Katherine Joiner
Research Mentor(s): Elizabeth Trinh
Mentor Department: Management and Organizations
Authors:
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Presentation Type: Poster 61
Abstract
This study aims to examine how executive leaders across various industries perceive and engage with the concept of “busyness†in their professional lives. More specifically, it explores how busyness functions in their daily routines, its perceived advantages and drawbacks, and its distinction from productivity. In order to do so, we conducted eight in-depth interviews (thirty to forty minutes each) with executive leaders from retail, food, and health & wellness industries—including seven Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) and one franchise owner—this research successfully captures qualitative insights into leadership habits, shifting professional beliefs, and strategies for maintaining work-life balance. While I found that definitions and applications of busyness varied among my study participants, one unanimous theme emerged: being busy does not necessarily equate to being productive. Each leader emphasized the importance of prioritization, deliberate decision-making, eliminating inefficiencies, and balancing professional and personal priorities. Beyond busyness, the study also examined leadership philosophies that executives once adhered to but later rejected, the motivations that drive their daily work, how they best keep their team motivated in times of stress, and the personal attributes they consider most instrumental to their success. Our broader research team is currently analyzing the recorded interviews and categorizing insights into key themes related to leadership effectiveness, organizational dynamics, and workplace efficiency. As a part of a larger initiative to gather insights on leadership hierarchies and business restructuring, this study aims to inform pro-bono consulting efforts by providing actionable strategies for improving workplace environments, employee motivation, and business structures. Through this analysis, we ultimately seek to help organizations develop more effective leadership models and business practices.
