overlooked art of followership.Prepare to have your notions of success and influence turned on their head as we uncover what it means to be an exemplary follower in a world transfixed by leaders.

Loyalty - The Work Wire

Loyalty - The Work Wire

In the latest episode of Work Wire, Bob Goodwin of Career Club and Johnny Taylor Jr. from SHRM go deep into the evolving landscape of workplace loyalty, sparked by a recent Business Insider article by Aki Ito on its perceived decline. The discussion explores the historical shift from a "company man" mentality to today's more transactional employee-employer relationships influenced by globalization and technological advancements. Johnny emphasizes the dual role of employers and employees in the erosion of trust.The conversation also addresses the impacts of technology on the labor market, noting that it not only broadens opportunities for employees but also for employers to seek cheaper labor globally.Bob and Johnny discuss the changing nature of employment contracts, influenced by shifts towards knowledge-based work and the fading relevance of traditional job security measures like pensions. Highlighting the complexity of modern employment dynamics, they argue that loyalty must be mutual and conditional, challenging the traditional notion of unwavering company loyalty. This episode promises deep insights into the strategic and human elements shaping today's workplaces, urging HR professionals and employees to reconsider the meaning of loyalty in a rapidly changing work environment.

Civil Conversations - The Work Wire

Civil Conversations - The Work Wire

Join us for a thought-provoking episode of The Work Wire, featuring Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, and Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., President and CEO of SHRM. Dive into a compelling conversation about fostering civility in the workplace amidst increasing social and political tensions. Bob and Johnny explore the challenges of workplace toxicity, highlighting the shift from traditional issues like discrimination to modern concerns such as political discord. Discover SHRM’s ambitious initiative to promote one million civil conversations, aiming to transform workplace culture and, by extension, broader societal interactions. Learn about practical strategies to encourage respectful discourse and understand the powerful role HR professionals can play in shaping a more civil, understanding workplace environment. Tune in to gain valuable insights into turning conflict into constructive dialogue and why promoting diversity goes beyond surface-level differences.

Google Sit-ins - The Work Wire

Google Sit-ins - The Work Wire

Join Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, and Johnny Taylor, CEO of SHRM, in a compelling podcast where they explore strategies for fostering civil and respectful communication in the workplace. They'll dive into effective methods that both employers and employees can use to ensure that all voices are heard and respected. Tune in for expert insights on enhancing dialogue and building a more collaborative work environment.

Candidate Experience - The Work Wire

Candidate Experience - The Work Wire

Join us for a compelling episode of Work Wire as we explore the nuances of the recruitment process with a focus on enhancing the candidate experience. This discussion covers the challenges and strategies involved in treating candidates as valued customers and the impacts these practices have on employer branding.The conversation begins with an examination of prevalent issues in recruitment, such as ghosting and the often lengthy and inefficient interview cycles. Insights are shared on regional variations in candidate experiences, highlighted by data from the Talent Board, which notes a significant rise in candidate resentment scores in North America.Further discussion delves into the realities of rejection within recruitment, the complexities of providing feedback, and the importance of managing legal and ethical considerations. The benefits of extensive interview processes are also debated, emphasizing their role in ensuring a thorough mutual assessment essential for determining cultural fit and job satisfaction.Throughout the episode, emphasis is placed on the necessity of empathy, respect, and strategic communication in transforming recruitment practices. Practical advice is offered on how companies can maintain positive relations with all candidates, thereby enhancing their reputation and strengthening their employer brand.Tune in to this insightful episode to understand how to make recruitment a more empathetic and effective process that respects candidates and enriches your company's brand. This conversation is a must-listen for HR professionals and job seekers alike, providing valuable insights to navigate the complexities of modern recruitment.

Timeless Lessons in Leadership - The Work Wire

Timeless Lessons in Leadership - The Work Wire

In this enlightening episode of The Work Wire, hosts Johnny Taylor Jr. and Bob Goodwin welcome Indian business titan Shiv Shivakumar to explore the evolution and future of leadership. Shiv, with his extensive experience from PepsiCo India to Advent International, offers a deep dive into the transformative traits required for today's leaders. The discussion unfolds across four segments, starting with how leadership has morphed in our digital age, to practical strategies for thriving in a VUCA world, promoting a culture of accountability and growth, and finally, the impacts of technology on the workplace. Tune in for a timeless masterclass in leadership from a seasoned expert.

