What Jobs Can You Get With Behavioral Science

Applications of Behavioral Science in the Workplace

Behavioral science is the study of human behavior, and it can be applied in a variety of workplace settings to improve employee productivity, satisfaction, and safety.

Employee Motivation

• Identify factors that motivate employees
• Develop strategies to increase motivation
• Create incentives and rewards programs

Employee Training and Development

• Determine the best methods for teaching employees
• Create training programs that are engaging and effective
• Evaluate the effectiveness of training programs

Employee Communication

• Understand how employees communicate with each other
• Develop strategies to improve communication
• Create channels for employees to communicate with management

Employee Safety

• Identify factors that contribute to workplace accidents
• Develop strategies to prevent accidents
• Create safety training programs

Employee Stress

• Determine the causes of stress in the workplace
• Develop strategies to reduce stress
• Create a work environment that is supportive and healthy

Career Paths in Behavioral Science: Beyond Economics

Behavioral science, a multidisciplinary field that explores the psychological and cognitive factors that influence human behavior, opens up a wide range of career paths. While behavioral economics is a well-known specialization within the field, there are numerous other areas where behavioral scientists can find rewarding employment.

Consumer Insights and Marketing

• Research consumer behavior and preferences to develop effective marketing strategies
• Design and conduct experiments to test new products and services
• Analyze data to identify consumer trends and targeted advertising campaigns

Human Resources and Management

• Design and implement employee training and development programs
• Evaluate employee performance and provide feedback
• Consult with organizations on improving employee motivation and engagement

Public Policy

• Analyze the impact of behavioral interventions on public health and social welfare
• Design and evaluate public policy initiatives to promote healthy behaviors and reduce risky choices
• Collaborate with policymakers to develop evidence-based solutions to social problems

Healthcare and Medicine

• Develop interventions to improve patient adherence to medical treatments
• Design educational materials and patient support programs
• Conduct research on the psychological factors that influence health outcomes

Education

• Design and implement innovative teaching methods to enhance student learning
• Evaluate educational programs and make recommendations for improvement
• Consult with educators on behavior management strategies and student engagement

Education Requirements

Psychology

Psychology is the scientific study of human behavior and mental processes. Behavioral scientists who specialize in psychology typically have a master’s or doctoral degree in the field, and they may work in a variety of settings, including academia, research institutions, and private practice.

Some of the jobs that you can get with a background in psychology include:

• Clinical psychologist
• Counselor
• Educational psychologist
• Forensic psychologist
• Industrial-organizational psychologist
• Neuropsychologist
• School psychologist
• Sports psychologist

Human Factors in Design

Human factors in design is a field that studies how people interact with products and systems. Behavioral scientists who specialize in this area typically have a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field, such as psychology, engineering, or design.

Some of the jobs that you can get with a background in human factors in design include:

• Ergonomist
• Human factors engineer
• Interaction designer
• Product designer
• User experience (UX) designer

Social Influence and Marketing Strategies

Behavioral science plays a significant role in shaping marketing strategies by understanding how social influence affects consumer behavior.

• Social Proof: Leverage the influence of others by showcasing testimonials, reviews, and social media endorsements to establish credibility and encourage purchases.
• Scarcity and Demand: Create a sense of urgency and desirability by emphasizing limited availability or high demand, prompting consumers to make impulsive decisions.
• Liking and Reciprocity: Build relationships with customers by offering personalized experiences, responding to inquiries, and providing value, fostering a positive brand perception and encouraging repeat purchases.
• Authority and Expertise: Use industry experts, scientific research, or trusted sources to establish brand authority and provide credible information to influence customer decisions.