The Shift in Tech Leadership

The technology industry has undergone a significant transformation in its leadership over the past decade. The public's perception of tech leaders has shifted from viewing them as brilliant, yet humble, individuals to seeing them as egomaniacs seeking attention. This change is largely due to the industry's discovery that trust can be liquidated and converted into attention, which has led to a focus on self-promotion rather than core values.

What happened

The tech industry spent forty years building trust with the public by presenting itself as a group of brilliant, yet humble, individuals. However, over the last decade, the industry's leadership has changed, with many leaders now seeking to draw attention to themselves rather than focusing on their work. This shift is evident in the rise of social media, where tech leaders often share their personal lives and opinions, rather than just their work.

The cultural idea of the technologist has also changed, from being seen as a helpful, obsessive nerd to being viewed as a tech oligarch. This change is reflected in the way tech leaders present themselves, with many now focusing on building their personal brand rather than just their company.

The transition from 'helpful, obsessive nerd' to 'tech oligarch' can be simplified into three phases. The first phase, from the late 1970s to 2007, saw the rise of tech leaders like Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, who were viewed as brilliant, yet humble, individuals.

Why it matters

The shift in tech leadership has significant implications for the industry's reputation and the public's trust. As tech leaders focus more on self-promotion, they risk alienating the public and damaging the industry's reputation. Furthermore, the focus on attention rather than core values can lead to a lack of depth and substance in the industry's work.

The shift also reflects a broader cultural change, where the pursuit of attention and fame has become more valued than the pursuit of knowledge and expertise. This can have negative consequences, as individuals who are driven by a desire for attention rather than a desire to learn and contribute may prioritize short-term gains over long-term benefits.

How to think about it

To think about the shift in tech leadership, it's essential to consider the implications of prioritizing attention over core values. Tech leaders should focus on building their personal brand in a way that is authentic and reflective of their values, rather than just seeking to draw attention to themselves. Additionally, the industry should prioritize substance over spectacle, focusing on producing high-quality work that benefits society rather than just seeking to entertain or provoke.

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