The “Rules of the Road” as told by Jerry Perenchio and as published in The Wall Street Journal:
- Stay clear of the press. No interviews, no panels, no speeches, no comments. Stay out of the spotlight — it fades your suit.
- No nepotism, no hiring of friends.
- Never rehire anyone.
- Hire people smarter and better than you. Delegate responsibilities to them. Doing so will make your job easier.
- You’ve go to know your territory. Cold!
- Do your homework. Be prepared.
- Teamwork.
- Take options, never give them.
- Rely on your instincts and common sense. If you go against them you generally regret it.
- No surprises. We don’t give them. We don’t want to get them.
- Never lose sight of what business you’re in. Stick to your “last.”
- When you suit up each day it’s to play in Yankee stadium or Dodger stadium. Think big.
- If you have a problem, don’t delay. Face up to it immediately and solve it.
- Loose lips sink ships!
- Supreme self-confidence, never arrogance.
- A true leader is accessible — no job too big, no job too small.
- Communication is our business. You can reach any of your associates anytime, anywhere, anyplace.
- If you make a mistake, admit it. Just don’t make too many.
- Don’t be a “customer’s person” (man or woman).
- Always, always take the high road. Be tough but fair and never lose your sense of humor.