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

The best way to support dreams and stretch is to set apart small ideas with big potential, then give people positive role models and the resources to turn small projects into big businesses.

Don't make the process harder than it is.

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.

Be candid with everyone.

Failing to differentiate among employees — and holding on to bottom-tier performers — is actually the cruelest form of management there is.

Nothing is worse than the person in their 40s who says, 'I'm not going to learn this.' 'I don't carry an iPad.' That will label you and put you right in the corner. Some people do it as a badge of honor. I've seen them myself, they walk around bragging [about not knowing much about technology].