The hottest Work Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Business Topics

How much agency do we actually want?

benn.substack • 1585 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Work Culture Productivity Career development Human behavior
  1. Many people want clear directions to reach their goals rather than complete freedom to decide everything on their own. It's sometimes easier to follow a checklist than to choose your own path.
  2. In the tech world, even highly skilled professionals often seek specific instructions on what to do next, rather than relying solely on their creativity and initiative.
  3. While we talk about wanting more agency and independence, many of us really just want someone to give us a roadmap for success, even if it means giving up some of our freedom.

Part 2: Our Collective Order-Keeping Fictions

Holly’s Newsletter • 1071 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
💼 Business Work Culture Management Corporate strategy Data Privacy Technology Trends
  1. Many companies hire foreign workers, and there is a concerning lack of effective management. This is often due to too many people being in roles that don’t have real value.
  2. It’s scary how much bad coding exists, especially from those who think they’re experts but actually know very little. This can lead to bigger problems in tech environments.
  3. Data security is often not as strong as companies claim, and relying on tools like AI without proper coding knowledge can make things worse for everyone.

TBM 360: "Wait! I Thought the Team Was Overloaded?!"

The Beautiful Mess • 383 implied HN points • 30 May 25
💼 Business Management Leadership Work Culture Team Dynamics Productivity
  1. Teams often feel overwhelmed with too much work, but managers might deny there's a problem. It's important to listen to the team on the front lines.
  2. Sometimes, leaders want to cut down on projects, but managers are afraid to suggest it due to fear of losing resources. Clear and honest conversations can help break this cycle.
  3. If there are too many options with no clear priority, it's necessary to focus on one important goal at a time. This helps to reduce confusion and improves team effectiveness.

I Do Nothing at Work and No One Seems To Notice or Care

antoniomelonio • 987 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture Employee engagement Job Satisfaction Mental health
  1. Many white-collar workers feel like they do little to no meaningful work, even though they get paid well. This creates a sense of guilt when they see others, like manual laborers, working hard for less pay.
  2. Jobs often seem pointless, defined by layers of bureaucracy and processes that don’t truly serve people. This leads to feelings of alienation and boredom for many in those roles.
  3. There’s a growing concern about the future of work with the rise of AI. Many jobs may become obsolete, raising questions about how society will adapt and what meaningful work will look like.

Why True Friendship is Built on Unconditional Kindness

The Profile • 277 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
💼 Business Leadership Entrepreneurship Corporate strategy Work Culture Economic Trends
  1. Kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. Small acts of kindness can create lasting memories and connections.
  2. People often remember those who showed them genuine kindness over time. It's those warm moments that stand out in our hearts.
  3. Choosing kindness in tough situations is rare but important. It can help people feel seen and supported when they need it the most.
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Work sucks, I know

Philosophy bear • 436 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Work Culture Economy Meritocracy Job Market
  1. Being clever doesn't guarantee a good job. Even smart people might struggle to find satisfying work.
  2. There are many reasons why people don't get the jobs they want, like luck and bad hiring practices. It's not always fair.
  3. To improve the work situation, we need to focus on making jobs better for everyone, not just competing for top positions.

So you want to be a pirate, eh matey?

Jeff Giesea • 558 implied HN points • 14 Aug 24
💼 Business Employment Work Culture Remote work Gig Economy Career development
  1. Job-stacking is when people hold multiple full-time remote jobs at the same time, mainly in tech fields. Some think it's unethical because it can trick employers.
  2. Supporters argue job-stacking is okay as long as people do their jobs well and there are no secret issues. They feel the current job market is unreliable, so they find new ways to cope.
  3. The job landscape is changing, and job-stacking could be a sign that we need new work models. While not for everyone, it might push us to think differently about employment.

What Is Being An Engineering Manager Like

Diary of an Engineering Manager • 119 implied HN points • 05 Sep 24
💼 Business Management Leadership Teamwork Career development Work Culture
  1. An engineering manager's role is more about teamwork than just giving orders. It's important to work together and support each other.
  2. The manager's job is like being a driver on a road trip. They navigate and ensure everyone is comfortable and safe along the journey.
  3. Being an engineering manager doesn't mean being smarter than everyone else. It means having different responsibilities while being part of the team.

