Melinda Gates on working at Microsoft while dating CEO Bill Gates: "This was tricky"

The speaker shares her experience of dating the CEO of her company. Initially, she was hesitant due to her career ambitions and parental advice against it. However, she found the CEO to be interesting and kind-hearted. To maintain professionalism, she was transparent about the relationship at work and set clear boundaries to separate her personal and professional life, ensuring her team felt supported.

What was the speaker's initial thought about dating Bill?

• She immediately saw it as a long-term commitment.

• She was excited and confident about the relationship.

• She thought it would be interesting but was unsure about the future.

• She was hesitant and decided not to pursue it.

How did the speaker's mother react to her dating decision?

• She was supportive and encouraging.

• She was indifferent and had no opinion.

• She advised against it, thinking it was a bad idea.

• She was excited and wanted to meet Bill.

What approach did the speaker take to manage her relationship with Bill at work?

• She kept it a secret from everyone.

• She made it known and set clear boundaries.

• She discussed work matters with Bill at home.

• She avoided all interactions with Bill at work.

Why was it important for the speaker to have 'bright lines' in her professional life?

• To prevent any work-related stress.

• To focus solely on her personal life.

• To avoid any personal interaction with Bill.

• To ensure her team felt she was impartial and supportive.

What was the outcome of the speaker's strategy to separate her personal and professional life?

• It led to conflicts at work.

• It resulted in her leaving the company.

• It was unsuccessful and caused issues.

• It worked out well and was effective.