1. Max has a degree in environmental engineering. All of his friends are in related fields and they all have a passion for creating meaningful green solutions for big companies. He recently got his dream job at an emerging renewable energy company. Being environmentally responsible is a huge part of Max's identity and this drives most of his work decisions. Within his new role Max has been assigned to a division that finds ways to manufacture products for a low cost. His boss seems ok, but his goals are now set around cost cutting and shareholder outcomes. He's using his skills but is extremely unhappy. He feels weird around his friends, and often avoids talking about work. He doesn't feel he is growing in this role and is considering leaving. Max's boss sees this and is nervous. He can't lose his top new hire. What's going on here and how can Max's boss keep his employee while also making him happy?

2. Dane, our electrician, has figured some things out and his company has been running smoothly. However, recent events (e.g., new competitors, economic downturns) have put him in a situation where he must layoff some of his staff. Dan knows that layoffs are a major negative event for those who are laid off AND those who remain in the company. He is worried that the remaining employees may turn against him or slack off in response to this decision. Knowing what you know about motivation and negative events how can Dane best proceed?

3. Brian runs a pizza place that is booming! However, he has realized his food costs are way higher than they should be based off sales. With a little digging around, he has realized there is a lot of theft going on. People are giving away free food and, in some cases, taking cash straight from the till. There clearly is an expectation that stealing will be tolerated. Brian is a good boss and his employees like him - he's confused why they would be motivated towards this behavior. He knows you are an expert in how expectations influence motion so he call for help. What do you do?

4. Brad runs a data analytics company that employs high-level computer science majors. The day to days tasks of his employees involve hours of code writing and report building. Brad usually hires young programmers from the best university, but also has a large group of senior analysts that are integral to his business functioning. This older group has vast experience with the overall industry and understanding of how to deal with tough issues. However, recently Brad has experienced a wave of early retirement from this senior group. He is scared because he can't afford to lose all that knowledge. Help Brad develop a plan to keep his older workers engaged and working while also meeting company objectives.