What is the point of hiring smart people, we asked, if you don't empower them to fix what's broken?

What is the point of hiring smart people, we asked, if you don't empower them to fix what's broken?

Ed Catmull, the co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios and former president of Walt Disney Animation Studios, is a firm believer in the power of hiring smart people and empowering them to make a difference. In his book, "Creativity, Inc.," Catmull emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where employees are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and innovate. He argues that simply hiring smart people is not enough; they must also be given the freedom and support to fix what is broken within the organization.

Catmull's philosophy is based on the idea that creativity thrives in an environment where individuals are empowered to challenge the status quo and push boundaries. He believes that by giving employees the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work, they will be more motivated and engaged in their roles. This, in turn, leads to greater innovation and problem-solving within the organization.

One of the key reasons for hiring smart people, according to Catmull, is to tap into their unique perspectives and expertise. He argues that by bringing together a diverse group of individuals with different backgrounds and skill sets, organizations can benefit from a wide range of ideas and solutions. However, simply hiring smart people is not enough; they must also be given the freedom to apply their knowledge and skills to address challenges and drive change.

Catmull's approach to leadership is rooted in the belief that the best ideas often come from the bottom up. He encourages leaders to listen to their employees, value their input, and empower them to take action. By creating a culture of trust and collaboration, organizations can harness the collective intelligence of their workforce and drive continuous improvement.