The Future Fits on One Page.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 72 implied HN points • 25 May 25
💼 Business Leadership Change Management Marketing Personal Development Future Trends Work Culture
  1. The future is shaped by change, and we need to adapt our thinking to keep up. It's important to let go of old ways that may limit our growth.
  2. Learning is an ongoing process, and we should always strive to upgrade our skills and knowledge. This helps us stay relevant in a fast-changing world.
  3. Creating strong and positive relationships is key. Treating others with kindness and generosity can lead to better teamwork and success.

TBM 339: Update and Clarifications

The Beautiful Mess • 978 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
💼 Business Startups Entrepreneurship Investment Product Management Work Culture
  1. This newsletter is independent of the author's employer, Dotwork, and he writes what he chooses without being paid for it.
  2. Dotwork is a startup that creates tools for product strategy and development, allowing teams to customize their work tools to fit their needs.
  3. The author enjoys sharing what he learns each week and believes in giving valuable content for free, trusting that good things will come back in the future.

TBM 330: (Un)common Sense Playbook

The Beautiful Mess • 1163 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
💼 Business Management Leadership Team Dynamics Work Culture Organizational Behavior
  1. Getting to know your team is really important. When managers understand their team members, it helps everyone work better together.
  2. Clear communication about goals and priorities helps keep the team focused. It’s better to do a few things really well than to try and do too much at once.
  3. Sometimes, the environment can hold back good management practices. Creating a supportive atmosphere makes it easier for common sense leadership to succeed.

TBM 321: "Reducing Complexity"

The Beautiful Mess • 1480 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
💼 Business Management Leadership Productivity Work Culture Organizational Behavior
  1. Product work is naturally complex because it involves many changing factors and teamwork among different groups. This complexity isn't bad; it's just part of making meaningful products.
  2. A company operates as a complex system influenced by habits, processes, and people. This can lead to mismanagement and stress when priorities clash and workloads become heavy.
  3. Leaders should not try to simplify the work itself but instead create an environment where teams can handle their complexity efficiently. Reducing friction and improving communication can help people do better work together.

What I Gave Up To Become An Engineering Manager

Diary of an Engineering Manager • 62 HN points • 29 Aug 24
💼 Business Management Leadership Career development Work Culture Team Dynamics
  1. Moving from individual contributor to engineering manager means letting go of past habits. You need to make room for new responsibilities and ways of working.
  2. As a manager, you won't build things directly. Instead, you'll help your team create and support multiple projects, shifting focus from personal achievements to team successes.
  3. Managers face longer feedback loops and must learn to communicate tough issues early on. This shift encourages patience and improves team dynamics.

Culture as a Driver of Success (or Failure)

peoplefirstengineering • 14 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Work Culture Organizational Behavior Team Dynamics Leadership
  1. Workplace culture is complex and hard to define, but it affects how we feel and perform at work. Everyone experiences it differently based on their individual stories.
  2. Culture is built through the interactions of team members and can change over time. It’s not something that can be easily controlled or fixed with a simple solution.
  3. Everyone at work plays a role in shaping the culture. By being aware of our behaviors and choices, we can create a positive environment together.

What happens if mass unemployment never arrives

State of the Future • 126 implied HN points • 05 Mar 25
💼 Business Employment Automation Work Culture Economic Impact Technology Trends
  1. Mass unemployment might not happen, but instead, we may see job roles that are less meaningful or filled with busywork. This could lead to people being employed without feeling fulfilled.
  2. The speed of AI's impact on jobs is much faster than previous technologies. Workers may struggle to adapt since the transitions that used to take generations are now happening in just a few years.
  3. People might still need jobs for their sense of identity and purpose, even if those jobs are not necessary for the economy. Finding meaning in work could become a bigger issue than just having a job or not.

