In a surprise guest appearance, Eric Schmidt, Google’s Executive Chairman, joined Laszlo and the audience in a conversation about Google’s early approach to HR. Schmidt opened saying that he approached his work with humility, similar to how he was with his teenage daughters – “I know they don’t listen to me, but every once in a while they say something that I’ve said to them and I know that they are listening.” Google works to create a workplace culture that maintains curiosity, while at the same time has just enough structure to keep the business running. He suggested anticipating changes, developing a five year plan, and looking for the kind of people who can drive your vision forward.

But managing in a new world of autonomy and empowerment requires establishing a culture of trust and transparency. Leaders need to have systems of checks and balances to empower their employees but also hold them accountable -- “trust but verify.” Schmidt said it is important to talk less and listen more, and to go with the best idea – not consensus.

An audience member asked Schmidt what keeps him awake at night. Schmidt shared that he knows the seeds of destruction of any company are sown inside the organization, but leaders often don’t act on them, even though employees see the issues.