Dr. Patricia Hewlin studies organizational diversity and the organizational participation and treatment of minorities.
As with so many How I Work subjects, her work has a personal resonance.
We talked to her about her career path and the problems shes trying to solve.
I grew up in a home where there were always books around.
I was drawn to learning about random topics ranging from biology to the populations of cities.
During that time,the PhD Projectsent me postcards, encouraging me to consider pursuing a PhD in business.
I am doing what I love as a scholar, administrator and instructor.
), personal perspectives and ideas at work.
I use my research to help students and people integrate more of themselves in the workplace.
My research has found that when people create facades, they experience emotional exhaustion and low work engagement.
Authenticity is therefore critical to enhancing personal well-being in the workplace.
Take us through a recent workday.
It is pretty fast moving, but I am thankful for that morning connection.
It is my foundation and reminder of what is most important.
By mid-morning, my work day was filled with meetings connected to my Associate Dean role.
During the summers and a few times during the academic year, I travel overseas for conferences and research.
What apps, gadgets, or tools cant you live without?
I often travel to China for research and teaching, and I cant live without the Google Translation app.
The voice and word scanning features are indispensable.
Whats your favorite shortcut or hack?
I love voice recording for writing and taking notes.
How do you keep track of what you have to do?
I develop to-do lists regularly with paper and pen.
I like placing a line through each item I completethe visual is motivating!
My to-do lists are very long so I add a date to each item.
I manage my calendar with Microsoft Outlook.
How do you recharge or take a break?
The Caribbean never fails for recharge, even when I bring my work, which I usually do.
Writing what I want to write about under the sun is a joy.
What are you currently reading, or what do you recommend?
I highly recommendThe Person You Mean to Beby Dolly Chugh.
Her encouraging message about how we can overcome bias is what society needs today.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Whats the best advice youve ever received?
Trust in God, and live each day as if it were your last.
Whats a problem youre still trying to solve?
I am interested in [encouraging] authentic self-expression.
I want to help leaders develop rules of engagement that foster mutual respect and professionalism.
This interview has been lightly edited with links added.
