Planning for succession The fundamental point of succession planning is that you have to work out what objectives you want to achieve through the succession. Selection is mostly driven by a focus on the ‘who' rather than the ‘what'. If the ... [full story]

The public sector perspective Similar stories about stressful succession exist in the public sector, where cultural change has seemed difficult and slow though not impossible. It is possible that Kennedy will be reappointed for a further term. But should this not ... [full story]

Confusion in the corporate sector So, does a planned baton change that includes cultural continuity, GE style, satisfy the market and bring a better chance of success? Woolworths sets up contest for chief executive job (headline from Sydney Morning Herald, 20 ... [full story]

Culture through the lens of sociology Organisational culture is the set of values, beliefs and understandings shared by an organisation's employees and it ranks among an organisation's most powerful tools. But the same values and beliefs that can mobilise an organisation ... [full story]

The benefits of workplace humour Almost 400 years ago, the English writer and clergyman Robert Burton observed: Humour purges the blood, making the body young and lively, and fit for any manner of employment. A growing body of scientific and medical evidence ... [full story]

What is humour in the workplace? Most definitions of humour revolve around the quality of being amusing and an ability to appreciate the comic. Yura and Walsh have stated that humour is not just an attractive trait but an essential human ... [full story]