The hottest Work Culture Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Business Topics

Productivity theater is hard to kill

Public Universal Friend • 2 HN points • 03 Sep 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Many workers spend a lot of time showing they're busy instead of focusing on real results. This 'productivity theater' makes work feel less meaningful.
  2. Using knowledge management systems can help improve teamwork, but they often lead to clutter and repetition instead. This makes it hard for teams to find useful information.
  3. It's important for companies to focus on the impact of work rather than just the effort put in. Trusting employees can lead to better performance and less stress.

crying in the coworking space that is our lives

Both Are True • 195 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Work Culture
  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.

Have you experienced the Gen Z stare?

Make Work Better • 54 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Young workers today are attending social events less than their peers did two decades ago. Companies may need to think creatively about team bonding activities.
  2. Mixing IT and HR can help companies design better work environments. This approach can lead to using technology smartly and improving team structures.
  3. The Gen Z stare, a confused look at outdated ideas, shows a generational gap in workplace perspectives. It highlights how younger employees view certain workplace practices as unhelpful.

F**k personal branding

inexactscience • 79 implied HN points • 13 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Work Culture
  1. Personal branding is often about looking busy, not actually doing good work. It turns everything into a competition for attention rather than focusing on the work itself.
  2. Being authentic should not feel like branding. If you're just being yourself, that's not branding; it's living.
  3. Having a personal brand can be important for some people, but not everyone needs one. We should celebrate real work and not just the image people project online.

Bare Existence

Castalia • 179 implied HN points • 30 Apr 23
📖 Philosophy Work Culture
  1. People in low-status jobs often experience 'bare existence,' where their work feels repetitive and lacking in connection. This can lead to a dehumanizing feeling in the work environment.
  2. Power isn't just about money or social class; it shapes how people experience their lives and work, often pushing them into roles that feel empty or robotic.
  3. The struggle for status in society can be brutal, as people fear being reduced to a state of 'bare existence,' leading them to chase power and privilege, even in jobs that don't truly fulfill them.
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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 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.

Resisting the Enshittification of Work

Make Work Better • 157 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

RDEL #42: How does developer satisfaction lead to improved productivity?

Research-Driven Engineering Leadership • 19 implied HN points • 13 May 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Empowerment is key: Giving engineers more control over their work leads to higher productivity and job satisfaction.
  2. Promote continuous learning: Encouraging ongoing learning and development increases adaptability and productivity.
  3. Ensure engineers feel valued: When engineers feel their contributions are important, it results in higher-quality outcomes.

Wanna career? Move to the center!

Wednesday Wisdom • 132 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

Sayonara babey

Splattern • 79 implied HN points • 31 Oct 23
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Sometimes, even after hard work, we may not get the results we want at a job. It's okay to feel disappointed but also to recognize that it might be time to move on.
  2. Finding relief and acceptance in a disappointing situation can be freeing. It's important to focus on what you really want and let go of the need for external validation.
  3. Facing a tough situation can lead to a fresh start. Embracing change and looking forward to new opportunities can be exciting and hopeful.

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

Make Work Better • 141 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

The value of grunge work

Wednesday Wisdom • 113 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Work Culture
  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.

RTO's Dead Cat Bounce

Make Work Better • 98 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

AI, Spud Club and the future of work

Make Work Better • 98 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

RDEL #37: What drives sense of belonging on software teams?

Research-Driven Engineering Leadership • 19 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Teams with a strong sense of belonging are more effective and deliver more value due to better communication, trust, and a supportive environment for experimentation.
  2. Factors such as psychological safety and work appreciation positively impact the sense of belonging on software teams.
  3. For managers, recognizing and appreciating team efforts significantly influences the sense of belonging and overall team productivity.

Soft is the New Hard.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 72 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

Self-employed at heart

davidj.substack • 71 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Focus on your own goals and values. Don't get distracted by what others think or want from you.
  2. Your satisfaction at work should come from personal growth and pride, not from pleasing others.
  3. In the long run, your self-improvement stories will matter more to future employers than just meeting company goals.

Risk Tolerance is Earned

Superfluid • 92 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Risk tolerance grows by taking small risks over time. You don't have to make huge moves right away; start with little steps to build your confidence.
  2. Working in a challenging environment, like a startup, can push you beyond your comfort zone. This can help you find what really matters to you in your career.
  3. Stability is often a goal for many, especially for those with immigrant backgrounds. However, it's important to aim high and take calculated risks to discover new opportunities.

The Work Identity Paradox will change our jobs

Make Work Better • 65 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

The 5 intensity zones of software teams

Leading Developers • 59 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

On Liedowns and the 'Meritocracy'

Castalia • 99 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Work Culture
  1. The 'lying flat' movement in East Asia is a response to the pressures of a work-centric culture. People are choosing to step back from overwork and stress, promoting a lifestyle that values rest.
  2. In the West, similar movements like 'The Great Resignation' don't capture the same spirit as 'lying flat.' Many see these Western protests as just a shift from corporate jobs without addressing the core issues of work-life balance.
  3. Top athletes like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles show that even successful individuals can feel overwhelmed by expectations. Their decision to prioritize mental health challenges the idea of the meritocracy, where success often comes with endless obligations.

