Becoming Steve Jobs
by Brent Schlender & Rick Tetzeli
Summary
Becoming Steve Jobs pivots on the transformative period during Jobs' exile from Apple, focusing on how his time at NeXT and Pixar redefined his leadership style. Schlender and Tetzeli offer a nuanced narrative, especially in chapters like 'The Wilderness' which highlight Jobs' growth from brash entrepreneur to a more reflective leader. They draw extensively from Schlender’s personal interactions with Jobs, providing a more intimate portrait than Walter Isaacson's biography. The book is structured around key phases of Jobs’ life, weaving in interviews with colleagues and friends that reveal lesser-known facets of his personality. However, it doesn't dive deeply into the technical aspects of Apple's products, which might leave tech enthusiasts craving more detail.
Key Takeaways
-
1
The Wilderness: Jobs' time at NeXT and Pixar was crucial for developing patience and long-term vision.
-
2
The Partner Principle: Jobs learned to collaborate effectively, valuing strong partnerships over dictatorial control.
-
3
The Iterative Innovator: Jobs focused on refining existing ideas rather than seeking novelty for its own sake.
-
4
The Reality Distortion Field: Jobs’ ability to inspire near-impossible achievements by convincing others of his vision.
-
5
Apple's Second Coming: Jobs’ return to Apple hinged on revitalizing the brand through design and streamlined product lines.
Who Should Read This
Someone who is navigating a mid-career pivot and seeking inspiration from a leader who reinvented himself. If you’re fascinated by the evolution of leadership styles and how personal growth can impact corporate success, this is your book.
Who Shouldn't Read This
If you're looking for a deep dive into the technical aspects of Apple’s products and innovation processes, this book will disappoint. It focuses more on Jobs' personal development than on the nitty-gritty of technology.
Editor's Verdict
The most enlightening part is Schlender’s recounting of Jobs’ time at Pixar, showing his growth as a leader. However, the book glosses over the technical intricacies of Jobs’ work at Apple. Anyone facing a career crossroads and questioning their leadership style will find this book particularly resonant.
Ready to read Becoming Steve Jobs?
Get your copy on Amazon today.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
Brent Schlender is a veteran journalist with over two decades of experience covering the tech industry, notably for Fortune and The Wall Street Journal. Rick Tetzeli is a seasoned editor and writer, having served as Executive Editor at Fast Company. Their credibility on "Becoming Steve Jobs" stems from extensive interviews and long-standing professional relationships with Steve Jobs. Schlender co-authored "Inside Apple," while Tetzeli contributed to Fast Company's in-depth tech and business analyses.
