Lex Fridman Podcast #362 – Ginni Rometty: IBM CEO on Leadership, Power, and Adversity
506 snips
Mar 2, 2023 
Ginni Rometty, the former CEO of IBM and author of "Good Power," shares her insights on leadership and resilience in the tech industry. She discusses the importance of preparing for challenges, emphasizing empathy and community service as key leadership traits. Ginni highlights the ethical implications of AI advancements and the value of diversity in decision-making. She also delves into her personal journey, navigating the complexities of corporate transformation and addressing imposter syndrome, particularly for women in leadership roles.
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IBM's Enduring Mission
- Ginni Rometty emphasizes IBM's enduring mission of doing essential work for the world.
- This includes historical contributions like Social Security and moon landing tech, and today's focus on software and consulting.
Challenge of Change at Scale
- Ginni Rometty found the biggest challenge leading IBM was changing it, especially how work gets done.
- She learned that changing processes and giving new tools are more impactful than just telling people to "go faster."
Hire for Willingness to Learn
- Ginni Rometty's hiring priorities shifted over time from experience to a willingness to learn.
- She prioritizes curiosity over expertise, especially in a dynamic industry.
