Good to Great provides specific examples of the traits inherent in great companies and the transformations they went through to become great. Equally useful is the discourse on how “good” can be the enemy of “great” as “good” companies (or people, processes, etc.) have concerns about upsetting something that is already “good”.
This book talks about setting expectations for the first 90 days in a new job or on a new project. It provides thoughtful and tactical approaches one can use to frame the situation, gain support, set expectations, and ensure success.
Shows through live examples the value of a well thought out execution plan and reminds leaders it is the details that drive strategy and results. The book illustrates how direct and probing questions beyond what is typically accepted in business can avoid common pitfalls and ensure a sound business plan. It shows how success is achieved through a deep understanding of history, relationships, and dependencies – not a by complicit acceptance of common phrases or mandates like “Grow this business by 10%” Equally relevant is the notion that current success is driven largely by actions in the past and less by current actions (similar to how the success of an in-term President of the United States is heavily influenced by the policies and decision made by the last President).
Discusses what a lack of number intimacy can do to a person. The anecdotes are interesting, especially the ones on large numbers and on probability. There is real value in being able to estimate effectively (one of the reasons a recommended interview question is “How many pizzas are sold in the US each day?”). The thought process in estimating is perhaps more important than the answer though there is no doubt it is a real talent to both be able to think though an estimate and get close to the correct answer!
This book is an easy read & deals with coping with change; the author wrote this story to help him deal with a difficult change in his life. It showed him how to take his changing situation seriously but not take himself so seriously.
The former CEO for GE & legendary business leader shares his greatest victories, his most valuable experiences, and even his most devastating failures in a passionate memoir that reveals his most important secrets to success — in business and in life.
Light read that is both uplifting and motivational. Speaks of the need for products/services/people to be “remarkable” to stand out in today’s marketplace and the dangers of playing it safe (both for businesses and individuals). While I can’t say the author’s points are irrefutable, it makes for good internal dialogue and is thought provoking.
Talks about things in history (from products to historical events) that exploded in scope/span without any investment. For instance, Hush Puppies make a remarkable comeback a little while back simply because some people in Greenwich Village were wearing them. There is a heavy focus on the types of people (mavens, connectors, etc.) that cause the viral spread of products or words (as was the case with Paul Revere). While the book could have done a better job of suggesting how to make your product viral, the case studies were interesting and thought provoking.
Interesting, quick read on the part of the mind focused on quick assessment of anything (the Pepsi Challenge, decision making of police officers, expert assessment, etc.) and why your first impression has both strengths and weaknesses that need to be understood. There are many case studies on topics ranging from diversity to sports to product marketing – many from a cognitive psychology point of view. I really enjoyed the book but I also have an undergraduate degree in psychology.
Discusses ten different types of innovators and how they arrive at innovation. Provides examples of innovation in each of the ten types and generally describes tips and approaches within each style. Shows how innovation is not limited to products but can include processes, services, etc.
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