How can the lessons from "Work Rules!" about hiring the best talent up front be applied in today's business environment?

Yes, there are several companies that have successfully implemented the hiring practices outlined in "Work Rules!". Google is a prime example, as the book is written by Laszlo Bock, Google’s Senior Vice President of People Operations. He shares insights and experiences from his time at Google, outlining their hiring strategy. Other companies, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, have also implemented similar hiring practices, focusing on hiring the best talent upfront to ensure success.

Some of the most innovative ideas presented in "Work Rules!" include the concept of hiring more slowly to ensure the best people are selected who will be successful in the context of Google's business and inspire success in those around them. This approach reduces the need for extensive training and allows for the reallocation of training resources to support hiring. Another innovative idea is the emphasis on creating a culture of transparency and trust, where employees feel valued and are encouraged to take risks.