YouTube CEO Reveals How To BUILD A BRAND & Achieve SUCCESS In 2023 | Susan Wojcicki & Jay Shetty | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

In this interview, Susan Wojcicki, the CEO of YouTube, shares insights into her journey and experiences in the tech industry. She discusses the importance of diversity in tech, the need for more women and diverse voices in the field, and the potential for making a difference through technology. Susan also talks about her management style, which she describes as supportive and visionary, and the value of mentorship and coaching. She highlights the challenges of balancing work and family life and the importance of celebrating both big and small successes. Susan reflects on her career and the changes she has witnessed in the tech industry, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation and prioritization.

Questions & Answers

Q: What were the initial perceptions of YouTube and how did you see its potential?

At the time of YouTube's acquisition by Google, there were not many believers in its potential. In fact, there was a well-known article that stated only a few would buy YouTube. However, I was able to see its potential due to my previous experience with Google's video product and my understanding of the power of user-generated content. People were not only eager to share their stories but also interested in seeing other people's stories, even if they were not professionally produced. This realization convinced me of YouTube's future success.

Q: How do you balance work and family life?

I prioritize my family and make sure to spend time with them. I wake up at the last minute possible to get my kids ready for school and exercise every morning to clear my mind. At work, I focus on what is most important for the company and have open discussions with my team about any issues or gaps that need to be addressed. In the evenings, I try to disconnect from work and spend quality time with my family. Reading before bed allows me to reflect and unwind.

Q: How do you communicate your supportiveness and approachability as a CEO?

I learned the importance of being there for my team from Bill Campbell, a Silicon Valley coach. He emphasized that it's important to know and support the people you work with. I take one-on-one meetings seriously, getting to know my team members personally and understanding what makes them tick. I want them to feel comfortable discussing both successes and challenges with me. For instance, I ensure that if there is an issue, it is addressed promptly and that my team feels I truly care about their well-being.

Q: How do you celebrate success within YouTube?

While it is important to acknowledge and celebrate successes, I believe it is equally crucial to focus on the present and what we are working on at the moment. I celebrate both big and small successes, such as product launches or improvements based on user feedback. However, I am more concerned with the everyday achievements and milestones that contribute to our progress. I believe in prioritizing the current tasks and staying focused on what needs to be done right now.

Q: What advice would you give to young people, especially young women, considering a career in technology?

I believe a career in technology is a great choice for everyone, including young women. The industry needs more diverse voices and perspectives to drive change. Technology offers opportunities to make a difference and contribute to meaningful projects. It is also a career field with high demand and growth potential. However, barriers to entry still exist, such as limited resources for teaching computer science in schools. I advocate for more inclusivity and accessibility in technology education to empower a broader range of individuals to pursue careers in tech.

Q: How do you determine if YouTube is changing fast enough?

The tech industry is constantly evolving, and it's crucial to keep up with the pace of change. However, I often feel that we are not changing fast enough. Prioritization plays a significant role, and I focus on what is most important for YouTube's future while recognizing that we cannot do everything. It is a challenge to balance the demands of the industry with the resources available. Regular evaluation of internal metrics and goals helps guide us in staying relevant and meeting the needs of our users and creators.

Q: How has the tech industry changed during your career, and what further progress is needed?

Since I started in the tech industry, it has grown significantly and become more diverse. We have seen positive changes in terms of gender representation, with more women pursuing careers in tech. However, there is still a need for more diversity in the industry as a whole. Computer science should be taught to everyone, but barriers such as limited resources and perceptions of difficulty prevent wider access. Continued efforts are required to foster inclusivity and provide equal opportunities for all backgrounds in the tech field.

Q: How do you ensure your management style remains supportive while making difficult decisions?

Although I strive to be supportive, it is also essential to make difficult decisions when necessary. I try to understand what is happening within the company and address any issues or gaps that need fixing. Open communication and transparency help me maintain a supportive environment. However, there are times when hard decisions must be made for the company's well-being. Balancing supportiveness with leadership requires adaptability and a focus on the bigger picture.

Q: Is there anything you wish you had been warned about before starting your career?

Persistence has been crucial in my career, but setbacks and challenges are inevitable. A warning I would have appreciated is that it won't always be easy and that not everyone will be supportive or helpful. However, believing in the mission and being persistent can help overcome obstacles. It is important not to give up and to remain committed to personal and professional growth.

Q: How do you prioritize your focus and make decisions regarding YouTube's direction?

Prioritization is essential in managing YouTube's direction. I focus on what I believe to be most important for the company's success, encompassing product development, user needs, and the external environment. It can be challenging to balance competing demands and understand what needs fixing or enhancing. Regular communication with key reports, staying informed about ongoing projects, and identifying areas of improvement are crucial aspects of decision-making. It is crucial to make and maintain a clear vision while accepting that it is impossible to tackle everything simultaneously.

Takeaways

Susan Wojcicki emphasizes the need for diversity in the tech industry, particularly the inclusion of more women and diverse voices. She believes that technology offers an opportunity to make a difference and encourages young people, especially women, to pursue careers in tech. Susan's management style prioritizes supportiveness and understanding, cultivating an environment where team members feel comfortable discussing both successes and challenges. She highlights the importance of celebrating not only major milestones but also everyday achievements. Susan acknowledges the fast-paced nature of the tech industry and the need for continuous innovation and prioritization. However, she also recognizes the limitations and encourages focusing on current tasks that contribute to progress. Additionally, Susan reflects on the changes in the tech industry and the progress made in terms of diversity, highlighting the continued need for inclusivity and accessibility in tech education. Finally, she underscores the importance of persistence and believes in remaining committed to personal and professional growth despite setbacks.