Meaning: The quote "Accept business only at a price permitting thoroughness. Then do a thorough job, regardless of cost to us." by Arthur Nielsen is a powerful statement that encapsulates the core values of integrity, quality, and commitment to excellence in business. Arthur Nielsen was an American market analyst, who founded the Nielsen Company, a global marketing research firm known for its innovative methodologies and reliable data insights. His words reflect a deep understanding of the importance of delivering high-quality work and maintaining ethical standards in the business world.

In essence, the quote emphasizes the significance of conducting business with a focus on delivering thorough and high-quality results, rather than solely prioritizing financial gain. This approach underscores the idea that the value of a business transaction should be measured not only in terms of monetary profit, but also in the level of excellence and dedication to delivering superior outcomes.

When Arthur Nielsen speaks of accepting business only at a price permitting thoroughness, he is advocating for a strategic and principled approach to engaging in business endeavors. This implies that businesses should carefully evaluate the terms and conditions of their agreements to ensure that they have the resources and capabilities to deliver comprehensive and meticulous work. By doing so, they can uphold their commitment to excellence and avoid compromising the quality of their output due to constraints such as inadequate resources or unrealistic deadlines.

Furthermore, Nielsen’s emphasis on doing a thorough job regardless of cost underscores his belief in the intrinsic value of delivering exceptional work. This principle challenges the notion that cost-cutting measures or shortcuts should ever compromise the thoroughness and quality of the work being undertaken. It conveys a strong message about the importance of upholding professional standards and the integrity of business practices, even if it entails incurring additional costs or investing more resources to achieve the desired level of excellence.

In the context of Nielsen’s own professional legacy, this quote reflects the philosophy that underpinned the success of the Nielsen Company. The company’s reputation for providing accurate and reliable market research data was built on a foundation of unwavering commitment to thoroughness and quality. By adhering to the principles articulated in this quote, the Nielsen Company established itself as a trusted authority in the field of market research and analytics, earning the respect and confidence of clients worldwide.

Moreover, the quote resonates with broader ethical considerations in the business world. It encourages businesses to prioritize integrity and excellence over expedience and short-term gains. In a competitive and often fast-paced business environment, this perspective serves as a reminder of the enduring value of maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

In summary, Arthur Nielsen’s quote encapsulates a timeless and impactful message about the importance of conducting business with a steadfast commitment to thoroughness and quality. It serves as a guiding principle for businesses to prioritize excellence and integrity, even when faced with challenges or pressures related to cost and resources. By embracing this philosophy, businesses can cultivate a reputation for reliability, excellence, and ethical conduct, which are essential attributes for long-term success and sustainability.