Having read the biography earlier this year, I rushed to the theaters to watch "Jobs" yesterday. Although the movie hasn't been getting the best reviews, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I was happy to see Ashton Kutcher embrace the character of Steve Jobs as well as he did. The movie really underlines that Apple is what it is due to Jobs' strong personality. Whether you love or hate his management style, there are things to be learned.
Steve Jobs appeared to have a strong sense of how far he is able to push other people in order to get what he wants when negotiating (albeit, that did eventually get him fired from Apple). From all the people I've heard of, Jobs strikes me most as someone who has a very strong presence and influence on people. I've come up with a quick list of what unique qualities he had that contributed to his success:
1. Stare Intensely - Steve Jobs was known to stare at people without blinking when he wanted to get his way. The people who have encountered it first-hand say that the look was so strong that you wouldn't dare disagree with Jobs during that stare. The focus he had influenced others to focus on the things he cared about as well. I'm not saying to stare people down to the point of severe discomfort, but it's clear that strong eye contact is very important when you are trying to influence someone.
2. Meetings while walking - Many of the key conversations Jobs had with people occurred while taking a walk. This was done for more than just enjoying the scenery. It brought efficiency. When we sit around in a meeting, we get comfortable and tend to get sidetracked or distracted from the decision we need to make. Next time you need to make a difficult decision or are facing a deadline, try having everyone stand up during the meeting. You will be amazed at how much quicker everyone will get to the point when thinking on their feet. Literally.
3. Attention to Detail - Aside from being a perfectionist about Apple products, Jobs was also very detail-oriented in all his public speaking engagements. He would hire people to edit his speeches for product launches and would practice delivering them for hours. Even the entire stage lighting had to be rebuilt once before a presentation when Jobs felt it wasn't 100% perfect. His self-discipline is what set Apple apart from the competition. What we say and how we say it matters if we want it to make an impact. If Steve Jobs didn't take his speeches lightly, neither should you be careless when presenting an idea that's important to you. (Read more presentation tips here)
Fun Fact: In the movie, Steve Jobs barely has any furniture in his house. This is very accurate because he had a very difficult time picking furnishings. He thought almost all furniture being sold was "too ugly" of a design to be in his home.
I hope the list helps you think more about whether or not you are a negative or positive influence on people through the way you carry yourself. But please, don't have a tantrum and get yourself fired in the process.
Happy D-Coding,
Darya
P.S. "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." - Steve Jobs
