A conversation with Steve Ballmer
Steve reflects on his time at Microsoft as CEO and how a commitment to developing new skills helped the company progress.
To be great, you have to have some combination of irrational confidence and realism that says, yeah, everything’s a mess right now, but it’s going to be okay. Oh, and persistence.
Steve Ballmer
Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith sits down with Steve Ballmer to reflect on his time at Microsoft, the shift to becoming CEO, and passing the torch to Satya.
Steve remembers the growing pains—including that time he and Bill didn’t speak for three days—and how irrational confidence, realism, and persistence sparked their vision. Steve’s commitment to innovation and developing new skills made Microsoft progress and stay accountable in the competitive tech industry.
Steve proudly remains a Microsoft booster, with an obvious affection, fondness, and loyalty for everything he helped build.
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