Founders #87 Thomas Watson (IBM)
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Sep 1, 2019 Dive into the fascinating world of Thomas Watson Sr. and the rise of IBM. Discover the complexities of leadership styles and the impact of charismatic authority on employee loyalty. Explore Watson's journey from his Ohio roots to the top of the business world, including the innovative strategies that defined early corporate America. Learn about the controversial tactics encountered at NCR and how mentorship under a strong leader shaped future philosophies. This is a captivating look at leadership, legacy, and the lessons learned from historical entrepreneurs.
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The Fake Company
- Thomas Watson, driven by Patterson's model, ran a fake secondhand cash register company for NCR to stifle competition.
- This unexpectedly successful ruse ultimately led to Watson's indictment for violating antitrust laws.
Learning from the Past
- Marc Andreessen views historical entrepreneurs as extreme characters.
- Studying their experiences offers invaluable lessons for today's entrepreneurs, as highlighted by his view on Thomas Watson Sr.
Unique Skills
- Focus on developing unique skills and contributions.
- Watson's father advised him to pursue work that differentiates him from others, which holds true even in today's business world.
