Think differently. Speak up.
These were the themes on which Tim Cook based his speech at Bocconi University in Milan.
On November 10th, the Apple CEO spoke at the inaugural event of the new academic year at Bocconi. For the first time, Tim Cook spoke at an event outside the United States, choosing one of the most prestigious universities that trains the managers and leaders of tomorrow.
The values that inspire and guide the American giant are those that, according to Cook, future generations should use to create opportunities capable of building a better world:
# Diversity
Apple’s vision, “Think different,” has always provided guidelines for creating innovative products, but it’s not just about that. For the company, diversity is a value and creates opportunities. The team is made up of people with different ideas and backgrounds. Different perspectives, stories, and experiences allow for much more productive discussions, leading to innovative results.
# Connection
To improve and advance the world, Apple believes the first step is to be connected with each other, sharing moments and ideas. Sharing and interacting with others drives creativity and productivity, enabling us to find solutions that can change the current state of things.
Tim Cook’s message to Bocconi students is to take advantage of the possibilities and technologies available today, which were not there years ago. Citizens of individual states have become citizens of the world and can make their voices heard much more resonantly.
In his speech, the Apple CEO also took a few minutes to praise the Italian case, made up of small and medium-sized enterprises that give products the importance that is often forgotten. Excellence, expressed in better design and higher quality products, is seen as a core value; the only thing to do to “do” and not just a means to get rich and make money.
