All of the assumptions in our Common Sense Quiz may seem fairly elementary. Actually, each statement is based upon a well-tested psychological principle, like Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, the Yerkes-Dodson law, psychology’s law of effect, the Hawthorne effect, Herzberg’s two-factor theory, and even a few well-tested hypotheses of our own. But, don’t let the names intimidate you. These are simple, verifiable ideas — the kind of assumptions you make every day about the people you supervise.

Each of these concepts is an example of what we call TESTED COMMON SENSE, assumptions made about human nature that have been empirically verified through psychological research or through actual application in the “real world” of the workplace.

Unfortunately, many leaders underestimate the effectiveness of common sense as they face the host of threatening issues in today’s business environment. Instead, many grasp at “the next big idea,” some new formula for success that seems more contemporary or novel. More often than not, though, these management fads and gimmicks quickly pass from the scene after being in vogue only briefly. But, common sense is more permanent, and will help you deal with people issues today, tomorrow, next year . . . no matter what changes lie ahead.

We encourage you to trust your common sense and pay heed to it when making leadership decisions. Most of what you know about human behavior comes from the “basic psychology” that you have assimilated through your experiences in life. As a leader, your common sense can help you make sound judgments about the likely impact of your decisions and actions, as well as help you anticipate how others will react to them.