We’re always on the lookout for big ideas that challenge the status quo, reveal new insights and champion our healthiest and most fulfilling future. Here’s what we’re reading this week that help us (and you) do just that:
Why the TSA – yes the one at the airport – is actually amazing at Instagram (Entrepreneur):
What’s the secret to TSA’s growth on Instagram? Dad jokes – and the idea that a government agency doesn’t have to be a bore on social media. “Grab people’s attention with maybe something offbeat that you wouldn’t expect a government representative to say.” More insights, including how to make a dry subject like airport security fun and interesting at the link.
Netflix’s company culture (via Netflix on SlideShare):
How do you grow a company without being weighed down by processes that sap your creativity? Netflix’s culture deck deviates from the usual catch-alls for accountability and the like, to present values in a new light. The following slides draw a counterpoint to the value-statements you would’ve found on an Enron lobby wall – but not lived. Netflix is counting on a culture where all-star performers are not outliers or isolated creative-jerk types, but the norm across the company. This is their case for company as team, not family. Read on to learn why.
The queen of spin (Columbia Journalism Review):
The author thoughtfully unpacks the reasons why Ivanka Trump has managed to evade the type of media scrutiny that others affiliated with the administration. Including her husband Jared Kushner. This is a fascinating case study on reputation management. The report explores the ways in which the media and public relations teams have influenced the public’s perception of the first daughter, for better or worse.
Why Women Don’t See Themselves as Entrepreneurs (The Upshot, New York Times blog):
Homophily is a scientific term meaning love of the same. What does this have to do with women and entrepreneurship? It describes the reason why there are only 36% of women-owned businesses today. Despite women representing nearly half of the labor force. The Upshot adds some context to the stats and offers research-backed social and behavioral insights into how to close the gender gap.