Affinity Classes - The Work Wire - Episode 23

Affinity Classes - The Work Wire - Episode 23

Join us as we discuss a controversial initiative at Evanston Township High School in Illinois to introduce voluntary "affinity classes" for black and Latino students in some subjects. These classes would be taught by teachers of color and only include black and Latino students, with the goal of addressing achievement gaps. However, Bob Goodwin and Johnny Taylor Jr. had significant concerns about this approach, seeing it as a form of segregation that could disadvantage students long-term and fail to prepare them for integrated environments in college and the workforce. We discussed potential unintended consequences and the need to carefully evaluate outcomes over multiple timeframes to determine if this approach is truly effective or causes more harm than good.

When Leadership Goes AWOL - The Work Wire - Episode 22

When Leadership Goes AWOL - The Work Wire - Episode 22

Listen to an important discussion on the Work Wire with Bob Goodwin and Johnny Taylor Jr! They dive into the recent situation around Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin's hospitalization and lack of communication from the Pentagon. Bob and Johnny explore the implications for leadership, policies, values like trust and candor, and organizational culture. This conversation provides valuable lessons for any workplace on ensuring transparency, accountability and care for employees. Tune in to hear their insightful analysis!

Balancing Employees Views and Workplace Productivity - The Work Wire - Episode 21

Balancing Employees Views and Workplace Productivity - The Work Wire - Episode 21

This episode of the work wire tackles an important topic around the role of corporate platforms in political discourse and how companies can best support diverse employee perspectives while maintaining a productive work culture. Johnny Taylor and Bob Goodwin discuss Microsoft's experience and provide thoughtful insights for how HR can help companies navigate these complex issues. If you're interested in learning how to balance internal communication, employee expression and corporate responsibility, I encourage you to listen to this episode!

Pharmageddon - Episode 20

Pharmageddon - Episode 20

This episode of The Work Wire discusses the growing issues in healthcare staffing known as "Farmageddon." Hosts Bob Goodwin and Johnny C. Taylor Jr. talk about recent pharmacist and nurse strikes and walkouts due to burnout, understaffing, and low pay. They explore how the pandemic exacerbated existing problems and discuss potential solutions like changing work models, utilizing pharmacy technicians more, and regulated immigration. The conversation also touches on rising healthcare costs, political obstacles, wage inflation, and the risks of an inadequate healthcare workforce. Tune in for an insightful discussion on addressing the critical challenges facing those on the frontlines of healthcare.

The Four Day Work Week - Episode 19

The Four Day Work Week - Episode 19

Tune in to the next episode of The Work Wire with Bob Goodwin and Johnny Taylor Jr. as they continue their discussion on the four day workweek and the implications for employees, employers and the economy. Don't miss their insightful analysis and thought-provoking perspectives on this important workplace issue.

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership - Episode 18

Emotional Intelligence in Leadership - Episode 18

In this episode of the Work Wire, Bob Goodwin is joined by Johnny C. Taylor Jr. to discuss the importance of emotional intelligence for leaders. They cover topics like self-awareness, self-regulation, assuming good intent, and empowering employees to feel a sense of agency and control. Johnny shares his 5 points of emotional intelligence and how they relate to building motivation. This conversation provides valuable insights for any leader looking to improve themselves and their organization.

Is Free Speech Really Free? - Episode 17

Is Free Speech Really Free? - Episode 17

Is free speech truly free? This episode tackles the complex issue of expressing political views in the workplace and on college campuses. Johnny Taylor and Bob Goodwin discuss recent controversies, legal considerations, and best practices for diversity and inclusion. You'll gain new insights into navigating difficult conversations while maintaining an open and respectful environment. Tune in to get their perspective on finding common ground during polarized times.

