First Thing Monday #39
This week we predict AI replaces Wall Street analysts, Dua Lipa gives us 2 new jams, and the Mailbag Edition returns 🤑🕺📨
⛱️ Good morning, y'all! We finally got the sunshine we were craving in North Carolina this weekend – perfect for some quality time with friends and family. This week's FTM is a Mailbag Edition, tackling a variety of questions from our readers. Thank you to all the folks who wrote in!
☑️ FTM is a weekly newsletter that includes a recap of all the news you need to know to make better career decisions. Each issue also includes four tips for developing better relationships at work and a deep dive into a pressing workplace topic. Weekly issues come out on Monday mornings!
❓ Have a work question or topics you’d like us to discuss? Drop me a line 📱 simply reply to this email or leave us a comment below!
I’m Jon Cochran, a workplace sociologist with over 15 years of experience leading sales, marketing, and product development teams and working with brands like J.Crew, Hilton, and Mattel. I want to provide resources to help you take control of your career and maximize your satisfaction in the workplace.
⏰ What to read before your first meeting:
The Worst Part of a Wall Street Career May Be Coming to an End (New York Times): AI is rapidly changing the landscape of investment banking, specifically the role of analysts. Repetitive tasks like crunching numbers and assembling presentations are increasingly being automated by AI tools, leading to potential job cuts and a significant reduction in the number of new analyst needed. Some experts estimate that AI could replace up to three-quarters of bank employees' working hours. Others believe it will primarily supplement human work by making it more efficient and interesting. Regardless, the impact of AI is undeniable; executives at major banks like JPMorgan Chase compare AI’s potential disruption to that of major technological advancements throughout history.
Is Name Discrimination in Hiring Still a Trend? Industry Leaders Say Yes (Dallas Weekly): Despite an 83.6% employment rate shortly after graduation, 60% of Black graduates find themselves in jobs that don't utilize their full college degrees, compared to other racial groups. This underemployment persists even five years later, leading some Black candidates to resort to shortening or changing their names on resumes in hopes of better chances with hiring managers. This practice highlights the ongoing challenges Black job seekers face, even with a college degree. Experts emphasize the importance of mentorship programs for Black graduates navigating the job market. Mentorship can provide guidance on resume writing, salary negotiation, and long-term career goals.
Getting the Most Out of #WorkTok (HR Today): Forget exit interviews! HR is turning to TikTok (#WorkTok) to understand employee frustrations and improve the workplace experience. Analyzing these trends can help HR understand employee needs and inform their strategies, such as developing clearer communication around career advancement opportunities. With 41% of employees planning to job hunt this year, addressing the top reasons employees leave (compensation, career progression, and work flexibility) is crucial for attracting and retaining talent. So, while spending a few hours on TikTok might seem unconventional, it could be a goldmine of information for HR teams.
How employers can break down generational echo chambers at work (Raconteur): A recent LinkedIn study found a troubling disconnect: only 20% of Gen Z workers interacted with someone over 50 at work in the past year. Limited interaction between age groups hinders the sharing of knowledge and skills. This lack of communication leads to knowledge loss and missed opportunities for learning. One practical tip to encourage interaction is to establish cross-generational project teams. Assigning tasks that require collaboration across age groups creates a natural environment for knowledge sharing and understanding. This allows younger workers to benefit from the experience of their senior colleagues, while older employees gain exposure to fresh perspectives and new ways of working.
You’re Back from Your Leadership Development Program. Now What? (Harvard Business Review): Just finished a leadership workshop and brimming with ideas to transform your team? Don't let that momentum fade! Here's a key strategy: craft concise "elevator pitches" highlighting your biggest takeaways. Tailor these messages for different audiences. Have a quick explanation about empowering your team for your direct reports, while focusing on strategy and results for your boss. These bite-sized summaries not only keep your goals clear but also pique interest and secure buy-in. Remember, change takes time. While some ideas might be ready for immediate action, introduce most gradually. Pace yourself, and allow colleagues to process the new direction. By strategically communicating your learnings and respecting the need for adaptation, you can leverage your workshop experience into real value.
🚰 The Water Cooler
Looks like I underestimated Kung Fu Kenny! Everyone agrees—Kendrick won. Guess I need to re-listen to DAMN.
Misty of Chincoteague by Marguerite Henry was a book my mom read to me when I was a kid. I remember being so captivated by the story of Misty and her foal. It turns out, Misty was an actual horse that Henry owned and who would even tour with her! Seems like Ms. Henry knew something about marketing young adult literature way before the rest of us!
Y’all know I love the evolving nature of language, so you know I was all over this article bidding adieu to “plonker” and “pillock” from the list of British Gen Z insults. My favorite? “Bampot,” or an eccentric or mad person. We all know some bampots!
