History Lessons from Fred Smith

As I skimmed through the USA Today I found sitting outside my door this morning, I came across an interview with FedEx CEO Fred Smith.

The story of FedEx and Fred Smith has always intrigued me, so I checked it out. They focused most of the interview on Fred’s love of history and his view that you can learn more about leadership and business from history than from many popular leadership books. One of the leaders I admire most gave me the same advice a few years ago, so I thought I’d pass along Fred’s other tips:

Tips steeped in history from Fred Smith

* There are only about six business books worth reading. For enduring lessons, read history.
* The great conquerors of the past treated the conquered well. Remember that next time your company makes an acquisition.
* The most risky course is often inaction.
* When things go wrong, take responsibility.

posted in category(s): Points of Interest

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