Academic Work
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Practice-based project
Cross-mentoring
As a two-week project, my group and I developed a solution for Mantena focused on retaining experienced employees longer in the workforce. We proposed the introduction of a structured mutual mentoring program that paired newly hired employees with those aged 60 and above. The goal was to facilitate two-way learning, where experienced staff could share valuable knowledge and insights while also gaining new perspectives from younger colleagues. The mentoring groups were designed to meet regularly in a natural work setting, promoting collaboration, inclusion, and continuous development. This initiative aimed to boost motivation, job satisfaction, and engagement, while preserving critical knowledge and strengthening Mantena’s long-term capacity.
Thesis'
Bachelor Thesis
A study of how cultural differences influence communication in international organizations.
Keywords: cross-cultural communication, cultural dimensions, feedback, language barriers, international collaboration
If you’d like to read a more in-depth summary, please see the “Read more” section beneath
In an increasingly globalized working world, cultural differences have become a natural part of everyday collaboration. The bachelor thesis took a closer look at how such differences affect communication and efficiency within international organizations. The work was based on the idea that people from different cultural backgrounds often bring with them varying expectations, norms, and ways of interacting — factors that can both enrich and complicate workplace dynamics. Rather than focusing on culture in general, the study concentrated on concrete experiences of employees in a multicultural company setting. Particular attention was given to how people from Southeast Asian and Western backgrounds perceive and handle situations such as giving feedback, sharing ideas, and interpreting informal communication. These themes were explored using well-established theories on cultural dimensions and communication styles. The data, collected through qualitative interviews, revealed that misunderstandings often stemmed from differences in how direct people were expected to be, how hierarchy was viewed, and how comfortable individuals felt expressing disagreement. In several cases, this led to duplicated work, hesitation to speak up, and missed opportunities for collaboration. However, cultural differences also sparked new insights and learning when space was given for reflection and mutual understanding. As a conclusion, the study underscored the importance of fostering a shared communication culture in diverse teams. Simple actions such as informal dialogue between key people and adapting feedback methods to suit the team’s cultural mix were found to be helpful. The overall takeaway was that with the right awareness and tools, cultural diversity can shift from being a challenge to becoming a strength in international collaboration.
Master Thesis
An exploration of how workplace conflict affects employees' psychological safety.
Keywords: conflict, psychological safety, emotional well-being, work environment, leadership behavior, qualitative insights
If you’d like to read a more in-depth summary, please see the “Read more” section beneath
The master thesis focused on understanding how workplace conflict can influence employees' sense of psychological safety. Conflicts are a natural part of organizational life and can emerge from many sources, including differences in goals, values, communication styles, or competition over limited resources. While conflict is not inherently negative, it can have serious consequences for individuals and teams if not managed well. The aim of the thesis was to explore how conflict affects the individual’s subjective experience of psychological safety at work, and what factors contribute to whether a conflict escalates or is resolved constructively. To explore this, the study looked at different types of conflict and their underlying causes, and examined how people responded to them. Psychological safety, which refers to the feeling of being able to express oneself without fear of negative consequences, was a central concept throughout the work. This sense of safety is closely linked to positive workplace outcomes such as engagement, job satisfaction, learning, and innovation. By analysing interview data from two individuals with experience of conflict at work, the study found that the impact of conflict on psychological safety varies between people. Some experienced a significant decline in trust and openness, while others managed to maintain a sense of safety depending on how the situation was handled. The findings highlighted that personal differences, leadership behaviour, and the organizational environment all play a role in shaping how conflict is experienced and how it affects psychological well-being. Overall, the thesis emphasized the importance of early intervention, emotional awareness, and active conflict management. It also pointed to the need for leaders to foster a culture where employees feel heard and respected, even during difficult situations. Although the study was small in scale, it offered valuable insights into the complex relationship between interpersonal conflict and psychological safety in the workplace.
Selected Academic Work
A diverse selection of academic assignments written in English or Norwegian, covering topics such as artificial intelligence in HR, HR analytics, and organisational behaviour.
AIR 2101
Exam in AI, Robotics and HR Tech
Written in Norwegian
In this assignment I explore how AI can be used in learning and organisational development, with emphasis on ethical reflection and responsible application. I created a gamified e-learning course using Wittario, developed a tailored ChatGPT assistant for business case support, and reflected on key success factors for implementing an HCM system. The assignment also discusses HR’s role in ensuring ethical and people-centered use of technology in the workplace.
HRA 3100
Exam in HR Analytics and Business Development.
Written in Norwegian
In this assignment I am using HR analytics to identify factors behind low billing rates and sick leave in a fictional law firm. Includes data analysis, cost estimation and strategic HR recommendations.
GRA 2205
Group Exam in Organisational Behaviour
Written in English
This case-based assignment explores the issue of high employee turnover in a customer service department. Using organisational behaviour theories such as intrinsic motivation, work design, and the Job Characteristics Model, we analysed underlying causes related to low job satisfaction and poor task structure. The paper outlines targeted actions and an implementation plan to improve motivation, increase autonomy, and reduce turnover.