Highlights from the responses to my reflections

Splattern • 39 implied HN points • 05 Nov 23
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Going on a vision quest means spending time alone in nature to reflect and connect with yourself. It's a chance to slow down and think deeply about your life.
  2. Working on meaningful projects can bring a sense of purpose. Setting up a work area and preparing for adventures shows a balance between productivity and leisure.
  3. Responses from others highlight the importance of being treated well at work. Many people feel that a supportive and respectful workplace is crucial for long-term happiness.

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

Sheep Code • 67 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

Safe vs ALL-IN Engineering Management

Leading Developers • 70 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. There are two main styles of engineering management: Safe and All-In. Safe managers stick to the rules and like a structured work environment while All-In managers push for change and challenge the status quo.
  2. All-In managers are seen as demanding and sometimes annoying by others, as they constantly seek improvement and advocate for their team's needs. They care deeply about their team's success and fight for resources.
  3. The big clash happens because Safe managers prefer a calm, methodical way of working, while All-In managers bring energy and chaos. Both styles can struggle to cooperate effectively.

Working hard or hardly working

Splattern • 39 implied HN points • 11 Sep 23
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Finding joy and laughter at work can make a big difference in how people feel about their jobs. Having good coworkers who you can connect with is really valuable.
  2. Strong management and dedicated owners can inspire employees to work hard and be committed. When leaders show up every day, it encourages the team to do the same.
  3. In some places, like St Louis, the culture emphasizes hard work and values like family and spirituality. This sense of community can shape people's attitudes towards their jobs.

How Often Should You Visit Your Remote Team?

Kartick’s Blog • 17 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. It's best to visit your remote team for a week every quarter. This helps maintain good relationships and teamwork.
  2. If you're traveling across many time zones, consider staying longer, like 2-3 weeks, to adjust to the time difference.
  3. Regular in-person meetings strengthen connections and improve productivity, so make it a priority to meet face-to-face when possible.

How You Know They Mean It

The Radar • 19 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Genuine companies believe in and practice their values because it's the right thing to do, not just for business interests.
  2. One way to distinguish between fake and true believers in company values is to see how they treat people who can't benefit them financially.
  3. Value systems play a significant role in a company's success, impacting employee engagement and ultimately financial performance.

Lessons in Leadership from Formula 1: Christian Horner vs Toto Wolff

The Caring Techie Newsletter • 18 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Leadership styles can really affect how well a team performs. Some leaders pile on pressure, while others focus on support and growth.
  2. When teams feel secure and supported, they tend to perform better. Creating a positive environment helps people grow into their roles.
  3. It's important to think long-term when leading. Investing in people and their development brings better results instead of expecting immediate performance.

Rethinking Meetings.

The Future Does Not Fit In The Containers Of The Past • 46 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Meetings should focus on giving rather than just taking. When we approach meetings with a giving mindset, everyone benefits more.
  2. Generosity, empathy, and energy are key to better meetings. By being generous with our knowledge and understanding others' perspectives, we create a positive atmosphere.
  3. End meetings with clarity and a plan. It's important that everyone knows the next steps and feels motivated to take them.

Let down by our jobs we're ready to take control of our lives

Make Work Better • 54 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Workers really want flexibility in their jobs, especially young people and women. It's important for their work-life balance.
  2. There’s a lot of disappointment with jobs, and many workers feel overwhelmed by their workload. A toxic work environment is the main reason people would quit.
  3. While work used to be a place for friendships, most people feel it lacks social connection now. They hope it will improve in the future.

Be a brave fool

Sunday Letters • 139 implied HN points • 28 Feb 22
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. It's important to challenge authority and not just accept things because of titles or credentials. Listening to new ideas, even from less experienced people, can help avoid blind spots.
  2. Being self-deprecating and open to feedback makes you more approachable. Showing vulnerability helps create a better environment for discussion and improvement.
  3. Relying solely on past achievements can be a trap. Focus on the quality of your current work and be willing to debate ideas based on their merit rather than on who you are.

Why Do You Work?

David Spinks' Newsletter • 44 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

Work isn't what you think it is

Sunday Letters • 159 implied HN points • 17 Oct 21
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. Your career path is unique, and it’s shaped by random events and choices, not just a clear plan. Don’t try to follow someone else’s journey; create your own.
  2. Having a lot of impact in what you do is key to long-term success. Focus on what matters to you and makes a difference.
  3. Passion for your work can lead to success and satisfaction. Enjoying what you do doesn’t mean it’s not valuable, so embrace what you love.

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

The Leading Sapiens Weekly • 40 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
💼 Business Work Culture
  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.

Three people I admire

Tech Ramblings • 39 implied HN points • 07 May 23
💼 Business Work Culture
  1. David Goggins inspires hard work and resilience. He shows that facing fears and not settling for mediocrity is important for success.
  2. Ray Dalio's books offer valuable lessons on building a company and understanding societal changes. His principles on culture and feedback are especially useful for entrepreneurs.
  3. John McWhorter excels in clear and thoughtful debate. He teaches how to focus on ideas rather than personal attacks, making discussions more accessible for everyone.