The Reading Culture That Fueled Amazon's Success

July 13, 2025 - 18:26

Steve Huynh, a former principal engineer at Amazon, recently shared insights into the company's unique culture that emphasizes the importance of reading and writing. He highlighted a practice that has been integral to Amazon's operations: the use of six-page memos. This approach, which was established under the leadership of Jeff Bezos, encourages thorough analysis and clear communication among teams.

Huynh noted that he dedicated between one to four hours each day to reading, a habit he believes contributes significantly to Amazon's innovative edge. This commitment to reading not only helps employees stay informed but also fosters a deeper understanding of complex issues, enabling more effective problem-solving.

The emphasis on written communication ensures that ideas are well-structured and critically evaluated before they are presented, allowing for better decision-making. Huynh's reflections underline the importance of cultivating a culture that prioritizes continuous learning and thoughtful discourse, which he considers a key factor in Amazon's ongoing success.