Wes Kao, co-founder of Maven and altMBA, shares her insights on vital career skills for data professionals. She emphasizes the importance of effective communication and context when presenting data to various audiences. Wes discusses navigating feedback and fostering a culture of constructive criticism. She highlights 'acting like an owner' and taking responsibility for outcomes in professional growth. The conversation also delves into optimizing meetings, mastering the art of managing upwards, and enhancing judgment and analytical thinking for better decision-making.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Data Storytelling
When communicating data insights, offer your interpretation, not just facts.
Explain the meaning and relevance to your audience, avoiding the assumption data speaks for itself.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Tailoring Communication
Tailor communication by visualizing concentric circles representing audience context.
Adjust the "altitude" of your explanation: provide enough detail but avoid getting lost in the weeds.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Jargon Adjustment
Adjust your jargon depending on who you speak to.
Use technical language when you talk to fellow data scientists.
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In 'Outliers: The Story of Success', Malcolm Gladwell examines the often-overlooked factors that contribute to high levels of success. He argues that success is not solely the result of individual talent or hard work, but rather is influenced by a complex web of advantages and inheritances, including cultural background, family, generation, and luck. The book delves into various examples, such as the success of Bill Gates, the Beatles, and Canadian ice hockey players, to illustrate how these factors play a crucial role. Gladwell also discusses the '10,000-hour rule' and the impact of cultural legacies on behavior and success. The book is divided into two parts: 'Opportunity' and 'Legacy', each exploring different aspects of how success is achieved and maintained.
Mastering the technical side of data and AI is one thing, but communicating those insights effectively is a whole different challenge. How do you make sure your data is understood, acted upon, and influences decisions? It’s not just about presenting the right numbers—it’s about framing them in a way that resonates with different audiences. But how do you tailor your communication to different stakeholders and ensure your message cuts through? What strategies can you use to make your insights truly impactful?
Wes Kao is an entrepreneur, marketer, coach, and advisor who writes at newsletter.weskao.com. She is co-founder of Maven, an edtech company that raised $25M from First Round and Andreessen Horowitz. Previously, she co-founded the altMBA with bestselling author Seth Godin.
In the episode, Richie and Wes explore communication skills, tailoring to your audience, persuasion vs information, feedback and behavioral change, intellectual honesty, judgement and analytical thinking, management and ownership, dealing with mistakes, conflict management, career advice for data practitioners and much more.
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