Why Jeff Bezos bought The Washington Post and why he’s the most authentic leader going

Jeff Bezos just bought The Washington Post and the snarky tweets and blog posts are pouring in. And if you only use 1/3 of your brain, its easy to make fun of anyone who buys a print publication in this day and age. But that’s not what he’s buying.

Bezos understands that people will still pay for high-quality written content. He learned that when he created Amazon and revolutionized the book industry. He also understands how to take printed content and distribute it digitally. He learned that when he created the Kindle device and ecosystem. So do I think he’ll be able to figure out how to take The Washington Post and successfully bring it into the digital age? I’d bet on no one else.

Jeff Bezos remains the most authentic leader going.

Being authentic is one of the most important traits of a successful leader. I remember when Bezos bought Zappos and he posted this video to the two companies:

And then yesterday he wrote this letter to The Washington Post. Take the time to read how he addresses the legacy, leadership, staff and customers of The Post. It’s authenticity at its best.