Be a Bull, not a Bear
Welcome to the latest edition of this weekly newsletter, packed with inspiration and actionable insights for everyone.
Let's get into it!
Are you a bull or a bear?
Many entrepreneurs will already know that Professor Scott Galloway’s Prof G Markets podcast is a must-listen take on the news that’s moving the capital markets. For those looking for a deeper dive, though, his website is also a treasure trove of smart thinking. This post, championing the need for relentless optimism, is a case in point. “Winners and other men and women of foresight and ambition do monumental things; pessimists watch them from the sidelines.”
How to do deep work in an age of distraction
I’m a little late to the party on this but Deep Work, by Cal Newport, a professor from Georgetown University, has been a revelation in productivity for me. He breaks down, simply and clearly, the ways in which technology can be a cognitive drain on knowledge workers and how to address the distracted multi-tasking that’s the bane of every businessperson. “Figure out the vital few things that matter, even if they are incredibly difficult to achieve,” he says. “And pursue them aggressively.”
Shut up and listen to your customers
Why do so many big organisations focus on new customer acquisition while neglecting their vast existing customer bases? This interesting take from McKinsey emphasises a crucial but often overlooked principle: "Shut up and listen to your customers." The consulting firm’s experience-led growth strategy finds that companies thrive when they deliver distinctive customer experiences that others cannot. It’s not just about growth – it’s about sustainable, customer-driven growth that can often require a complete reimagining of the company’s very reason for being.
Turn your business into a learning powerhouse
Let’s face it – many companies talk about learning, but few make it part of their DNA. Boston Consulting Group (BCG) argues that the secret sauce for long-term success is turning your company into a learning machine. It’s about more than just training programmes – it’s about creating a culture that thrives on curiosity, embraces mistakes and adapts on the fly. BCG’s advice? Get leaders on board, align learning with business goals and make learning contagious. You’ll be in good company too, as businesses such as Microsoft and Toyota have found that it’s a game-changer for staying ahead in an ever-evolving market.
How to get a seat on the Board (as a NED)
Ever thought about turning your career experience into consultancy or a Non-Executive Director (NED) position as a next chapter? In my latest blog, I dive into the rewards and challenges of taking on these roles later in life. From gaining a fresh, strategic perspective as a NED to balancing risk and innovation, it's all about using your expertise in new, impactful ways. Discover the route to your next opportunity here.
Craft a pitch deck that wins
Most pitch decks miss the mark – too long, too dull and too predictable. Anyone who’s been in a meeting with potential investors and seen MEGO (My Eyes Glaze Over) happen in real time will know what I’m talking about. Instead of the same old flow, why not craft a narrative that grabs attention? Think of your pitch as a story: start with a punchy one-liner, take your audience on a hero’s journey, and make your solution feel like it’s changing the game. For more tips on creating irresistible pitch decks that make investors say “yes,” check out this guide from Canva.
Know your worth (or what to pay)
If you’re freelancing – or on the hunt to hire one – knowing what to charge or pay can feel like a guessing game. But why guess when you can easily check market costs? This site offers up-to-date benchmarks on day rates and compensation, so you can get a clear picture of the going rates across various industries. Remember, though: pay average rates, and you’ll likely get average results.
Get in touch
Thank you for being part of our community. If you have any questions or spotted something interesting you think that other newsletter subscribers should know about, then please do share it with me by replying to this email or connect with me on LinkedIn.
Look out for more great insights and inspiration in your inbox next Sunday.
Cheers!
Adam