Organisational psychology (also known as industrial or occupational psychology) is the scientific study of how people behave in the workplace. It’s a broad role that works alongside human resources (HR) to observe employee behaviour and critically evaluate workplace practices and performance - with a view to resolving issues, maximising productivity and ultimately creating a happy environment.
With the average full-time working week coming in at just over 37 hours, when you add that up over a lifetime, it's a whole lot of time spent in the workplace. So, naturally, throughout our working lives, we'll face ups, downs, changes and challenges alongside many colleagues in our many different roles.
Industrial organisational psychologists are often employed by businesses as they undergo a period of transition - such as a change in ownership. They use a range of scientific methods, including quantitative and qualitative research to help leaders:Industrial organisational psychologists are often employed by businesses as they undergo a period of transition - such as a change in ownership. They use a range of scientific methods, including quantitative and qualitative research to help leaders:
- communicate more effectively with teams
- motivate employees so they're more invested in the company
- improve job satisfaction and boost employee retention
- boost performance and productivity
Organisational psychologist personality traits
Our fictional famous industrial psychologist
Toby Flenderson is the HR representative for the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, Inc. in TV sitcom, The Office. In the episode ‘Counseling’, Michael Scott is required to attend counselling sessions with Toby after a physical altercation with his nephew and intern, Luke. Although the session’s portrayal is exaggerated for comedic effect, it highlights workplace conflict resolution, which is something an occupational psychologist can be involved in.
The possible industrial psychology careers
