Big companies Quote by Jeffrey R. Immelt
“I think there's a need for somewhat of a mindset change. We need to have a consistent external focus. We've always had the research labs. We've always had the resources to be innovative, and we've been innovative in a number of businesses. But, in any big company, you have to constantly push people to look at markets and customers, rather than look internally at themselves.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Business Leadership Conference, 2015
Companies must shift from internal focus to external market and customer orientation to stay innovative.
In simple terms: Look outside the company for ideas.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize market and customer insights.
Themes
innovation
leadership
market focus
customer centricity
Mood
strategic
pragmatic
forward‑looking
Type
business
leadership
When to use this quote
- product development
- marketing strategy
- customer research
Key Concepts
strategic thinking
organizational culture
external analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- How to balance internal strengths with market needs?
- What tools help maintain external awareness?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on external focus can ignore internal capabilities.
