Indian-Origin CEO, Who Earned More than Zuckerberg, Claims 400+ Firms Rejected Him 30 Years Ago
Success stories often seem like a fairy tale, with overnight success and a smooth ride to the top. However, the journey of Nikesh Arora, the Indian-origin CEO of Palo Alto Networks, is a stark reminder that success is often the result of perseverance, hard work, and a refusal to give up. Speaking to Humans of Bombay, Arora revealed that over 400 companies rejected his job application 30 years ago. Despite the rejections, Arora went on to become one of the most successful CEOs in the tech industry, earning more than Mark Zuckerberg and Sundar Pichai in 2023.
Arora’s journey began in the 1990s, when he was a young graduate from IIT-Delhi. With a strong academic background and a passion for technology, he set out to make a name for himself in the industry. However, his early days were marked by rejection and disappointment. Over 400 companies turned him down, with some not even bothering to print a rejection letter.
In an interview with Humans of Bombay, Arora spoke about his experiences, saying, “It was kind of cool…I saved all [rejection letters]…They’re my motivation.” He went on to add that some of the rejection letters were not even fully printed, a testament to the fact that he was considered unworthy of even a formal rejection.
Despite the rejections, Arora refused to give up. He continued to apply to job after job, determined to make a name for himself in the industry. His persistence eventually paid off when he landed a job at a small startup, which would later become a major player in the tech industry.
Arora’s journey is a reminder that success is often the result of perseverance and a refusal to give up. Despite being rejected by over 400 companies, he continued to push forward, driven by his passion for technology and his determination to succeed.
Today, Arora is the CEO of Palo Alto Networks, a $130 billion firm that is a leader in the cybersecurity industry. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work and determination, and a reminder that success is often the result of overcoming obstacles and persevering through challenges.
Arora’s story is an inspiration to anyone who has ever faced rejection or disappointment. His refusal to give up, despite being rejected by over 400 companies, is a reminder that success is often the result of perseverance and a refusal to give up.
In an age where instant success is often celebrated, Arora’s story is a refreshing reminder that success is often the result of hard work and determination. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and a reminder that success is often the result of overcoming obstacles and persevering through challenges.
As Arora’s story shows, success is not a destination, but a journey. It is the result of hard work, determination, and a refusal to give up. Arora’s journey is an inspiration to anyone who has ever faced rejection or disappointment, and a reminder that success is often the result of perseverance and a refusal to give up.
