GE's businesses turned in a terrific first quarter. Our products and services are being well received in unusually robust global markets.

The story about GE that hasn't been told is the value of an informal place. I think it's a big thought. I don't think people have ever figured out that being informal is a big deal.

Focus on a few key objectives ... I only have three things to do. I have to choose the right people, allocate the right number of dollars, and transmit ideas from one division to another with the speed of light. So I'm really in the business of being the gatekeeper and the transmitter of ideas.

Don't make the process harder than it is.

A good leader remains focused. Controlling your destination is better than being controlled by it

No vision is worth the paper it's printed on unless it is communicated constantly and reinforced with rewards.

If you've got a company that has a mentality inside that is filled with searching for a better idea every day, not just as a slogan but as a real concept, you will have innovation around you all the time.