Don’t let snarky album reviews steer you otherwise: Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism has produced at least two songs (“Illusion” and “These Walls”) that I haven’t been able to get out of my head for the last week! This album will be the best 37 minutes you spend today!
⚡️ And one last thing…
And now for some questions from First Thing Monday readers! Leave us your comments below and continue to hit reply on this email to get your questions to our inbox. Remember to include “Mailbag” in the subject and if you’re okay with your letter being included in a future installment of Mailbag please indicate “OKAY TO PRINT.”
Hi there, I'm a big fan of First Thing Monday and always look forward to your insights. I'm a new mom returning to the office after maternity leave, and I'm feeling a little lost when it comes to my work wardrobe. My old clothes don't quite fit the same, and I'm not sure what's considered professional anymore. Are there any tips for navigating office style as a new mom? I want to look polished but also feel comfortable and confident.
Thanks, Jennifer - Marketing Manager
Hi Jennifer, thanks for being a loyal FTM reader! Welcome back from maternity leave. I hear you on the wardrobe woes – finding the right balance between comfort and professionalism can be tricky. The good news is, work styles have become more relaxed. For marketing roles, a polished casual look is usually on point, whether you're working virtually or in an office. Think comfortable yet put-together pieces like tailored pants with an elastic waist with a crisp top or a comfortable dress with a jacket. Focus on clothes that mix and match easily for variety throughout the week. Confidence is key – if you feel great in something, it shows! And don't be afraid to repeat outfits – sustainability is in style too!
Speaking of style inspiration, check out "The Cereal Aisle" by Leandra Medine Cohen. Her "How to get dressed" series often features stylish working moms who balance it all. Here's a specific profile you might like:
My husband and I both work remotely and love the freedom it brings. Lately, though, we've been feeling a bit stir-crazy and isolated. The article about flexible workspaces got us thinking about coworking spaces. We'd love a dedicated workspace with some interaction with other professionals, but we're not sure if it's the right fit for us. What are some of the pros and cons of coworking spaces for couples who work remotely?
Thanks, Jessica - Graphic Designer
Hi Jessica! Your question taps into a growing trend – remote workers seeking a sense of community and a dedicated workspace. Coworking spaces can offer a solution, but it's important to weigh your options before diving in.
Pros:
Community & Connection: Coworking spaces offer built-in opportunities to network and interact with other professionals. Some are even industry-specific.
Dedicated Workspace: A designated workspace can boost productivity and separate work from home life.
Flexibility: Many coworking spaces offer various membership options, from day passes to private offices, allowing you to tailor the experience to your needs.
Cons:
Cost: Coworking memberships can be an investment. Consider if the amenities justify the cost. Consider if the amenities justify the cost, including any hidden fees or incidental expenses you might incur compared to working from home.
Noise & Distraction: Open workspaces can be noisy and distracting. Think about your ideal work environment.
Limited Socialization: While some interaction is likely, it may not replace the camaraderie of a traditional office. How often do you actually interact with someone?
Before committing to a coworking space membership, consider testing the waters. Check if local coworking spaces offer day passes or tours. This will give you a sense of the atmosphere and amenities. Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities and budget. I am working on a coworking project so I’d love to hear how this goes!
I really value your advice on workplace dynamics in First Thing Monday. I have a bit of a challenge at work. One of my colleagues consistently has a negative attitude, but they also produce excellent work. It can be draining to be around their negativity, but I also don't want to jeopardize project success. Do you have any tips for dealing with a coworker who has a bad attitude but does good work?
Thanks, David - Software Engineer
Hi David! I appreciate your reading FTM! Your question is a good one because many of us have encountered coworkers with bad attitudes. Sometimes it’s difficult to ignore these folks because they take up so much space. Here are a couple of strategies you can consider:
Strategic Distance: Can you limit direct interactions with this colleague while still collaborating effectively? Utilize project management tools or email to keep communication focused on tasks.
Goal-Oriented Focus: When you do interact, keep the conversation centered on project goals and deliverables. This might steer the conversation away from negativity.
Direct, But Kind: If their negativity is significantly impacting the project or your well-being, a direct but professional conversation might be necessary. Focus on specific instances where their behavior caused issues. Remember, you can't control their behavior, but you can control how you respond to it.
By focusing on the work and minimizing unnecessary interactions, you can protect your own well-being and potentially even influence a more positive work environment. Good luck, and keep me posted!
Have a wonderful Monday!
Follow me on Instagram at @misterfantastik
From a loyal bampot, I appreciate you Dua Lipa advocacy work!