5 Ways To Say No, Elegantly and Effectively

Push to Prod • 19 implied HN points • 04 Sep 24
💼 Business Work Culture Communication Productivity Leadership Career development
  1. It's important to set boundaries and learn to say no to extra work or distractions. This can help you stay focused on your own goals.
  2. Using clear and direct phrases when saying no can make it easier for others to understand your limits. This helps avoid long discussions about why you can't help.
  3. Saying no doesn’t make you a bad teammate. It's about prioritizing your tasks to be more effective and contributing to your own success.

My work-life under threat by Amazon’s return-to-office mandate

Sheep Code • 67 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture Corporate Policy Employee Relations Remote work Career development
  1. Amazon announced that employees must return to the office five days a week, ending the hybrid work model. This change caused a lot of stress and uncertainty for many workers who had enjoyed remote work.
  2. The move to return to office signals bigger trends in the industry, with other companies likely following Amazon's lead. Many believe this decision might push talented employees to look for jobs elsewhere, but Amazon might prioritize diligent workers over talent.
  3. For those still working remotely at Amazon, it's important to plan ahead. If you want to stay in your role but can’t relocate, it's wise to think about your next steps and prepare for potential changes in your job situation.

The opportunity to rehumanise work

Make Work Better • 174 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture AI Impact Remote work Employee Wellbeing
  1. More companies are exploring shorter work weeks, like a four-day work week, to improve employee satisfaction. This trend shows that businesses are starting to value work-life balance.
  2. Younger workers are more hopeful about using AI in the workplace, seeing it as a chance to enhance their skills and job prospects. In contrast, older workers often feel anxious about changes brought by technology.
  3. Organizations have the chance to create a better work culture by focusing on human and memorable aspects of their service. This shift could lead to happier employees and customers alike.

Spotify Technology Career Steps

It Depends / Nimble Autonomy • 19 implied HN points • 25 Aug 24
🕹 Technology Career development Work Culture Human Resources Professional Growth Corporate Structure
  1. At Spotify, career growth is flexible and based on your interests. You can explore different roles and skills without being stuck on a strict path.
  2. Career steps at Spotify focus on teamwork and impact. Employees are encouraged to prioritize team success and think about how their work affects the business.
  3. Promotions at Spotify depend on consistently showing a higher level of impact and behavior. They aren't tied to a specific timeline, so discussions with managers are key.

The curse of conscientiousness

Optima & Outliers • 219 implied HN points • 04 Apr 24
💼 Business Career development Work Culture Self-help Psychology Professional Growth
  1. Being very organized and responsible can sometimes be a hindrance, especially if it makes you stick to a job that isn't right for you. It's important to know when to quit and move on.
  2. Young people should be open to exploring different jobs instead of sticking to one path just because it's familiar. Trying new roles can lead to greater happiness and success.
  3. It's better to think of your career like a scientist experiments: test a job for a while and see if it fits you. If not, don't feel bad about quitting and finding something that works better.

The Libertarian Coder

Rethinking Software • 249 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Software Development Programming Collaboration Work Culture Autonomy
  1. Working independently can be very rewarding, especially in coding. Some people thrive when they have control over their own projects and can focus deeply.
  2. There are different styles of collaboration in coding. Some prefer to share work with many people, while others like to work alone. Both ways can be valid and effective, depending on the person's preference.
  3. When you feel stuck at work, it's often not just your fault. It shows there might not be enough teamwork or communication. Asking lots of questions can help everyone succeed together.

4 lessons I learned giving 2 million to small businesses

Kenny’s Sub • 259 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Small business Grants Funding Work Culture
  1. People often feel too scared to ask for what they want, but pushing through that fear can lead to success. It's important to be respectful when following up and seek solutions when faced with a 'no.'
  2. Making mistakes is a part of learning and won't ruin a business if there’s a solid financial backup. It's wise for businesses to have enough savings to cover expenses in tough times.
  3. Prioritizing getting actual customers is more important than focusing on future revenue hopes. It's better to earn money now than gamble on uncertain future profits.

