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Bus Quote by James C. Collins

“Look, I don't really know where we should take this bus. But I know this much: If we get the right people on the bus, the right people in the right seats, and the wrong people off the bus, then we'll figure out how to take it someplace great.” quote by James C. Collins
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“Look, I don't really know where we should take this bus. But I know this much: If we get the right people on the bus, the right people in the right seats, and the wrong people off the bus, then we'll figure out how to take it someplace great.”

James C. Collins

About This Quote

Source Book: Good to Great, 2001

Success depends on placing the right people in the right roles and removing those who don’t fit.

In simple terms: Put the right people in the right seats, and remove the wrong ones.

Key Takeaway

Build a team that drives greatness.

Themes

leadership team building strategy fit

Mood

strategic analytical

Type

business leadership

When to use this quote

  • startup hiring
  • project teams
  • non‑profit boards

Key Concepts

organizational design human resources performance management

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you identify the right fit for a role?
  • What process ensures fair removal of mismatched members?
A Different Perspective

Finding “right” people is subjective and may cause turnover.

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