What if everything you thought you knew about leadership was wrong?
This question was the starting point for Paul College Associate Professor of Organizational Behavior Michael Kukenberger during his recent appearance on NPR's "The Pulse."
Kukenberger and Lauren D'Innocenzo, an associate professor of organizational behavior at Drexel University, were on the show to share their research that challenges traditional views on leadership and team dynamics.
Key Findings from the Research
Open Communication Through Targeted Debriefs: Kukenberger and D'Innocenzo discovered that when teams engage in structured debriefs, their performance can improve by as much as 40%.
Empowerment Over Control: Their research also found that empowering employees to take initiative and make decisions can lead to better outcomes than the traditional top-down approach.
Risks of Complacency in Skilled Teams: Even highly skilled teams, such as those in surgical environments, can fall into the trap of complacency. Kukenberger’s work highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and continuous improvement, even among expert groups.
While 'The Pulse' explored various workplace dynamics, Kukenberger's research on collective leadership stood out. His work suggests a fundamental shift in effective team management and organizational structures.
The U.S. Army has recognized the potential of this research, investing $1 million in a UNH/Drexel grant to further explore these concepts and their application to team change.
Want to Learn More?
You can dive deeper into the conversation by listening to the full interview. The discussion on UNH’s research begins at the 44-minute mark.
