I also happened to have just read his book - Nice Companies Finish First - Why Cutthroat Management is Over - and Collaboration is in.
I loved the title. I have long thought of myself as a nice person and thought one of my company's values was niceness. I have known some business jerks who are highly successful so it is reassuring that this is not the only type that can win.
The main thesis is - the power of the press now lies with with customer. Social media like Twitter, facebook and blogs allow the consumer to influence many more people than they previously could. Any degree of jerkness or niceness is now amplified by the crowd.
Being a "nice" company is now the lowest cost way to market.
In speaking to Peter, he believes in being authentic. He also applies the niceness principle to life in general - not just business. In short - it is less stressful to be nice and you get just as much result so you may as well be nice.
This is one of those books that cites examples of companies going above and beyond for customers. I always find those inspirational.
And a quote used in the book:
"The most powerful leaders are almost always the role models for the change they seek."
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
And of course no blog post is complete without a picture. My grandson Josh and granddaughter Victoria.
Great posts, I feel the same way when I see jerk officer is able to rise to the top management using any necessary mean.
ReplyDeleteI like this blog post. Gary Vaynerchuk has a book called "The Thank You Economy." I didn't actually read it but it seems to have a similar premise. That being, extra serving your customer is the way to win in this era i.e. niceness "spreads."
ReplyDeleteGood luck at the TEDxTimesSquare!
Our office is actually located around the corner (48th between 8th and 9th). You should come by after if you have some time!