What will you learn from Richard Branson?
(This is from Edition 71 of The Upleveler, our weekly smartletter)
The founder of the Virgin Group has led life his own way
Richard Branson was such a born maverick that his headmaster predicted he would either end up in prison or become a millionaire. What can leaders learn from Branson? Here are five ideas worth thinking about, curated from Branson's own writings and from stories about him.
Give people a second chance: Branson believes so deeply in this dictum that he is associated with 'Working Chance' (an organisation that helps once convicted women find employment). How do you deal with mistakes made by your staff?
Consider Mission Statements: Branson likes them because they can help bind and inspire the entire team. But he advises us to keep them as short as possible. Do you have a mission statement that works for your team?
Embrace the "David" in you: Branson loves positioning his businesses as the Davids taking on the Goliaths of every industry. Being David means being atypical, agile, and adventurous. Are these qualities you can adopt?
Use a Notebook: Branson is a ferocious note-taker. He makes lots of lists: of tasks, ideas, and future-shots. Do you have a good note-taking system that acts as a companion to your mind?
Laugh and be seen laughing: Branson is notorious for his April Fool's Jokes, some of which have even backfired. He also carries that spirit into dealing with adversity. What about you?
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