Apple co-founder Steve Jobs said a manager's job is not to indulge employees but to make them better, according to Inc. Managers who avoid difficult conversations to protect employee comfort perform a disservice, leaving workers in the dark and depriving capable staff of opportunities for self-improvement.
In a 2008 interview with Fortune magazine, Jobs outlined his duties as Apple chief executive officer and explained why leaders must address tough issues. He described his work as uniting Apple divisions, clearing obstacles, securing resources for key projects, and encouraging talented employees to improve. Jobs noted that leaders cannot expect exceptional performance while withholding required information, authority, time, or tools.
Inc. added that constructive feedback must be timely and specific, providing employees with an action plan for the future rather than a bruised ego.
Family technology limits
The New York Times journalist Nick Bilton previously revealed why Jobs prohibited his children from using iPad tablets. Jobs told Bilton that he and his wife restricted home technology use for their children. The family gathered around a large kitchen table each evening to talk about books, history, and design, keeping phones, iPads, and computers away from shared dinners.
Jobs biographer Walter Isaacson, who spent extensive time with the family for the official biography, confirmed those evening habits.
