More purpose, fewer silos: some keys to meaningful work

In the show "Severance," characters don't understand the point of their work. And they barely know their colleagues.
The Macrodata Refinement department at Lumon Industries includes Dylan (Zach Cherry), left, Irving (John Turturro) and Mark (Adam Scott).
Apple TV+

Why are office parties so awkward?

It's just another example of "forced fun" at work, something we take a look at in the show "Severance" for Econ Extra Credit.
Tramell Tillman and Britt Lower dancing during the short office party scene in "Severance."
(Apple TV+)

On "Severance": Why you should balance work and life instead of separating them entirely

The hit Apple TV+ series "Severance" offers searing commentary on corporate values, organized labor and finding purpose at work.
From left to right, actors John Turturro, Britt Lower, Christopher Walken and Adam Scott in “Severance,” now streaming on Apple TV+.
Apple TV+

What a former WeWork executive learned about company culture

Melissa Daimler says company culture is "not this nebulous set of values — it's a very distinct set of behaviors that are then embedded into the daily workings of a company."
Melissa Daimler says company culture is "not this nebulous set of values — it's a very distinct set of behaviors that are then embedded into the daily workings of a company."
Grady Reese/Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

Paid family leave gaining traction, including among small businesses

Mar 3, 2022
Opposition to paid leave has often been rooted in the challenge it poses to businesses. That calculus is changing.
A child runs past signs at a paid leave rally in Brooklyn. A growing number of businesses have shown support for paid family leave during the pandemic.
Bryan Bedder/Getty Images for NYC for Paid Leave

Why more companies are hiring heads of remote work

Oct 26, 2021
It's about company culture, performance management and lots of logistics.
With many companies embracing work-from-home or hybrid models, some are creating leadership positions to focus on the transition.
visualspace via Getty Images

Why some companies are cutting back the 40-hour workweek

Oct 5, 2021
As workers struggle with burnout during the pandemic, some employers are testing a four-day week to combat overwork and lift morale.
Abigail Marks, professor of the future of work at Newcastle University, worries that some employers will "try and force five days’ work into four days."
Hector Retamal/AFP via Getty Images