Embrace discomfort and seek new challenges for personal growth.
Leadership should be based on values and treating people with respect, not fear.
Deep dives
Embracing Discomfort and Growth
Jenny Rometty, the former CEO of IBM, shares her journey to becoming a successful leader and breaking gender barriers. She emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort and seeing it as an opportunity for growth. Rometty encourages individuals to constantly seek new challenges and learn new skills, as growth and comfort cannot coexist. She also highlights the need for companies to earn the loyalty of their employees and discusses the value of finding work that aligns with one's passions and values.
Redefining Power and Leadership
Rometty challenges traditional notions of power and leadership, advocating for a more respectful and inclusive approach. She believes that leadership should be based on values and treating people with respect, rather than governing through fear. Rometty encourages leaders to inspire others and empower them to realize their own power. She also emphasizes the importance of leadership in creating a positive work environment and fostering trust.
Navigating Change and Building Belief
Rometty shares her experiences leading IBM during times of significant technological change. She highlights the importance of navigating change and building belief among employees. Rometty discusses the need for leaders to define what their organization stands for and what should endure amidst changing circumstances. She also emphasizes the role of leaders in removing obstacles and creating a culture that embraces change and innovation.
Addressing Skills Mismatch and Promoting Diversity
Rometty emphasizes the importance of addressing the skills mismatch in the education system and promoting diversity in the workforce. She shares her belief that good jobs should be based on skills rather than solely on academic degrees. Rometty highlights the need for organizations to provide alternative pathways for individuals to develop skills and gain access to opportunities. She also discusses the value of diversity and the positive impact it can have on innovation and problem-solving.
Ginni Rometty rose through the ranks at IBM to become their first female CEO. After leading the iconic tech company from 2012 to 2020, Ginni chronicled the experiences and lessons learned in her memoir, “Good Power.” In a candid conversation at the Authors@Wharton series, Ginni talks with Adam about cultivating and harnessing influence, leading change through highlighting what will stay the same, and her cautious optimism about the future of AI. Transcripts for ReThinking are available at go.ted.com/RWAGscripts.
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