A635.5.3.RB - Video Debrief of Team MA

In addition to his dream to create a company that would contribute to history, Steve Jobs and his team wanted to create a product built from the heart (Petrenko, 2012). In his conversations with his team, Steve noted that the most important part of their business was to build a company in which customers could feel and experience the organization’s care and passion (Petrenko, 2012). Steve Jobs and his team were major innovators who were willing to leave their jobs to launch their own company (Petrenko, 2012). The NeXT team was excited to discuss marketing strategies to sell their products to college students, and more than anything else, reiteration of the team’s vision was essential to their existence (Petrenko, 2012). NeXT team members were not afraid to openly disagree and challenge one another, yet, their challenges were not personal attacks; they challenged ideas for the good of the mission. Although NeXT team members were excited to start the company, many members were concerned about starting in light of their past failures; however, Steve reminded the team that past failures would not determine the success of their present goals (Petrenko, 2012). In the mist of his team’s fear and resistance, Steve let them know that if they did not launch their product, they would no longer exist as a company (Petrenko, 2012).

As I reflect on the NeXT team and Steve’s drive, I think about my views on management in relation to my Management Assessment (MA). According to the results of my MA, I am better suited for a large dynamic business environment, with an emphasis on change and growth. I learned that I prefer a stable job environment, and while I am willing to take job risks, I do not want those risks to impact my livelihood. For example, I am less likely to leave a job and start my own company if it means I may experience financial loss; the financial loss would impact my personal life. Based on the MA, I like rules, standards, and structures. I like to know what I am working on and I don’t necessarily require feedback from others if I am confident in what I am doing. In my debrief with Marissa, she noted that, based on my MA results, I would rather improve what has already been created. I have aggressive goals, which is good for a dynamic organization; however, my goals are internally driven. Marissa noted that I may experience conflict if my internal goals are not reflective of the goals of the organization. I like to be challenged and I get bored when I am no longer challenged.

Based on all that I learned about myself through my MA, I think I would keep the NeXT team grounded. Because I value structure and details, per my MA debrief, I would provide a good foundation for the team. My MA results also found that I am more focused on specific details and less focused on the big picture; Steve was more focused on the big picture. When working on teams, both detail-oriented members and big-picture members are needed. The NeXT team environment was one that allowed every member a voice; if I was a part of the team, I’d use my voice and take charge as needed, but I am also comfortable following. As one who is highly motivated to solve problems, I could use my skills to help the company navigate through roadblocks. Though I may find it challenging working within a small company, I do value working in small groups; therefore, I believe I would thrive as a member of the NeXT team. Although my strength is not innovation, I’d be working with innovators, and I’d be ready to improve what they have already created. Finally, like Steve, I am goal-driven; when I set a goal, I am confident that I can achieve it.

Petrenko, S. (2012, January 19). Steve Jobs Brainstorms with NeXT Team. Retrieved from YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loQhufxiorM&feature=youtu.be