Jobs reportedly told Nike "Get rid of the crappy stuff"
Steve Jobs is often regarded as a visionary who rejoined a failing Apple in 1996 and propelled it to the top of the electronics industry. As a result, people are combing through Jobs' history to find the secret to his success. Carmine Gallo of Forbes stumbled on an interesting conversation Jobs had with Nike CEO Mark Parker.
After taking over the helm at Nike, Parker reportedly talked to Steve Jobs on the phone and asked him for advice. Jobs bluntly replied, "Nike makes some of the best products in the world. Products that you lust after. But you also make a lot of crap. Just get rid of the crappy stuff and focus on the good stuff." Parker responded with a chuckle, but Jobs remained silent. He was being serious.
This laser-like focus separates Jobs from other CEOs. Many companies throw a bunch of products into the market to see which one sticks. Apple is much more selective, picking and choosing those items that have the best chance for success when they are introduced. Yes, there have been a few klunkers in Jobs' portfolio, but you can't argue with the market domination of the iPod, iPhone and iPad.
[hat tip AppleInsider]
