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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Listen to the Intro
Pivot or Die summary
Gary Shapiro
How Leaders Thrive When Everything Changes
19 mins
Brief summary
Pivot or Die emphasizes the necessity for businesses to embrace innovation and adaptability in rapidly changing markets. Gary Shapiro outlines strategies for companies to remain competitive by continuously reassessing and redefining their approach to growth.
Table of Contents
Pivot or Die
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How CES reinvented itself in a time of crisis
Have you ever stopped to wonder what makes some companies thrive during uncertainty, while others struggle to survive? More often than not, the answer lies in their ability to pivot. Pivoting, whether driven by external forces or guided by sharp strategic foresight, gives allows businesses the chance to respond swiftly to new challenges and opportunities. A great example comes from CES, the world’s largest technology trade show, which faced a monumental crisis in 2021: to go all-digital due to the COVID pandemic.
In early 2020, as the pandemic worsened and medical experts warned of daily case surges, CES organizers faced a critical decision: stick to the in-person event format or shift boldly to a virtual platform. Despite doubts from some corners of the industry, CES made the call to go fully digital months in advance, giving exhibitors and attendees the time they’d need to prepare. Pivoting on this scale was no small feat – it meant a rapid reimagining of how a massive physical event, spanning millions of square feet, could translate into a digital experience. The pivot led to significant financial losses and even layoffs, but it was necessary to ensure the safety of participants.
The challenge was not just technical – it was logistical, too. Partnering with Microsoft’s Teams platform, CES was able to offer a tailored, immersive experience, allowing attendees to explore virtual exhibits and network with others around the globe. The result? A successful pivot with 1,000 virtual exhibits and an impressive 150,000 visitors. It demanded creativity, resilience, and a willingness to experiment with new formats.
The lessons learned from CES 2021 would go on to shape future decisions. CES 2022 evolved into a hybrid event, combining in-person and digital elements. This new format allowed for wider participation while still honoring its Las Vegas roots. The success of these pivots underscores a powerful takeaway: whether forced by external factors or proactive, pivots can drive innovation and open new opportunities. What matters is your ability to stay adaptable, make timely decisions, and keep learning throughout the process.
In today’s fast-changing world, this focus on adaptability and resilience is more essential than ever. In the next section, we’ll explore some pivotal shifts in the tech industry and how they’ve reshaped not only businesses but the world as a whole.
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What is Pivot or Die about?
Pivot or Die (2024) offers a framework for leaders to navigate rapid changes and challenges in the technology and business world. It explains how embracing different types of pivots – whether in response to failure, success, or unforeseen circumstances – can help organizations stay agile and competitive. Through case studies and lessons, it highlights the critical role of adaptability in achieving long-term success.
Who should read Pivot or Die?
- Technology entrepreneurs looking to withstand industry disruptions
- Startup founders seeking strategies for growth and pivoting
- Professionals involved in change management or strategic planning
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