Book review: Trillion Dollar Coach
Apr 4, 2023
“Always build communities, build communities inside and outside of work. A place is much stronger when people are connected.” — Bill Campbell.
I recently finished reading the book Trillion Dollar Coach. The book is about the life and work of Bill Campbell, who was a coach and mentor to such top executives as Steve Jobs, Larry Page, Eric Schmidt and others.
He started out as an American soccer coach at the university and then worked for companies like Kodak and Apple.
Before reading the book, I thought mentors were only needed when you're a junkie and don't know where or how to grow. But, afterwards, I realized that you're always wondering that question along the way and need an experienced person from your field who can help abstract.
The book is built around the lessons and values that Bill Campbell imparted to his charges. The authors use anecdotes and personal experiences to illustrate how Campbell's coaching philosophy of emphasizing relationships, trust and teamwork helped shape the culture and success of some of the world's most innovative companies.
One of the strengths of The Trillion Dollar Coach is its accessibility. The book is well written and engaging, with lots of humor and heartwarming stories, making it an enjoyable read. The authors have done an excellent job of balancing personal stories with practical ideas, making the book a valuable resource for anyone interested in leadership or management.
Another virtue of the book is the variety of perspectives it offers. The authors include interviews with a wide range of people who have worked with Campbell, from CEOs to coaches to engineers, creating a multifaceted portrait of his impact on the technology industry. This diversity of perspectives helps readers gain a full understanding of Campbell's leadership philosophy and how it has been applied in different contexts.
Overall, The Trillion Dollar Coach is an excellent book that offers a valuable perspective on leadership and management in the technology industry. The authors have done an excellent job bringing Bill Campbell's coaching philosophy to life, and their ideas are both practical and inspiring. Whether you are a CEO or a new hire, this book offers valuable lessons and ideas to help you become a more effective leader and team player. Highly recommended.