Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff Reveals Pivotal Advice from Steve Jobs
In a recent revelation, Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff shared a transformative piece of advice he received from Apple co-founder Steve Jobs during a crucial moment in his entrepreneurial journey. The insight, which Benioff disclosed on “Lenny’s Podcast,” highlights the profound impact Jobs had on shaping Salesforce’s trajectory and the tech industry at large.
Benioff, who began his career as an intern at Apple before moving to Oracle and eventually founding Salesforce, found himself experiencing “entrepreneur’s block” in the early days of his company. Seeking guidance, he turned to his longtime mentor, Steve Jobs.
Jobs’ advice was characteristically direct and visionary. He urged Benioff to grow Salesforce tenfold within 24 months and emphasized the importance of securing a major customer like Avon. Most significantly, Jobs introduced the concept of building an “application economy,” a notion that initially puzzled Benioff.
After careful consideration, Benioff deciphered Jobs’ advice, concluding that he needed to create an app store for Salesforce. This realization led to the launch of Salesforce’s AppExchange in 2006, predating Apple’s App Store by two years.
The success of AppExchange was so significant that when Apple launched its App Store in 2008, Benioff made a gesture of gratitude by gifting the “App Store” trademark and domain to Apple. This act underscored the deep respect and appreciation Benioff held for Jobs’ mentorship.
Reflecting on his relationship with Jobs, Benioff expressed profound gratitude for the guidance that helped shape not only his career but also the direction of Salesforce. The story serves as a testament to Jobs’ far-reaching influence in the tech industry and his ability to inspire and guide fellow entrepreneurs.
As Salesforce continues to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape, Benioff’s recollection offers a glimpse into the collaborative spirit and mentorship that has driven innovation in Silicon Valley for decades.
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