“Good is the enemy of great.”
After a five-year research project, Jim Collins concludes that good to great can and does happen. In this book, he uncovers the underlying variables that enable any type of organisation to make the leap from good to great while other organisations remain only good. Rigorously supported by evidence, his findings are surprising - at times even shocking - to the modern mind.
Good to Great achieves a rare distinction: a management book full of vital ideas that reads as well as a fast-paced novel. It is widely regarded as one of the most important business books ever written.
Here are some major takeaways from Good to Great by Jim Collins:
Level 5 Leadership
Great companies are led by Level 5 leaders who are a unique blend of personal humility and professional will. These leaders prioritize the success of the company over personal recognition or success.
First Who, Then What
Before setting a vision or strategy, it’s critical to have the right people on the team. Great companies focus on getting the right people in the right roles and then determining the path forward.
The moment you feel the need to tightly manage someone, you’ve made a hiring mistake
Confront the Brutal Facts
Companies that go from good to great confront the harsh realities of their current situation without losing faith in their long-term success. This is known as the Stockdale Paradox: balancing realism with optimism.
Confront the brutal facts, yet never lose faith.
The Hedgehog Concept
Great companies focus on what they can be best in the world at, what drives their economic engine, and what they are deeply passionate about. This simple, focused strategy helps them maintain clarity and direction.
Culture of Discipline
A disciplined culture, combined with entrepreneurial energy, allows companies to execute their strategies consistently and without the need for excessive hierarchy or bureaucracy.
Technology as an Accelerator, Not a Driver
Technology should not be the primary focus or driver of change. Instead, great companies use technology as a tool to accelerate their progress toward well-defined goals.
The Flywheel Effect
Greatness is achieved through a series of small, consistent efforts that build momentum over time, much like turning a heavy flywheel. There is no single defining moment of success; rather, it’s the cumulative effect of sustained effort.
To go from good to great requires transcending the curse of competence
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