How does Amazon's leadership philosophy align with your leadership philosophy?
Amazon's Leadership Principles are clearly outlined on the company's website. You will not be expected to memorize each principle word for word; however, you should understand the basics of these principles so that you can express what they mean to you as a mindful leader. Amazon's leadership principles are the pillars on which Amazon stands. They visit these principles when they approach problems and tackle new ideas.
- Customer Obsession: Leaders start with the customers
- Bias for Action: Leaders know that speed matters
- Invent and Simplify: Leaders expect innovation
- Are Right, A Lot: Leaders are right, a lot of the time
- Think Big: Leaders create bold direction
- Frugality: Leaders accomplish more with less
- Insist on the Highest Standards: Leaders have relentless standards
- Ownership: Leaders act like owners
- Have Backbone: Leaders respectfully challenge decisions and commit
- Dive Deep: Leaders stay connected to the details
- Deliver Results: Leaders deliver, despite setbacks
- Hire and Develop the Best: Leaders raise the bar
- Learn and Be Curious: Leaders never stop learning
- Earn Trust: Leaders treat others respectfully
"I have read through Amazon's leadership principles, and a few that resonated with me most were earning trust, having a backbone, and delivering results. I wholeheartedly agree that a good leader will treat others respectfully, despite a difference of opinion. I am sure to see setbacks as challenges versus roadblocks. Also, I am unafraid to challenge a decision respectfully if I feel passionate about it. Other principles that stood out to me were customer obsession, ownership, and frugality. As a PM with my current company, I understand the importance of working with resources respectfully. In fact, practicing frugality can encourage a lot of creativity. Customers are everything, so being obsessed with earning their trust by creating incredible products will always work out in our favor. Lastly, I agree that a leader should act like an owner in every single way. Long-term thinking is important, as is jumping in wherever needed rather than acting as though it's not your job. As a leader, I never consider myself above a task. I am in the trenches with my team, an active participant every step of the way."