The Silent Epidemic - Episode 16

The Silent Epidemic - Episode 16

In this episode of "The Work Wire," hosts Bob Goodwin and Johnny Taylor Jr. tackle workplace mental health and suicide prevention. They discuss the rising concern of workplace suicides in the US and emphasize the need for vigilance, especially during Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. The hosts highlight the impact of the pandemic on mental health, with increased loneliness and a lack of empathy in America.They address the stigma surrounding mental health in the workplace, emphasizing the fear of discrimination and negative consequences for employees who disclose mental health conditions. The hosts call for a more empathetic approach to mental wellness and accessible resources.Bob and Johnny stress the importance of addressing mental health in the workplace proactively and the need for empathetic leadership. They discuss the emotional toll of job loss and offer personal stories of vulnerability, underlining the significance of empathy and support.The episode concludes with a focus on empathy and humanity as key factors in addressing workplace diversity and inclusion issues.

CEOs Makes 272x More than Workers... Is That Fair?

CEOs Makes 272x More than Workers... Is That Fair?

Johnny Taylor Jr., President and CEO of SHRM, joins Bob Goodwin, President of Career Club, to discuss the controversial topic of executive compensation. They dive into the details behind recent reports that CEO pay is now 272 times the average worker. Johnny provides important context around how CEO compensation is structured and reported. While acknowledging the need for living wages for all employees, Johnny also argues that CEO pay should be evaluated in the broader context of comparable industries and the value these leaders provide to their companies. An insightful debate on the complex issues surrounding this emotional issue.

How is Social Media Affecting Gen Z in the Workplace?

How is Social Media Affecting Gen Z in the Workplace?

On this episode of The Work Wire, we examine the complex implications of immigration policies, spotlighting the Biden administration's decision to grant work visas to 80,000 Venezuelan immigrants amid the turmoil in their home country. This move has raised questions about prioritization, particularly in comparison to Haitians who are being repatriated, leading to tensions and debates about immigration needs and consequences. We also explore the challenges associated with work visas in the US, acknowledging their potential for exploitation while highlighting the pressing demand for labor with millions of job openings.We then delve into the unique characteristics of Generation Z and how their experiences, shaped by the pandemic and digitalization, are reshaping the workforce. The episode also addresses the impact of social media on polarization and stress among Gen Z, as well as their mental health and financial pressures in the workplace. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of empathy and active listening for effectively managing Generation Z in the workplace while recognizing the existing gap in understanding their values and behaviors among senior executives. Stay informed and join the conversation! #WorkWire #Immigration #GenZ #Empathy #WorkplaceTrends

Is 90 The New 65?

Is 90 The New 65?

In this episode of The Work Wire, Bob Goodwin and Johnny Taylor Jr. discuss whether there is ever an age where age starts to become a legitimate factor in one's job or career. They explore recent examples like Senator Dianne Feinstein stepping down at age 90 and a 96-year-old federal judge being suspended due to concerns about her mental competence.Johnny argues against making assumptions based purely on age, citing examples of high-performing older individuals like Warren Buffett. However, he acknowledges that certain roles requiring strong mental acuity, like judges, could benefit from cognitive evaluations to ensure safety and competence. Bob and Johnny debate the idea of implementing standardized cognitive tests for roles like the President. They agree tests should start earlier to avoid ageism but ensure those in positions of power can still perform mentally and physically demanding jobs. This insightful conversation tackles the complex issue of aging, ability, and when it's appropriate to reconsider someone's role.

The Value of Challenging Employees

The Value of Challenging Employees

Episode description not available.

Inappropriate Workplace Behavior - The Work Wire

Inappropriate Workplace Behavior - The Work Wire

This episode of WorkWire discussed inappropriate behavior in the workplace. Johnny and Bob talked about three recent examples - the CEO of BP resigning after admitting to inappropriate relationships with colleagues, a Michigan State football coach being suspended during a sexual harassment investigation, and the president of the Spanish soccer federation being suspended for kissing a player without consent. They discussed how standards have changed from whether something is legally harassment to whether it shows good judgment. They also talked about the responsibilities of boards, HR, and individuals to address inappropriate behavior, ensure a safe workplace, and model ethical conduct.