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In the pantheon of business visionaries who have shaped our modern world, few names shine as brightly as Steve Jobs. The Apple co-founder's legacy extends far beyond the revolutionary products he helped create. Behind the iconic black turtleneck and commanding stage presence was a man who had observed a profound truth about truly exceptional people—a principle that may hold the key to authentic leadership and meaningful human connection.
“They all have had one characteristic in common, which is that they treat everyone the same, whether it's the janitor or the president of the company.”
According to Jobs, the truly great people he met in his life all shared this trait. They didn’t put on a different face for different people. They didn’t act superior to those beneath them or extra charming to those above. They treated everyone—no matter their status—equally.
Let’s unpack this simple but powerful idea.
Photo: Getty Images
The Ultimate Test of Character: How Do You Treat ‘Unimportant’ People?
Imagine walking into a restaurant. You see two people at different tables:
1️⃣ One is polite and kind to the waiter, saying “please” and “thank you.”
2️⃣ The other snaps their fingers to get attention, barely acknowledges the waiter, and leaves a mess on the table.
Now, imagine these same two people at a business meeting. Who would you trust more?
Most of us would say the first person—because how someone treats people when they have nothing to gain tells you everything about their character.
Jobs noticed that the best people in the world—whether they were world leaders or tech geniuses—had this one thing in common: they treated the CEO and the janitor with the same level of respect.
Why This Mindset Separates the Truly Great from the Merely Successful
Steve Jobs had the chance to meet some of the most powerful and influential people in the world. But he realized that power alone doesn’t make someone great.
The ones who truly stood out weren’t just talented or rich. They had humility, curiosity, and respect for everyone.
“Any question asked was the most important question that could have been asked at that moment.”
This means that whether someone was a billionaire investor or a student asking a question, they got the same level of attention and thoughtfulness.
That’s a rare quality. Most people adjust their behavior based on who they’re talking to. But the best don’t—they show up the same way, every time.
The Steve Jobs Way: Why It Pays to Treat Everyone with Respect
So why does this matter in business, leadership, and life? Here’s why:
1️⃣ You Never Know Who You’re Talking To
The intern you ignore today could be the CEO hiring you in 10 years. The receptionist you dismiss might be the decision-maker’s close friend.
Richard Branson, founder of Virgin, once said:
“Respect is how to treat everyone, not just those you want to impress.”
Jobs knew this. The smartest people treat everyone well, regardless of their title.
2️⃣ Genuine Respect Earns You Loyalty
Steve Jobs was famous for pushing people to their limits—but he also respected brilliant minds at every level. He cared about ideas, not job titles.
When people feel respected, they give their best work. They go the extra mile. And they stay loyal.
If you build a company (or even a personal brand) where everyone feels valued, you’ll have a team that will fight for your vision.
3️⃣ Your Reputation is Built on How You Treat ‘Small’ People
Jobs’ insight wasn’t just about kindness—it was about long-term success.
You can be the smartest person in the room, but if you disrespect people along the way, your reputation will suffer.
Think about it: Would you rather work with someone brilliant but arrogant, or someone smart and respectful?
Jobs understood that greatness isn’t just about talent. It’s about character.
How to Apply This to Your Life and Business
🔹 Pay attention to how you treat people when no one is watching.
The real test of character isn’t how you act in front of important people—it’s how you treat the ones with nothing to offer you.
🔹 Answer questions with real attention.
When someone asks you something—whether it’s a child or a CEO—treat their question as if it’s the most important thing at that moment.
🔹 Never underestimate anyone.
Some of the most successful people started at the bottom. The person getting coffee today might be leading a company tomorrow.
🔹 Respect is a habit.
Make it your default setting. Not because it looks good, but because it builds trust, relationships, and long-term success.
Final Thought: The Mark of True Greatness
Steve Jobs wasn’t known for being soft. He was demanding, he was intense, and he pushed people harder than they thought possible.
But he also knew that the way you treat people defines your legacy.
At the end of the day, it’s not just about building products, making money, or climbing the ranks. It’s about how you show up—for everyone.
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