| Monthly Highlights, September 2022 |
Organizations have been allocating more resources toward improving ESG (environmental, social, and governance) efforts, but the acronym has consistently encountered doubt and criticism—namely, for being perceived as a distraction and intrinsically too difficult. Senior partners Lucy Pérez, Vivian Hunt, Hamid Samandari, and coauthors rebuke those claims, asserting that ESG is now more essential, relevant, and quantifiable than ever. Does ESG really matter to companies? What is the business-grounded, strategic rationale? This month, our featured stories look at the why of ESG (that is, why ESG matters to companies), as well as the how of ESG (that is, how companies can take a more systematic and rewarding approach to ESG). Other highlights in this month’s issue include the following topics:
- ten imperatives that should guide organizations seeking to outgrow and outearn their peers
- why companies should focus on resiliency and cost but also make intentional bets for longer-term growth
- the technology trends that matter most for companies in 2022
- why leaders should play offense and defense during times of volatility
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| Editor’s choice |
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| Although valid questions have been raised about ESG, the need for companies to understand and address their externalities is likely to become essential to maintaining their social license. |
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| While ESG is likely to evolve both in substance and name in the coming years, its underlying impulse is here to stay. Here’s how companies can take a more systematic and rewarding approach to ESG. |
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| Our latest Consumer Pulse research shows that there’s more pressure than ever on consumer confidence. But despite a general feeling of pessimism, there are signals of hope in consumer behavior. Tap into consumer sentiment |
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| Which technology trends matter most for companies in 2022? New analysis by the McKinsey Technology Council highlights the development, possible uses, and industry effects of advanced technologies. Explore the research |
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| Today’s challenging environment requires business leaders to hone their edge in three critical areas: insights, commitment, and execution. Focus now |
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| Three of four frontline workers want to be promoted, but less than one in four achieves it. Companies can take targeted actions to better support these workers. Get new DEI insights |
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| Business building is increasingly important for company resilience, and CEOs are uniquely suited for the job. Here are five tasks that CEOs can undertake to build successful new businesses. Chart a bold path |
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| McKinsey’s annual book list from leaders, authors, and editors is back—with something for everyone. Browse 100+ picks |
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| Explore how eight industries may transition to a net-zero world, and how organizations can respond with green businesses that create value along the way. Make bold moves |
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| McKinsey senior colleagues share their formative early-career experiences to help you navigate yours. Watch the latest episode |
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| Sharpen your problem-solving skills the McKinsey way, with our weekly crossword. Play now |
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| Hard times call for creative solutions. How can companies maintain or improve their service levels while managing costs? Read our classic article, “Maintaining the customer experience.” Rewind |
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| — Curated by Eleni Kostopoulos, a digital publishing manager in McKinsey’s New York office |
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