10 LinkedIn articles to not miss from August 2019 !

As I had the opportunity to highlight in my LinkedIn article regarding the concept of #LinkedInFF, the new and improved LinkedIn algorithm enables consumption of much more diverse content than before. However, in order to keep up the effort of unearthing the gems that LinkedIn has to offer in terms of content, I have decided to feature 10 of the most intriguing pieces of content I chance upon in my feed each month. I would invite comments regarding pieces of content that I may have missed or suggestions for new content creators to follow! This is my selection for the month of August 2019:

1) MANAGERS – TRY THIS STRATEGY TO HELP NEWCOMERS IN YOUR TEAM, by Marla Gottschalk (July 27, 2019) : click here

We begin this month with a late entry from last month, from famed industrial psychologist Marla Gottschalk who in her role as influencer on LinkedIn, provides expert content helping organisations to manage expectations and challenges at the workplace. In this particular article, she tackles the oft-ignored subject of how to aid a newcomer’s on-boarding process beyond just documentation, allowing them to have the most productive and healthy integration into a new organisation.

2) REINVENT YOURSELF, by Bracken Darell (August 1, 2019) : click here

Bracken Darell propagates a simple mantra - 'No matter what else you do over the next few years, reinvent yourself.' The article propagates the idea of constant reinvention or 'getting back to zero' at every stage of one's life, therefore avoiding the process of one getting entangled in the monotony of daily life. The article encapsulates 5 suggestions of how to pursue this reinvention with varying levels of 'aggressiveness'.

3) HOW DIGITAL DISTRACTION IS KILLING CREATIVITY AND WHAT TO DO ABOUT IT, by Shama Hyder (August 2, 2019) : click here

In modern times, we have been made aware of how the constant ‘pinging’ of technology around us – in our smartphones, computers and other screens, is harmful to our physical and mental health. Shama Hyder, digital strategist and CEO of Zen Media details another threat to our well being – the death of creativity, through slow integration of human creativity into the monotony of daily content. The article stands apart with its analysis, but also its positive outlook regarding our potential for change.

4) WOULD YOU TRUST AN AMAZON INFLUENCER TO FILL YOUR CART?, by Ryan Holmes (August 8, 2019) : click here

Ryan Holmes, foudner and CEO of Hootsuite, a social relationship platform, presents his critique of the Amazon Influencer Program, which supports Amazon’s attempt to get a larger share within the space of social shopping. Through the article, he compares e-commerce Amzon's efforts with those of other existing platforms that are integrating social shopping such as Instagram and Facebook.

5) NAMING POWER: WHY NPS NEEDS A CLEAR TAXONOMY, by Fred Reichheld (August 19, 2019) : click here

Fred Reichheld, termed the 'high priest of loyalty' is a Bain Fellow and inventor of the Net Promoter System of management. This system has been lauded often and adopted by several leading organisations across the world. In this article, he explores the power of a name, where he promotes the need for a better taxonomy for Net Promoter Systems, given the growing complexity of the systems. He also suggests a few terms as a starting point. 

6) WHY YOU NEED TO STOP BEING SO BUSY, NOW, by Alistair Cox (August 19, 2019) : click here

Alistair Cox, Chief Executive of Hays PLC questions the norm in this article, asking – why must we be busy all the time? In our work culture it has begun to be a mark of honour to be constantly on the go. In this context, taking time out for oneself, to take stock of current projects and plan for the future is a highly under-utilised concept. Alistair presents several convincing arguments on why it is important to balance being busy with consciously ‘un-busy’ periods in our lives, in order to be able to put our best foot forward. 

7) THE BEST LINKEDIN B2B MARKETING STRATEGY FOR 2019, by Gary Vaynerchuck (August 20,2019) : click here

Vaynerchuck is a social media and marketing guru, noted for his engaging content. In this article, he details the unearthed potential of a platform like LinkedIn to push content, particularly with the opportunities related to the organic reach, an aspect I personally am in agreement with. He simplifies this into two step process – engaging with people and publishing more content, including examples.

8) WHEN TECHNOLOGY REMEMBERS: DIGITAL HEALTH AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE, by Bertalan Meskó (August 22, 2019) : click here 

In this fascinating must-read, Bertlan Muskó explores the growing issue of Alzheimer’s disease, which threatens to be a challenge to already overwhelmed healthcare systems in coming decades. Through the article, he explores the possible role of digital systems in early detection, potential for prevention and management of the illness while also detailing several ongoing technological developments in this field.

9) HERE’S A QUESTION YOU SHOULD ASK ABOUT EVERY CLIMATE CHANGE PLAN, by Bill Gates (August 27, 2019) : click here

Coming to the conclusion of this article, I am happy to present a contribution from one of the greats - Bill Gates, who tackles the pressing and important topic of global warming. He beings by pointing out the impact manufacturing products essential to modern living such as steel and concrete – with these being some of the highest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions. With his vast exposure to various climate change plans, he raises the practical question of how to create such products with reduced emissions. Through the article, he explores various innovations in this field which he believes when combined with smart public policies can make a critical impact. 

10) FAREWELL TO THE SMALL TOILETRY BOTTLE, by Arne Sorenson (August 28, 2019) : click here

When it comes to the saving the environment, every move helps. Therefore, the efforts of the Marriott announced in this article to cut down on single use plastics, as announced by Arne Sorenson come as much needed piece of good news. I have recommended this article not just for the positive step taken but also for the ‘smart change’ conducted by the Marriott wherein they replace harmful elements without compromising on quality or the needs of their guests. 

Finally, as an added bonus, I would recommend following the weekly articles in the series termed Ariana Huffington’s Weekly Thoughts, (click here)starting from last week’s thought provoking ‘CEOs are redefining capitalism’. I find it a wonderfully concise run through of interesting studies and articles across the week. Add to this Arianna’s interesting take on each as well as a share of articles on ‘how to thrive’ and that makes plenty of food for thought for each Monday!

That concludes the list for August 2019. Do let me know your thoughts in the comments or recommendations for any individuals you find interesting...I look forward to seeing you with next month's selection on the 30th of September!