Member Spotlight: Lucia Nkem

Name
Lucia Nkem

Position/Employer
PhD candidate in Business Psychology-Consulting at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, project associate at AmeriSourceBergen

How long have you been a SIOP member?
I have been with SIOP since September 2022.

What roles have you had within SIOP?
I am currently serving as a Trend Champion with the Visibility Committee.

Interest area(s)
Talent assessment, selection/recruitment, psychometrics, behavioral science, and performance

What sparked your interest in I-O psychology?
During my master’s program, I was a committee chair for the Multicultural and Diversity Department. I had the opportunity to recruit international students into the university through coordinating monthly activities and programs that helped students learn more about the community. I learned to work with different students from diverse backgrounds. Moreover, I learned the importance of inclusion through advocating for educational resources through proposal and grant writing, which was very rewarding.

What role do you see I-O psychology playing in the future of work?
With the growing change and shift in workplace dynamics, more I-O psychologists are needed. The diverse skills I-O psychologists bring into any industry can leverage the discipline. I would love to see I-O psychology growth in STEM-related industries addressing practicality of science and technology in workplace solutions.

Which of the Top 10 Work Trends for 2023 do you most strongly relate to and how can I-O psychology practitioners, educators, and students impact this trend?
The Top 10 Work Trend that relates to me the most is Work Trend #2. This trend relates with me a lot because it sheds awareness into the best practice for managing a hybrid workforce. I think this trend can resonate with others as it provides practical solutions and recommendations through evidence-based research of current workplace challenges.

What advice would you give to students or early practitioners?
Expand your horizon and network. Challenge yourself to take more voluntary roles, which can help strengthen personal and professional developments. Remember to embrace your "personality" because that is your solution to setting you apart from others.

Please share one non-I-O-related bit of information about yourself.
I am a full-time social justice crusader, lifestyle blogger, and an international politics fanatic.

Is there anything you would like to add?
I-O is a rewarding discipline with so many opportunities to grow. Having a diverse experience with various skill sets will set you apart from others. I am very impressed with the zealous expertise of I-O practitioners.

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