Jack. Straight from the Gut

As CEO of General Electric for two decades, Jack Welch increased its market cap by over $500 billion, becoming a highly respected business leader. His initiatives, including Six Sigma quality and globalization, have shaped modern corporate practices. Welch's unique philosophy emphasizes "boundaryless" idea sharing, a strong focus on people, and an informal style that opposes bureaucracy. Through anecdotes and humor, he shares the influences in his life, particularly his Irish mother, as well as the successes and failures of his career. Starting at GE in 1960 as an engineer, he learned early on the importance of standing out, especially when his first raise was the same as his peers. He navigated GE's corporate landscape while managing a $2 billion collection of businesses from a Hilton, avoiding the main headquarters. His journey to the CEO role was fraught with political challenges, culminating in a pivotal moment when he received a hug from then Chairman Reg Jones, confirming his new position. Welch candidly discusses the "Neutron Jack" era, during which GE's workforce was reduced significantly, and the strategic acquisition of RCA. He also addresses his mistakes, including the ill-fated purchase of Kidder Peabody. The narrative includes his last year at GE, detailing the successor selection process and the Honeywell acquisition attempt. Interspersed reflections, like "A Short Reflection on Golf," highlight his competitive s