Founder Mode: Elevating Individual Contributors

Rethinking Software • 249 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
💼 Business Management Leadership Work Culture Entrepreneurship Organizational Behavior
  1. Founder mode empowers individual contributors by reducing management interference. It allows them to work freely, focusing on their tasks without being micromanaged.
  2. Good founders support and trust their teams instead of controlling them. They believe in hiring smart people and letting them decide how to do their jobs.
  3. Too many managers can create a bloated, inefficient system. Founder mode prevents this by maintaining a lean structure where everyone can contribute effectively.

crying in the coworking space that is our lives

Both Are True • 195 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Personal narrative Social Commentary Emotional Wellness Work Culture Friendship
  1. It's normal to feel overwhelmed and sweaty during busy days, especially when juggling multiple responsibilities. Everyone has those moments of stress and anxiety.
  2. Talking to friends about your feelings can lead to emotional moments, and that's okay. Connecting over shared struggles can help lighten the load.
  3. It's important to embrace vulnerability and share personal stories, even if people sometimes criticize them. Those moments of honesty are what create real connections.

Your Career Is Stuck Because You’re a Doer, Not an Owner

The Software Engineering Times • 4 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
💼 Business Career growth Mindset Leadership Professional development Work Culture
  1. Stop just doing tasks; think like an owner who cares about the bigger picture. Focus on how your work impacts the company, not just on finishing assignments.
  2. To grow in your career, take initiative and ask questions. Don't wait for someone to tell you what to do; look for problems and suggest solutions.
  3. People who want promotions are those who act like owners. They show leadership by thinking about outcomes and how to improve things, not just completing tasks.

Resisting the Enshittification of Work

Make Work Better • 157 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture Productivity Leadership Trends Employee Wellbeing
  1. Enshittification is when a service becomes worse over time due to profit-focused changes, just like users notice on platforms like Google and Amazon.
  2. Many workers are feeling burnt out and overwhelmed by constant notifications and meetings, leading to a lack of satisfaction at work.
  3. Leaders need to actively improve workplace culture to combat this decline and make work a source of meaning instead of stress.

The value of grunge work

Wednesday Wisdom • 113 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Software Development Agile Methodology Tech Debt Work Culture Engineering Practices
  1. Tech debt happens when we make bad decisions in software development. It can pile up, making fixing problems a big task for teams.
  2. Doing hands-on work, or 'grunge work,' helps deepen understanding of the tech systems. It’s crucial for maintaining and improving technology.
  3. To tackle tech debt effectively, it should be part of official job expectations. This way, everyone contributes and helps keep things running smoothly.

Is the market really saturated?

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Freelancing Economics Personal Development Work Culture
  1. Blaming external factors for challenges is just a way to avoid taking responsibility. It's important to focus on what you can control to improve your situation.
  2. The difference between blame and responsibility matters a lot. Instead of making excuses about the economy or competition, focus on the steps you can take to move forward.
  3. A positive mindset and determination can help you overcome tough circumstances. Hard work and grit can lead to success, even when the odds seem against you.

Wanna career? Move to the center!

Wednesday Wisdom • 132 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
💼 Business Career Advice Corporate strategy Work Culture Employee Development Remote work
  1. To boost your career, it's often best to move to the 'center' of power in a company. The best projects and biggest opportunities usually happen there.
  2. Being on the 'periphery' can lead to a satisfying career, but you may miss out on important projects and promotions. It might feel tough to get noticed from the outside.
  3. While working at the center can bring many advantages, it's important to choose what matters most to you. Sometimes a good quality of life is worth more than climbing the corporate ladder.

RTO's Dead Cat Bounce

Make Work Better • 98 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture Management Employee engagement Technology Adoption
  1. Many companies that push for office returns are being seen as out of touch, as employees are leaving in response to strict policies.
  2. New AI tools are emerging to help manage work, making it easier for people to keep up with meetings without attending them all.
  3. Investing in employee training and culture is key for business success, and companies need to adapt to modern work-life demands to thrive.

