Apple CEO Tim Cook on How Steve Jobs Recruited Him and More | The Job Interview

Summary

In this insightful interview, the speaker reflects on their life journey, from humble beginnings delivering papers to becoming a key player at Apple. They discuss the impact of Steve Jobs on their career, emphasizing the lessons learned about innovation, management, and the power of small, focused teams. The speaker highlights the importance of embracing change, trusting instincts, and recognizing opportunities. They also share how their passion for logistics and manufacturing, alongside their role in Apple's turnaround, shaped their path. Ultimately, the interview reveals the value of adaptability and perseverance in achieving success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Steve Jobs taught the value of focus and simplicity, emphasizing that making things simple is harder than making them complex.
• 😀 The interviewee's first job was delivering papers at age 12, an experience that helped fund their college education and instilled a strong work ethic.
• 😀 College was seen as an opportunity to open doors, and the interviewee was the first in their family to attend, viewing it as a privilege.
• 😀 Starting at IBM in 1983 was a significant milestone, marked by independence, personal responsibility, and a fresh start.
• 😀 Trusting their gut led to joining Apple during a time when it was near bankruptcy, recognizing the potential for a turnaround.
• 😀 Steve Jobs had a unique focus on products and small teams, believing they could accomplish extraordinary work by prioritizing innovation.
• 😀 Jobs also valued hiring the best people, being open to change, and the ability to adapt quickly when presented with new ideas or evidence.
• 😀 The interviewee learned from Steve that effective management involves being open to debate and collaboration, where good ideas always prevail.
• 😀 The interviewee’s passion for logistics and manufacturing stemmed from a fascination with how things are made and industrial engineering.
• 😀 The interviewee emphasizes that being a CEO involves both fun and challenges, expressing how much they enjoy their job despite the demands.

Q & A

What is one of the key lessons Tim learned from Steve Jobs?

Tim learned the value of innovation and that small teams can accomplish remarkable things. Steve also taught him to surround himself with the best people who challenge him and to be confident in their skills.

How did Tim's first job help him in his later career?

Tim's first job delivering newspapers at age 12 instilled a strong work ethic in him. It also contributed to his college education, as he became the first person in his family to attend college, recognizing it as a privilege.

What made Tim trust his decision to join Apple when Steve Jobs recruited him?

Tim was impressed by Steve Jobs' unique approach as a CEO. Jobs focused on products, particularly consumer products, and emphasized the potential for small teams to do extraordinary work. This vision resonated with Tim.

How did Tim feel about Apple when he joined during a tough time for the company?

Tim joined Apple when the company was on the verge of bankruptcy. Despite advice against joining, Tim saw potential in Apple and believed in Steve Jobs' vision, which ultimately led to a successful turnaround.

What lesson did Tim learn about changing one's mind from Steve Jobs?

Tim learned from Steve the importance of being flexible and open to changing one's mind when presented with new evidence. Steve's ability to change quickly, even on major issues, was a skill Tim deeply admired.

What role does manufacturing play in Tim's passion for logistics?

Tim has always been curious about how things are made, which stems from his background in industrial engineering. He views the supply chain and manufacturing as an art form when done correctly, where different components come together to create something extraordinary.

What sacrifices has Tim made to reach his current position?

Tim has sacrificed sleep in pursuit of his career goals. However, he enjoys coffee, which helps him stay energized.

What is Tim's morning routine like?

Tim wakes up early and immediately begins checking emails, particularly customer feedback about Apple products. He values both positive and critical feedback, which helps him stay in touch with the company's pulse.

How does Tim handle criticism?

Tim has developed thick skin and tries to evaluate criticism objectively. He asks himself if it's accurate rather than immediately defending the company's actions.

What does Tim enjoy most about his job as a CEO?

Tim finds his job incredibly enjoyable and fulfilling. Unlike some other CEOs who may find their roles taxing, Tim loves what he does and views it as a fantastic experience.