Focus on the growing importance of embedding anthropologists in workplace teams to provide critical cultural insights that enhance human-centered, effective, and equitable workplace strategies

Author: Melissa Fisher, Ph.D.

Abstract

Cultural anthropologists, once perceived as solely focused on distant societies, are increasingly integrated into workplace strategy teams. In this article, Melissa Fisher draws on her decades of experience as an academic and consultant to show how anthropologists bring vital cultural insight to the design and operation of modern workplaces.

Using an anonymised case study drawing on several decades of research working with global real estate and financial services firms, Fisher illustrates how ethnographic methods complement quantitative data, offering a nuanced understanding of why employees act as they do. Her analysis focuses on gender dynamics, hybrid work, and organisational culture, demonstrating the value of anthropology in uncovering hidden behaviours, informal rules, and deep-seated workplace values.

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