Cari Rodriguez Pannell
Strategic Business Leader
Human Resources and Organizational Development
Q: What motivated you to pursue a career in Industrial and Organizational Psychology?
A: During my senior year of college, I wasn't entirely certain about committing to Industrial and Organizational Psychology. I opted to take some time to explore my options and gain real-world experience in the workforce. This turned out to be the right decision for me. Working in various professional settings, I witnessed firsthand the importance of organizations investing in their employees and the impact that I/O interventions can have on organizational effectiveness and workplace culture. Seven years later, these insights led to my decision to pursue an I/O graduate program. I found my real real-life experiences brought a valuable perspective to my studies. I was able to connect theoretical concepts with practical applications.
Q: Are there emerging trends or areas of focus within I/O psychology that you find particularly interesting or promising?
A: I/O Psychology places a high value on adaptability, which is now more crucial than ever as the nature of work undergoes transformation. Businesses must adapt their approaches to address the unique challenges and opportunities emerging in these changing work environments. Personally, I am particularly interested in the dynamics of remote and hybrid work, with a focus on developing strategies to enhance virtual team effectiveness and engagement.
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting a career in Industrial and Organizational Psychology?
A: Expertise in I/O Psychology offers a wide range of career opportunities. After earning your graduate degree in I/O, get exposure to various practical applications in the workplace like surveys, assessments, coaching, compensation, performance & talent management, training & development, and human resources. These initial years offer not only a chance to gain diverse experiences but also to discover your areas of passion and interest.