People who are making decisions about the future often don't have access to some of the best ideas in the company, which may be at the periphery or at lower levels.

I've found that small wins, small projects, small differences often make huge differences.

Power stems from 'rainmaking,' as law firms put it: the ability to bring resources into the company.

Thinkers, makers and traders are the DNA of the world class company

Peter Drucker being one of the most important influences because he has helped to think differently about organizational leadership and management. Frankly, I learn something of value from everyone I meet. My Harvard colleagues. My students. The executives I work with. For an eager student, which is what I am, there is so much to be learned from everyday experiences. I'm a sponge. Always will be.

The importance of discretion increases with closeness to the top of a hierarchical organization.

In the most innovative companies there is a significantly higher volume of thank yous than in companies of low innovation.