Why Did They Stay? Steve Jobs Uncovers the Secret Behind Apple’s Loyalty

In 1997, Apple was on the verge of bankruptcy—just 90 days away from closing its doors, as Steve Jobs recounted. When Jobs returned to the company, things were even worse than he initially imagined. Yet, in the midst of the chaos, something remarkable caught his attention: the people who stayed. While many of the best might have been expected to leave, there were still talented individuals hanging on.

Steve Jobs, Co-founder, Apple

Photo: Getty Images

"I Bleed in Six Colors"

Jobs discovered a group of passionate employees who had a deep connection to Apple. When he asked why they remained, they responded with a simple yet powerful phrase: “I bleed in six colors,” referencing the old six-color Apple logo. This phrase signified their deep love for what Apple once stood for. These individuals believed in the company's values and its potential to rise again.

The Power of Passionate People

For Jobs, this passion and loyalty from the remaining team members fueled a desire to fight even harder to keep Apple alive. It wasn’t just about business survival; it was about preserving the values that had originally made Apple unique. The dedication of these individuals became a driving force to bring Apple back to life and re-establish it as a leader in the tech world.

Reviving Values Through Hard Work

With this renewed energy, Jobs and his team set out to rebuild Apple, focusing on the values and vision that once made it great. Their passion wasn’t just about a paycheck; it was about working toward something bigger—reviving a company that stood for creativity, innovation, and excellence. Jobs knew that these values could once again be Apple’s guiding light.

A Lesson for All Entrepreneurs

The story of Apple’s near collapse and recovery is a powerful reminder of the importance of passion and commitment. It shows how people’s dedication to a company’s core values can be the deciding factor between failure and success. When a team truly believes in what they are building, it becomes more than just a business; it becomes a mission.

Jobs’ story teaches us that, no matter how dire the situation, the right people with the right values can lead a company back to greatness. The passion of those who “bleed in six colors” is what kept Apple alive, and that same spirit continues to define the company today.

Listen to Steve Jobs:

Source: Steve Jobs in 2010, at D8 Conference (Full Video)