There is a rule: usually, big-name entrepreneurs are also avid readers. The thoughts of many of them are profoundly influenced by the books they cherish the most. Let’s see what the chairman of Lenovo and the CEO of Red Hat reveal about their favorite bedtime reads.
Yang Yuanqing, Chairman of Lenovo – the Chinese computer company that acquired IBM’s PC division last year.
1. “Built to Last,” by Jim Collins and Jerry Porras.
Lenovo is only 20 years old, and we always tell ourselves to build an empire that lasts for a hundred years. That is one of the reasons I was drawn to this book. The title “Built to Last” immediately caught my eye. This book comprehensively studies the secrets and motivations for success of many legendary names that have endured ups and downs over a long period. Among the 12 chapters discussed in the book, I found many applicable insights for Lenovo, especially the importance of ensuring that this place remains the best working environment, competitive, and built on core values. Of course, I do not agree with everything written in the book, but it is one of the best business and strategy books I have ever encountered.
2. The World is Flat, by Thomas Friedman.
Philip Rosedale, Founder and CEO of Linden Lab, the company that created the virtual world of Second Life.
The Mystery of Capital, by Hernando de Soto.
During the early days of designing Second Life, a team member introduced this book to all of us. Initially, I thought the title was dull and the cover unappealing, but the person was so persuasive that I picked it up to read. Now, I believe de Soto deserves a Nobel Prize for what he has analyzed in this book.
The core content of the book states that all economically successful countries must start by ensuring that their citizens have the right to own, transfer, and mortgage property. This is a VERY IMPORTANT idea, as it suggests that inventions like the stock market and banking are not the keys to prosperity as commonly believed. Instead, the secret is that each individual must become an “entrepreneur” with the land they inhabit. This is also the guiding principle we followed when building the 3-D online world of Second Life.
Matthew Szulik, CEO of Red Hat.
1. On Becoming a Leader, by Warren Bennis.
I read this book at a time when I was still unclear about how to transition from being a manager to a leader. “On Becoming a Leader” is not a typical knowledge book like how to bake or how to grow bonsai. Rather, it helps us explore and cultivate the inherent qualities within us to become effective communicators and leaders.
2. Massive Change, by Bruce Mau.
This book is a compilation of portraits, ideas, and intellect from many insightful individuals, brilliant minds who regard creativity as the foundation for improving life.
Steve Ward, Director of the PC Division at IBM.
Blue Ocean Strategy, by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne.
Not only do I recommend this book, but I also gifted each leader at Lenovo a copy. Every business must focus on competition, but this book illustrates that being overly focused on current markets can cause you to miss opportunities. “Red oceans” symbolize established markets where strategies should focus on cost-cutting, revenue growth, and market share. In contrast, “blue oceans” represent untapped markets that are waiting for visionary leaders to discover. These can only be explored when you adopt a smart, differentiated approach to the market.
Thien Y
