Prof. Anjana Karumathil (Assoc. Prof. of Practice, IIM Kozhikode) on Reinventing Work
- Incremental transition driven by curiosity about systemic workplace issues
- Realization that research and teaching could bridge practical experience with theory
Podcast
Overview
Professor Anjana Karumathil, Associate Professor of Practice at IIM Kozhikode and a renowned expert on the gig economy, joined host Ashutosh Garg on The Brand Called You podcast to share her journey from corporate talent development to academia, and her perspectives on the future of work, organizational behavior, and India’s rapidly evolving gig landscape. Below you’ll find a structured summary with key questions and time-stamped highlights from the episode.
00:01 – What Motivated Prof. Anjana’s Move from Corporate to Academia?
- Incremental transition driven by curiosity about systemic workplace issues
- Realization that research and teaching could bridge practical experience with theory
- Opportunity to be the first Associate Professor of Practice at IIM Kozhikode
00:03 – How Did Working Overseas Shape Her Views on Leadership?
- Exposure to diverse leadership styles in the US, Australia, UK, and Qatar
- Emphasis on context: risk-taking in the US, hierarchy in Qatar, egalitarianism in Australia
- Conclusion: Successful leaders adapt to cultural fabric, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’
00:05 – What Lessons Did She Learn from Prof. Saras Saraswati?
- Importance of asking the right questions, not just having answers
- Perspective-shifting idea: focus on creating the future, not predicting it
- Balance between academic rigor and personal authenticity
00:07 – How Is Organizational Behavior Evolving with AI?
- AI excels at analytics; humans remain essential for empathy, unpredictability, connection
- Emotional intelligence will be a leadership superpower
- Organizational Behavior’s role: ethics, accountability, and keeping algorithms in check
00:09 – Common Misconceptions About the Future of Work?
- Gig economy = ultimate freedom? Reality is more nuanced; insecurity and isolation are real
- AI will fully replace jobs? Actually, it transforms jobs and creates new opportunities
- Importance of equipping youth for a changing landscape; balance tech and human strengths
00:11 – What Competencies Do Employees Need in an AI World?
- Emotional intelligence remains critical
- Critical thinking and creativity gain importance as AI struggles with true innovation
- Value for those who ask bold questions and show curiosity
00:13 – How Should HR Policies Adapt for Flexible and Remote Work?
- Call for outcome-based HR policies focused on results, not hours
- Need for trust, flexibility, and provisions for real human needs in remote settings
- Emphasis on mental health, ergonomic support, and the “right to disconnect”
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Prof Anjana Karumathil: Linkedin
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Profile
- Incremental transition driven by curiosity about systemic workplace issues
- Realization that research and teaching could bridge practical experience with theory
- Opportunity to be the first Associate Professor of Practice at IIM Kozhikode
