Naomi Gleit's Insights on Working with Mark Zuckerberg
In a recent interview on Lenny's Podcast, Naomi Gleit, Meta's Head of Product and a long-time employee, shared her experiences working with Mark Zuckerberg. Gleit, who joined the company when it was still called Facebook, offered valuable insights into Zuckerberg's leadership style and personal philosophy.
One of the key takeaways is Zuckerberg's "learn-it-all" mindset. Gleit described him as someone who is constantly striving to learn and grow, exemplified by his impressive feat of achieving 8th-grade fluency in Mandarin within a year. This dedication to personal development reflects his desire to stay informed and adaptable in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Gleit also shared Zuckerberg's "four steps to approach life," which he presented to middle schoolers during an after-school business class. These steps emphasize the importance of understanding your purpose, focusing on what you can control, and never giving up. Gleit acknowledged the challenge of focusing on what you can control, highlighting the struggle between ambition and accepting limitations.
Furthermore, Gleit credited Zuckerberg for fostering a culture of honest feedback at Meta. Leaders are encouraged to provide direct input, even to Zuckerberg himself. This commitment to transparency helps maintain an accurate feedback loop and ensures that even high-profile figures receive genuine feedback.
Zuckerberg has also shown a willingness to be direct about Meta's goals and workforce expectations. In a 2022 town hall, he acknowledged that some employees might not align with Meta's direction, leading to the company's "year of efficiency" and subsequent layoffs.
As Meta celebrated its 20th anniversary, Zuckerberg reflected on his journey, expressing some regrets about allowing external criticism to shape the company's direction. He acknowledged that early feedback on his public demeanor led him to become "more careful and scripted," though he aims to feel more comfortable in his role as he matures.
Gleit's insights offer a glimpse into Zuckerberg's leadership style and personal philosophy, highlighting his commitment to learning, feedback, and direct communication. These insights provide valuable lessons for anyone interested in leadership and personal growth.