Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Richard Branson.
These CEOs are household names and celebrities and among a wave of leaders in the public eye. Jack Welch pioneered this mindset decades ago, and the idea is still growing. CEOs are celebrities, which means all leaders need to act like and be treated like celebrities.
As a CEO, you are an important person with an important role. People should be paying attention to you just like they pay attention to movie stars and singers. People–not just your employees–should know your name! You deserve all the perks and attention of being a celebrity because you are smart and successful. You’re the best, so you should soak up the spotlight!
CEOs who act like celebrities are a boost to their companies. When people know your name and recognize your power and accomplishments, it brings instant credibility to the company. That means more opportunities, higher stock prices, improved employee morale, and a better image for your company. You’ll bring in customers and employees simply because they want to be in your celebrity presence.
As a celebrity, people pay attention to what you have to say. You have their attention, which means you get to shape the narrative about your company. Instead of being a nameless, faceless CEO without any power, you can tell the story and share your message with the media and the world.
When you’re a celebrity CEO, your power and influence help the company get through downturns and challenges. You can also tap into a powerful network of other influential CEOs, which can take your company to the next level. Experts call this the “benefit of the doubt” effect that protects against pushback for performance and stock price downturns.
But even more than helping your company, acting like a celebrity helps your career. Celebrity CEOs are recognized as the face of their company. Instead of just saying your company had a great quarter, celebrities get their name attached to any company wins. And that’s how it should be! You’re the leader, so you should get the credit. People need to know your name!
Celebrity CEOs bring power and prestige, which leads to invitations to serve on boards and other industry and philanthropic groups. Power brings more power and is your chance to climb even higher.
Set yourself up for the future by building your brand now. You’ll get more opportunities to sit on boards, take over other companies, write books, speak, and more. Acting like a celebrity puts you in demand with a powerful (and lucrative) brand that will last beyond your current position.
So how can you become a celebrity CEO? You’ve got to make your voice heard and become an undeniable presence. Don’t let anyone question your authority. Take charge of every meeting and situation, and insert yourself into every event. Become a social media star and live the glamorous life you deserve. When you’re loud and always right, people can’t ignore you. They can’t help but pay attention to you.
CEOs need to be treated like celebrities. They deserve all the attention and accolades in the world. And you’re right there with them. If you want to be a great leader, act like a celebrity and watch your fame grow.
-The Outdated Leader
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Over the last 15 years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking and working with some of the world’s top leaders. Here are 15 of the best leadership lessons that I learned from the CEOs of organizations like Netflix, Honeywell, Volvo, Best Buy, The Home Depot, and others. I hope they inspire you and give you things you can try in your work and life. Get the PDF here.
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