Oct 19, 2020
No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention
If you have not read, No Rules Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention by Reed Hastings, you should. In need of high-level knowledge? Take the time to read this gem. This book is surely a best read of the year on any list. Netflix cofounder Mr. Hastings reveals the culture that drives one of the world’s most innovative, creative, and successful businesses. Transparency and openness are at the forefront of everything. Mr. Hastings leads by example, sets the right leadership. True leadership. Here are few principles that hold much value.
Talent Density
Everything starts and ends with people. What type of people are you surrounded by? When it comes to talent and triumph, these individuals make the difference. Subpar and average citizens have a place too, just not with the likes of Netflix. Common sense would state that high performing staff members should be the norm, as they set the right foundation. Yet many organizations do not follow this principle. Sometimes a firm must overpay in order to secure exceptional talent. Netflix has no problem paying people what they are worth in the marketplace.
Mr. Hastings believes that an organization with top performers has no need for strict controls. At Netflix, rules take a backseat to trusting individuals to act responsibly. There are plenty of trustworthy individuals around. Finding and keeping them is the tricky part. Having a setting where trust runs rampant and where people take true ownership creates positive energy. Energy is the fuel that keeps the engine running.
Having stellar folks in place require little maintenance and supervision. Handling these folks is unproblematic because each participant understands the overall scheme of things. There is no micromanaging talented citizens. Where there is commitment, there is responsibility. Simplicity works best where there is honesty.
Having talented individuals within develops a thrilling environment. Talented people make one another more effective. A high-level environment becomes attractive, downright infectious. Does anyone want to perform in a mediocre environment? How many people seek a place of stagnation and boredom?
People seek inspiration at work and not all settings offer such. Strong performers do not require constant reminders, or to be told, they simply get after it. Everyone seeks to be surrounded by those who can help. When help is readily available, creativity and risk taking becomes the norm. Take enough risks and one will pan out. Performance and character are contagious. Talent density speaks volumes.
Be Transparent
Not many are transparent as Mr. Hastings, who encourages everyone to say exactly what they believe, with positive intent. Saying what you really think with positive intent has powerful implication. As a result, it should never be taken lightly. Speaking freely expresses character, maturity, and growth. Self-confidence and empathy are also on display. All of these characteristics are vital. Be mindful.
Giving and receiving feedback with transparency should be common. How can people learn and become better without transparency? Mr. Hastings stated that feedback must be given with positive intent, while also focusing on what can be done differently. Learning should match all feedback. This is key. The more genuine and accurate the feedback, the more value one can provide to another. Progress and growth can result from this exercise. We can all learn a thing or two from those who walked the path. Take the time to learn from Mr. Hastings.
With love,
Vedran Agovic
