When it comes to cultivating a creative culture, Jeff Bezos believes it all begins with hiring. He doesn’t just look for traditional inventors; he’s interested in people who have demonstrated the ability to think outside the box, even if it’s in small, practical ways. For instance, inventing a new metric or business process shows the creative flexibility Bezos values at Amazon. By seeking out candidates who can innovate in everyday scenarios, Bezos ensures that creative thinking becomes a natural part of the company’s culture.

Photo: Cordonpress
Innovation as a Solution, Not a Choice
Bezos encourages his team to move beyond conventional thinking. Instead of settling for limited choices, he urges them to find ways to combine ideas. When faced with options that seem to be either/or, Bezos’ approach is to ask, “How can we do both?” This question of “and” versus “or” drives Amazon’s culture toward innovative problem-solving, pushing teams to explore new solutions that bridge gaps between ideas.
Culture That Reinforces Itself
A company’s culture is self-reinforcing, says Bezos, and this is especially true at Amazon. Those who thrive at Amazon are people who enjoy pioneering new solutions and don’t mind a few dead ends along the way. This creates a unique environment where people who dislike exploration often self-select out, leaving a community of individuals who are energized by creativity and resilience. Over the years, this culture has become even more deeply ingrained, consistently attracting people eager to push boundaries.
Embracing a Pioneering Spirit
Maintaining a creative culture isn’t just about hiring; it’s about building an environment that fosters and rewards inventiveness. The result? A workplace where the people who stay are genuinely enthusiastic about exploring, inventing, and tackling challenges. This pioneering approach—built through years of careful hiring and fostering a space for creativity—is at the heart of Amazon’s continued success. Bezos’ commitment to encouraging innovation has shaped Amazon into a company that not only grows but also continuously reinvents itself.
Watch Jeff Bezos:
Comentários