Innovation is not a big breakthrough invention every time. Innovation is a constant thing. But if you don't have an innovative company [team], coming to work everyday to find a better way, you don't have a company[team]. You're getting ready to die on the vine. You're always looking for the next innovation, the next niche, the next product improvement, the next service improvement. But always trying to get better.

Some people have better ideas than others; some are smarter or more experienced or more creative. But everyone should be heard and respected.

Don't take a job because your mother wants you to. Don't be a victim. You own your decision.

My bosses cautioned me about my candor. Now my GE career is over, and I'm telling you that it was my candor that helped make it work.

If you managed a baseball team, would you listen more closely to the team accountant or the director of player personnel?

Give me a highly successful unionized industry.

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