Almost every aspect of our civilization was dramatically changed by the Mongols, who began to trade with the rest of the world during the 13th century. Technology, philosophy, clothes, art, literature, music, and obviously weapons and food all became exchanged commodities. For the first time ever, Genghis Khan connected China with Europe.

Many books and studies have tried to discover how one million small Mongolian tribes were able to establish the largest empire mankind ever knew. What was their strategy that led to such success? How was Genghis able to communicate with his warriors in his large empire despite the fact that the majority were illiterate and couldn’t read? How was he able to create a cohesive team? How was he able to expand so fast while maintaining the core values?

I would argue that it had a lot to do with the culture he forged. I would also argue that in order to grow fast in extreme conditions, strategy alone isn’t sufficient.

Culture

Companies, like nations, are living organisms led by an endless pursuit to grow, expand and move forward. We often look into their strategies and growth engines, yet sometimes we neglect to observe their culture.

Culture is about:

• Values and mission.

• Being open to other ideas and allowing everyone to opine.