THE NEUROSCIENCE OF TALENT MANAGEMENT

Brain anatomy and structure are also providing useful data on cognitive capacity and functioning. "There's a limit to how much new information we can handle each day, how many complex decisions we can make without compromising quality and how effective we can be under stress," commented Vorhauser-Smith. "Most executives are pushed pretty hard, with tough workloads and long days. The emerging research is showing that operating under constant stress disturbs the delicate balance of brain chemicals, shuts down our creative and analytical minds and makes us prone to reactive judgments and decisions that are safe and predictable."

Neuroscience findings are also highly relevant in the area of organizational development and culture. "I can't think of a PageUp People client of that isn't focused on increasing employee engagement. It's the number one goal for many OD and Talent Managers because of its tight correlation with productivity and performance. Engaging employees has everything to do with making strong connections between employees, leaders, the goals and culture of an organisation."

"In many ways, the leadership bar has been raised again," continued Vorhauser-Smith. Neuroscience makes really clear the positive and negative effects leadership style and communication can have in the workplace. "In their position of power, leaders have some potent tools at their disposal that can work to create environments in which employees thrive and shine, but also in which they feel threatened and fearful. Leaders really need to understand human functioning better if they are serious about motivating teams and helping individuals reach their potential."