Proactive workers are in high demand, and it’s easy to understand why. When it comes to creating positive change, these employees don’t need to be told to take initiative. Research confirms that, compared with their more passive counterparts, proactive people are better performers, contributors, and innovators.
When to Take Initiative at Work, and When Not To
Some problems aren’t yours to solve.
August 21, 2019
Summary.
Researchers analyzed 95 studies investigating when employee proactivity leads to positive or negative outcomes. Through their analysis, they identified three determining factors that strongly align with psychologist Robert Sternberg’s balance theory of wisdom. The theory argues that wisdom comes from balancing one’s interests with the interests of others and those of broader society. The “right way” to be proactive thus includes three elements: managing yourself, considering others, and aligning with organizational goals.
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Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Writing Skills. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Capture your audience's attention with smarter emails, Slacks, memos, and reports.