

Being a Leader People Talk About with Bill McDermott
7 snips Jan 7, 2025
Bill McDermott, a seasoned technology executive and CEO of ServiceNow, shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from buying a deli in high school. He discusses what it means to be a leader who leaves a lasting impression. Bill emphasizes the importance of customer-centricity, shifting from hardware to cloud technology, and the need to truly listen to customers. He offers insights into navigating career choices, maintaining resilience, and focusing on one's strengths. Prepare to be inspired by his experiences and leadership philosophy!
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How A Teen Deli Launched Customer Obsession
- Bill bought a deli as a teen and used delivery, credit, and a video game room to outcompete larger rivals.
- Those customer-led experiments taught him to know who pays the bills and to serve unmet needs directly.
The Train Ride And The Guaranteed Badge
- Bill prepared obsessively for a Xerox interview and promised his dad he'd return with an employee badge.
- He spoke to other candidates, read the CEO's annual report on the train, and won the job by showing urgency and authenticity.
Win The First 100 Days
- Make and commit to a detailed 100-day plan when stepping into a new role.
- Use it to set clear priorities and prove early momentum to win trust and results.