Why you become like your boss I Group Adaption Effect

Why do teams start to mirror the tone, pace, and even emotional climate of their leader? And why do we so often adapt—consciously or not—to fit into the group we're part of?

In this episode, Martin Wolf and Dr. Verena Seibert-Giller unpack the psychological principle of social conformity and emotional contagion—two key forces that drive our need to blend in and match the behavior of those around us, especially in workplace hierarchies.

Together, they explore:

– Why we unconsciously copy the behavior and emotional tone of our boss

– How group belonging impacts performance, morale, and personal identity

– What leaders unknowingly transfer to their teams through tone and attitude

– How to consciously use this effect to fit into new teams or positively shape their culture

Whether you're a team member trying to find your place or a leader looking to set the right tone, this episode reveals how group psychology quietly drives everyday business dynamics—and how you can influence it with intention.