Robert Sutton, a Professor of Management Science and Engineering at Stanford University, has dedicated nearly two decades to emphasizing the significance of generating and implementing good ideas for long-term success. Through his extensive research, published works, and lectures, Sutton has established an evidence-based management movement that bridges the gap between practical management and rigorous research. He is actively involved in various programs at Stanford University, including the Center for Work, Technology and Organization and the Stanford Technology Ventures Program. Sutton is also an IDEO Fellow and a co-founder of the interdisciplinary program known as "d. school," which teaches design thinking.
Sutton's first book, "The Knowing-Doing Gap" (2000), delves into the reasons why companies and managers often struggle to put good ideas into action. He offers practical guidance on how to effectively translate knowledge into action. This book was recognized as the "Best Management Book of 2000" by Management General. Another notable publication by Sutton is "The No Asshole Rule" (2007), which became a best-seller according to the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Publishers Weekly. Sutton also had the privilege of writing the foreword for the 40th Anniversary Edition of "The Peter Principle: Why Things Always Go Wrong" (2009) by Dr. Laurence J. Peter & Raymond Hull.
Inspired by his previous best-seller, Sutton's latest book, "The Asshole Survival Guide" (2018), explores strategies for dealing with difficult individuals. He has also authored other notable books such as "Weird Ideas That Work" (2007) and "Hard Facts, Dangerous Half-Truths, and Total Nonsense" (2006, co-authored with Jeffrey Pfeffer). The latter was recognized as the best business book of 2006 by The Globe and Mail. In addition to his books, Sutton has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed journals, management outlets, and reputable news sources such as Harvard Business Review, McKinsey Quarterly, The New York Times, Financial Times, and Wall Street Journal.
Currently, Sutton is collaborating with Huggy Rao on a project called The Friction Project. This initiative aims to understand the causes of destructive organizational friction and find solutions, while also exploring situations where friction can be beneficial. Sutton has delivered keynote speeches to over 200 groups in 20 countries, and his ideas have been featured in various media outlets including The Atlantic, Esquire, Fortune, Wired, and The Washington Post. He has also made appearances as a guest on several radio and television shows, including ABC, Bloomberg, BBC, CNBC, Fox, NBC Today Show, KGO, PBS, NPR, Marketplace, and CNN.
For inquiries regarding Sutton's availability and speaker fees, please contact his speaking agent at PepTalk for both US and international inquiries.
