Akio Morita Quotes 

There is no secret ingredient, no cabalistic formula that can explain the success of the most prosperous Japanese companies.

Akio Morita

If you go through life convinced that your way is always best, all the new ideas in the world will pass you by.

Akio Morita

I believed we had created a marvellous appliance, and I was full of hope. But our marketing team was not enthusiastic. I heard that the device was unsellable, and I felt a little embarrassed at having been so passionate about something that others considered a dud. But I had so much confidence in the success of this device, that I claimed personal responsibility for the project. And I never had reason to regret my decision. The idea was approved, and right from the start the Walkman was a smashing success.

Akio Morita

I have often compared American companies to constructions of brick, and Japanese ones to constructions of stone. The organization and running of American companies is based on pre-established planning where all tasks are clearly defined. To verify this, just look at the want-ads in any newspaper: the employers establish, for each job offer, a profile of the ideal candidate, and anyone who doesn’t fit, either because they aren’t good enough or because they’re too good, will be systematically eliminated. That’s why American companies are made of bricks: each element is made to measure, and must fit perfectly to the whole.

Akio Morita

The investor and the employee are in the same position, but sometimes the employee is more important, because he will be there a long time whereas an investor will often get in and out on a whim in order to make a profit.

Akio Morita