Think like a Plumber, not a CEO | LSW#58

The Leading Sapiens Weekly • 40 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture Productivity Leadership Creativity Mindset
  1. Knowledge work shouldn't just rely on inspiration or perfect conditions. Showing up consistently, like a plumber, leads to real progress.
  2. Instead of waiting for creativity to strike, focus on making a routine and setting clear goals. This structure helps reduce stress and improves productivity.
  3. It's important to value practice and effort over perfection. Producing more often can actually improve the quality of your work over time.

Soft is the New Hard.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 72 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
💼 Business Leadership Work Culture Strategic Thinking Personal Development Human behavior
  1. Grace means being kind and humble to others, understanding that success comes from many factors, not just hard work. It's about caring for people's feelings and respecting their experiences.
  2. Flow happens when you are fully engaged in something challenging but enjoyable. It brings joy and can come from creating, learning, or helping others grow.
  3. Connection is crucial for happiness. Building strong relationships and having a purpose can improve your life, helping you feel more fulfilled and supported.

We don't feel ready for what comes next at work

Make Work Better • 141 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture AI Impact
  1. Many workers today feel unprepared and untrained for their jobs, especially with new tools like AI. There’s a noticeable dip in how well people collaborate at work.
  2. New hires often come in with fewer skills and less confidence. Things like eye contact and proper dressing seem to be common challenges for recent graduates.
  3. Training is really important. Companies need to focus on teaching employees how to use new technologies effectively so they can perform better and feel more engaged.

Why Do You Work?

David Spinks' Newsletter • 44 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture Career growth Entrepreneurship Mental health Personal Development
  1. Success can feel like a mountain made of layers, built from our experiences and beliefs about love and acceptance. Many people work hard because they feel they have to earn their worth.
  2. Realizing that you are already enough can be a powerful shift. It allows you to stop chasing external validation and allows a more authentic relationship with work.
  3. Working should bring you life and joy, not just security or status. It's important to focus on what truly fulfills you and aligns with your values.

The 5 intensity zones of software teams

Leading Developers • 59 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
💼 Business Management Team Dynamics Productivity Work Culture Employee Wellbeing
  1. Software teams can operate in different 'intensity zones' ranging from very light to maximum effort. Understanding these zones helps managers know when their team can relax or when they need to ramp up work.
  2. Switching between intensity zones is important for a team's success and well-being. It's crucial to have a balance and prepare the team for high-pressure times while also allowing them to unwind afterward.
  3. Effective 'intensity management' is key to keeping a team adaptable and preventing burnout. Setting clear expectations about workload and work intensity helps everyone understand what to expect.

Office Armageddon

Diane Francis • 639 implied HN points • 30 Mar 23
💼 Business Real Estate Urban planning Finance Work Culture Government Policy
  1. Many big city offices are empty now because a lot of people are working from home. This change is hurting banks and city budgets as tax revenues drop.
  2. Cities are losing population for the first time in decades, which is causing more vacant shops and offices. This could lead to financial trouble for local governments.
  3. Turning empty office buildings into homes could be a solution, but it’s complicated and expensive. Cities need to rethink their spaces and invest in community facilities to attract people back.

The Work Identity Paradox will change our jobs

Make Work Better • 65 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture Identity AI Impact Employee engagement
  1. Many people see their jobs as part of who they are. Losing a job can feel like losing a piece of your identity.
  2. As jobs become more unstable due to technology and AI, our sense of identity tied to work may also change. We need to adapt to this shifting landscape.
  3. Future workplaces will need to focus more on helping employees grow as individuals, rather than just what they do. It's about becoming the best version of ourselves.

AI, Spud Club and the future of work

Make Work Better • 98 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture Technology Adoption AI Trends Employee engagement Future of work
  1. Many workers feel lost about how their companies plan to use AI technology. This gap is leading to uncertainty as AI becomes more integrated into workplaces.
  2. There's been a rise in innovative team-building activities like 'Spud Club,' showing that simple, affordable lunches can create strong team connections and improve workplace culture.
  3. The future of work will focus on the human element, emphasizing teamwork and personal connections, even as technology advances.