Leaders can successfully transform culture by adopting the strategies of societal movements to inspire and bring employees together to work toward a shared purpose, write StrawberryFrog's Scott Goodson and Chip Walker. "Creating a movement around a shared purpose has the power to galvanize people. It motivates them at an emotional level," the pair write. Full Story: SmartBrief/Marketing (5/3)
9 keys to effective reskilling initiatives Skill building, which has grown as a priority during the pandemic, works best when businesses apply as many of nine support practices -- such as "assessing the demand and need for specific skills in the future" -- as possible, according to McKinsey analysts based on a survey about reskilling. "When companies follow all nine practices that support a skill transformation ... the odds for success are nearly guaranteed," they write. Full Story: McKinsey (4/30)
The Landscape
IKEA meets Lego: Inside Google's new office design Google's new office design centers around "Team Pods," which feature furniture on casters that can be easily rearranged, and a "Campfire" meeting room where attendees sit in a circle surrounded by large virtual displays to collaborate with remote workers. The company is developing moveable walls, zipper-attached overhead heating systems, and inflatables that can provide privacy. Full Story: The New York Times (4/30)
Compensation for US workers up 0.9% in Q1 Total compensation for US workers increased by 0.9% in the first quarter, the biggest rise in 13 years, according to the Labor Department. Overall incomes were up 21.1% in March, boosted by unemployment aid and stimulus checks, while wages and salaries were up 1% in the first quarter and benefits increased by 0.6%. Full Story: ABC News/The Associated Press (4/30)
Your Next Challenge
Microsoft to change its default font from Calibri After 15 years, Microsoft is changing its default font from Calibri to one of five choices: Bierstadt, Grandview, Seaford, Skeena or Tenorite. "A default font is often the first impression we make," Microsoft wrote. "It's the visual identity we present to other people via our resumes, documents, or emails." Full Story: CNN (4/28)
POLL QUESTION: Which default font should Microsoft choose?
Outside factors can affect how your body metabolizes caffeine and whether it will keep you up at night, and determinants include smoking, taking oral contraception and how quickly your liver processes caffeine. The FDA recommends 400 milligrams of caffeine per day or less, with a typical 8-ounce cup of coffee containing 100 milligrams. Full Story: CNN (5/3)
Supply chain issues, a chemical plant fire and a pandemic-induced boom in pool construction are three factors creating a major chlorine shortage. Prices are skyrocketing, so will people be hoarding chlorine like it's toilet paper? Full Story: CNBC (4/30)
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