Neuroscience is a scientific discipline focused on studying the brain and nervous system. In the last 20 years, it has experienced rapid development, particularly thanks to the development of technologies such as functional magnetic resonance imaging. Neuroscience does, however, apply not only to medicine or biology, but also in social sciences such as economics, sociology or psychology.
Many experts are focusing on how to use knowledge of neuroscience to manage behavior in the workplace. Two studies regarding the use of neuroscience in HR were just published by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, a British professional body for HR and people development.
Practical application in HR
The first study entitled Neuroscience in action: applying insights to L&D practice deals with practical examples of applying neuroscience to employee training and development. Case studies of eight organizations, including Volvo, BT and SABMiller, describe the positive impact of a better understanding of the functioning of the human brain in relationship to employee engagement, improving customer service, reducing turnover and employee training costs. The study contains a number of practical recommendations for training managers on how to implement the findings of neuroscience in employee development using minimal costs.
The second study entitled Our minds at work: developing the behavioural science of HR deals with the use of behavioral neuroscience findings in other areas of HR such as recruitment, compensation, performance management, employee engagement, implementation of organizational change, team building, etc. It states that the purpose of behavioral science is not just to change people's behavior, but also to create optimal conditions for effective thinking.
Both studies are available for free download from the CIPD website:
Neuroscience in action: applying insights to L&D practice
Our minds at work: developing the behavioural science of HR
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