“The people who are doing the work are the moving force behind the Macintosh. My job is to create a space for them, to clear out the rest of the organization and keep it at bay.”
- February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011
- American
- Entrepreneur, businessman, industrial designer
- He brought to the world revolutionary products that combined technology and design at a high level, such as the personal computer Macintosh, iPhone, and iPad, and also revolutionized the music industry with the iPod, iTunes, and iTunes Store.
Quote
“The people who are doing the work are the moving force behind the Macintosh. My job is to create a space for them, to clear out the rest of the organization and keep it at bay.”
Explanation
In this quote, Steve Jobs underscores the importance of empowering the people who are directly involved in the creation of a product, such as the Macintosh. He acknowledges that these individuals—typically designers, engineers, and innovators—are the driving force behind the product’s success. Jobs’ role, he suggests, is not to do the hands-on work, but to provide an environment where these creators can thrive. By clearing obstacles within the organization and shielding the team from unnecessary distractions or bureaucracy, Jobs created a space where innovation could flourish.
This statement reflects Jobs’ leadership philosophy, where he acted as a facilitator rather than a micromanager, ensuring that his teams had the freedom and focus they needed to do their best work. His role was to remove the organizational clutter that could stifle creativity, allowing the team to concentrate on creating groundbreaking products. This approach was central to Apple’s success, particularly in the development of products like the Mac, which set a new standard for personal computers with its intuitive design and user interface.
In the modern world, Jobs’ leadership philosophy continues to influence successful companies, especially in the technology sector, where creative teams are often at the heart of innovation. By empowering talent and creating an environment free from unnecessary constraints, organizations can foster innovation and creativity that leads to products that transform industries. Jobs’ approach reminds us that the best results often come when leaders focus on enabling their teams rather than directing them, allowing individuals to flourish and drive the company’s success.
