Subject category:
Marketing
Published by:
Stanford Business School
Version: 20 September 2010
Length: 32 pages
Data source: Field research
Notes: This item is part of a free case collection. For terms & conditions go to www.thecasecentre.org/freecaseterms
Abstract
Tony Hsieh, originally an investor and advisor to the on-line footwear company, Zappos, joined the company in 2000, serving as the co-CEO. His partner, Nick Swinmurn, was intent on building the next Internet retailing powerhouse and satisfying customers' needs faster and more simply than ever before. Hsieh, on the other hand, was not focused solely on profits. He wanted to create a new universe, a company that was different from any other company he had known. His focus was on culture and employee happiness. Recalling his outlook on the new position, Hsieh explained, 'It was about: What kind of company can we create where we all want to be there, including me? How can we create such a great environment, where employees get so much out of it that they would do it for free?' What Hsieh did not know at the time was that he would move beyond a focus on creating enjoyment and fulfillment for employees towards delivering happiness to both customers and the greater public. This case is part of the Stanford Graduate School of Business free case collection (visit www.thecasecentre.org/stanfordfreecases for more information on the collection).
About
Abstract
Tony Hsieh, originally an investor and advisor to the on-line footwear company, Zappos, joined the company in 2000, serving as the co-CEO. His partner, Nick Swinmurn, was intent on building the next Internet retailing powerhouse and satisfying customers' needs faster and more simply than ever before. Hsieh, on the other hand, was not focused solely on profits. He wanted to create a new universe, a company that was different from any other company he had known. His focus was on culture and employee happiness. Recalling his outlook on the new position, Hsieh explained, 'It was about: What kind of company can we create where we all want to be there, including me? How can we create such a great environment, where employees get so much out of it that they would do it for free?' What Hsieh did not know at the time was that he would move beyond a focus on creating enjoyment and fulfillment for employees towards delivering happiness to both customers and the greater public. This case is part of the Stanford Graduate School of Business free case collection (visit www.thecasecentre.org/stanfordfreecases for more information on the collection).