My Top-Saved Reads of 2023

In a world overflowing with online content and limited time for consumption, we often encounter a deluge of forwards, shares, and recommended articles to read. When I stumble upon an intriguing piece or receive a suggestion, my usual practice is to bookmark or add it to my reading queue. As we near the end of 2023, here are a few articles I’m sharing from my collection of “saved reads.” Please note that some may require a subscription.

1. What Happens To All the Stuff we Return? . Source: New Yorker

With our shopping habits primarily shifting online, there’s a common assumption that returned items seamlessly re-enter regular inventory, ready to be sold at full price. However, the reality is quite different. Online retailers experience an average return rate of close to twenty per cent, with apparel returns often doubling that figure. A surprising percentage of these returns end up discarded, termed as D.I.F. (destroy in field) in the industry. Organizations are actively exploring ways to minimize this, initiating a process known as “triaging.” Read this article for insights, and perhaps it’ll make you think twice before placing an order with potential returns in mind.

2. What Todays Rainmakers do Differently? . Source: Harvard Business Review

This article has emerged as a “must-read” at professional services firms. Traditionally, professional services firms relied on the belief that delivering excellent work and fostering strong relationships would naturally bring clients back. However, the current business landscape has evolved. The article provides a thorough analysis, unveiling five distinct profiles for business development: Expert, Confidant, Realist, Debater, and Activator.

Research highlights the positive impact of the Activator approach on performance and revenue. Activators exhibit three key behaviors: committing to business development, connecting with clients and colleagues, and creating value through collaboration. It’s a worthwhile read from HBR.

3. A Retiring Consultant’s Advice on Consultants. Source: The Economist

I received this article from several colleagues, clients, and friends. The article serves as a valuable reminder for consultants, addressing the fears and concerns clients may harbor. It emphasizes that the “bait and switch” tactic is among the top things clients dislike about consultants. It’s recommended reading for both consultants and clients alike.

4. No Human Coders in 5 years? . Source: Peter Diamandis Blog

Peter Diamandis, a futurist and technology optimist, delves into the hype surrounding Gen AI in this compelling blog. He discusses the democratization of coding by AI, envisioning a future where everyone becomes a creator and coder. The blog raises an intriguing question: should children still learn programming languages? The perspective presented suggests that the focus should be on nurturing a mindset of computational thinking, empowering individuals to dissect intricate problems, formulate logical solutions, and engage in critical thinking.

5. If You Make Your Employees Feel Too Comfortable, They Just Won’t Work as Hard . Source: Fortune

Amid the global economic slowdown and 2023 layoffs, the term “psychological safety” gained prominence. This article explores the perspective that fostering a “no bad ideas” culture in organizations may inadvertently convey a lack of consequences for poor performance. Research by Peter Cappelli, a Wharton School management professor, along with Tel Aviv University’s Liat Eldor and Michal Hodor, draws on cognitive psychology data. They discovered that in creative roles, excessive feelings of comfort and safety can result in diminished performance in routine tasks. While moderately psychologically safe workplaces enhance routine task performance, highly psychologically safe ones are associated with decreased performance. It’s an insightful read.

6. The Staggering Economic Impact of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Source: Time

In 2023, you likely got swept up in the Taylor Swift craze, and 2024 is expected to continue that trend. This article delves into the economic effects of Swift’s Eras Tour, forecasting nearly $5 billion in consumer spending in the United States. The tour has emerged as the ideal choice for post-pandemic concert enthusiasts seeking an immersive live music experience. It’s a compelling exploration of the key ingredients for financial success.

There are probably a few more good articles that I missed mentioning but these are the ones that stood out for me. Enjoy, and feel free to share any recommendations you might have.