Jeff Bezos Apologizes for Sudden, Unannounced Removal of Books from Kindles

July 24, 2009
miproconsulting
News

This is an apology for the way we previously handled illegally sold copies of 1984 and other novels on Kindle. Our "solution" to the problem was stupid, thoughtless, and painfully out of line with our principles. It is wholly self-inflicted, and we deserve the criticism we’ve received. We will use the scar tissue from this painful mistake to help make better decisions going forward, ones that match our mission.

Admirable. Here’s a leader who comes out in plain English and owns the mistake his company made. No word-mincing, no BS, no corporate double-speak. Powerful illustration of the chief executive’s character and what he expects out of his organization.

Other companies take note: this courage reaps rewards. Just look at the 200+ follow-up comments.