Finding a Meaningful Career Using Organizational Behavior Management

Introduction

Finding a fulfilling career can be challenging, especially for professionals in Organizational Behavior Management (OBM). OBM, a subfield of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), applies behavioral principles to improve workplace performance, safety, training, and other business processes.

This article is based on the research of Nicole Gravina, Allison King, and Byron Wine, published in Behavior Analysis in Practice (2024). Their work provides key strategies for behavior analysts looking to apply OBM in various industries.

This post will help you:

• Understand what OBM is and how it applies to different workplaces
• Identify career opportunities in OBM
• Gain relevant experience and communicate your expertise
• Set realistic expectations for career advancement

What Is Organizational Behavior Management (OBM)?

Organizational Behavior Management (OBM) focuses on using behavior science to improve workplace efficiency and employee performance. It applies reinforcement strategies, data collection, and process improvements to industries such as:

• Healthcare – Enhancing patient safety and staff performance
• Education – Implementing behavior-based training for teachers
• Manufacturing – Improving productivity and workplace safety
• Government – Streamlining processes and increasing efficiency
• Retail – Boosting customer service and operational effectiveness
• Aviation – Enhancing safety procedures and compliance
• Banking – Improving employee performance and training in financial services
• Human Services – Supporting staff in social services and caregiving fields

Many companies use OBM principles without advertising OBM-specific roles, making it essential to recognize key job titles and opportunities.

Career Considerations in OBM

1. Identify and Narrow Your Interests

OBM roles are often embedded in broader job titles. When searching for jobs, consider roles like:

• Performance Improvement Specialist
• Learning & Development Manager
• Talent Analytics Consultant
• Process Optimization Specialist
• Leadership Development Coach

To explore OBM career paths, try:

• Internships – Gain direct experience in business settings
• Research Projects – Apply OBM concepts to workplace challenges
• Job Shadowing – Observe professionals in different industries
• Networking – Connect with experts at conferences and workshops
• Job Market Research – Use websites like O*NET to explore job descriptions

2. Gain Experience

Direct experience in OBM can set you apart from other applicants. Since many behavior analysts transition from clinical roles, gaining exposure to business and management environments is crucial.

Ways to build OBM experience include:

• Internships – Work in human resources, corporate training, or consulting
• Consulting for Small Businesses – Apply OBM principles to real-world problems
• Research Projects – Develop studies in industries beyond clinical behavior analysis
• Professional Development – Take OBM-specific courses or certifications
• Implementing Process Improvements – Apply OBM strategies in your current job, even if it’s outside OBM

3. Communicate Your Experience Effectively

Many hiring managers are unfamiliar with behavior analysis terminology, making it important to translate your experience into recognizable business language.

To do this:

• Use industry-specific terms – Replace "motivating operation" with "performance factor"
• Optimize your resume for hiring systems – Use tools like resume scanners to ensure relevant keywords are included
• Choose the right resume format – A functional resume can highlight transferable skills for those transitioning from clinical ABA to OBM

When explaining OBM in interviews, use mainstream business terms. Instead of discussing reinforcement schedules, describe improving employee engagement and productivity.

4. Right-Size Your Expectations

Switching to OBM may require starting in an entry-level role before progressing. Many professionals move into OBM from clinical behavior analysis, human resources, or training roles.

Key strategies for career growth include:

• Taking transitional roles – A position in HR, performance management, or corporate training can serve as a stepping stone
• Being flexible in job location – Some industries and companies offer better OBM opportunities than others
• Setting realistic timelines – It may take a few years to establish yourself in OBM before advancing into leadership roles

Real-world examples from OBM professionals show that persistence, networking, and building the right experience are essential to long-term success.

Career Paths in OBM

1. Academia and Research

For those interested in teaching and research, pursuing a PhD can open doors in academia. Common roles include:

• Professors – Teaching, publishing, and supervising students in OBM programs
• Research Scientists – Conducting studies in workplace behavior and training methods

2. Consulting and Corporate Roles

Many OBM professionals work in corporate environments or as independent consultants. Roles in this area include:

• Independent OBM Consultants – Assisting companies with workplace behavior improvements
• Corporate Training Specialists – Developing and implementing behavior-based training programs
• Process Improvement Managers – Using OBM strategies to enhance business operations

3. Human Resources and Talent Development

HR roles are a great fit for OBM professionals, as they focus on employee performance and training. Common positions include:

• Learning & Development Managers – Designing training programs based on behavior principles
• Performance Analysts – Evaluating workplace efficiency using behavioral data
• Employee Engagement Specialists – Implementing strategies to enhance motivation and job satisfaction

Conclusion

A career in Organizational Behavior Management offers diverse opportunities, from corporate consulting and HR to research and workplace training. By:

1. Identifying your career interests and possible job titles
2. Gaining relevant hands-on experience
3. Effectively communicating your skills using business language
4. Setting realistic expectations for career growth

…you can successfully transition into OBM and build a meaningful career.

For a deeper dive into OBM career strategies, refer to the research by Nicole Gravina, Allison King, and Byron Wine in Behavior Analysis in Practice (2024). Read the full article here: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00871-4.