The No Asshole Rule

When asked for his suggestion for the annual list of Breakthrough Ideas by the Harvard Business Review, Robert Sutton recommended 'the no asshole rule' as the best business practice. This piece quickly gained popularity and became one of the most widely-read articles in the HBR. Encouraged by the desperation and frustration expressed by people, the tactics they used to maintain their dignity in work environments filled with difficult people, the funny stories of revenge, and the small victories celebrated against malicious individuals, Sutton was inspired to write THE NO ASSHOLE RULE. He strongly believes that professional workplaces do not have to be a far-fetched idea, as they do exist, and can actually improve performance. He also believes that widespread contempt can be eliminated and replaced with mutual respect if a team or organization is properly managed.