Everyone needs role models in their life and if you’re consistently looking to grow, you need to have a role model. In essence, anyone could be your role model but most people tend to look for people who they admire, or who possess the skill sets that they want to learn.
For future leaders, having a good role model can allow them to learn skills, understand the business world and grow in an accelerated manner. The following are some leadership role models that you should follow:
1. Bill Gates – Microsoft
Interested in computers since the age of 13, it’s common knowledge that Bill Gates is a highly intelligent individual. His curiosity about computers extended to the machinations of the device and the coding. In 1975, he established Microsoft when MIT showed interest in an emulator the Bill Gates and Paul Allen had designed.
When IBM approached them in the 1980s to develop the code for the BASIC computer, Microsoft became a major player overnight. While he is often hailed as a college dropout, it should be noted that Bill had an SAT score of 1600 and easily got admission into Harvard. Even though he is retired now, Bill is an avid philanthropist who continues to contribute to society.
2. Jeff Bezos – Amazon
Founder of one of the biggest businesses in the world, Jeff Bezos was an extremely gifted student and won many awards and accolades in his school and college era. Always interested in computer science, Jeff Bezos started working in Wall Street till 1994. It wasn’t until he was traveling to Seattle from New York that he had the idea for Amazon.com.
By the end of the year, he had gotten funding and established the business. Amazon.com started out by only offering books and slowly expanded its inventory. Today, Amazon.com is valued at $25 billion and has played a huge role in revolutionizing the global marketplace.
3. Oprah Gail Winfrey
Starting out as just a talk show host, Oprah Winfrey is one of the biggest influencers and entrepreneurs. In 1983, Oprah landed a role as a talk show host. Her genuine interest in the people, sharing meaningful new stories and desire to the change the world endeared her to people.
By 1988, Oprah had established her own company, namely Harpo Studios. Apart from producing, Oprah has written books, acted in movies, introduced a line of readymade meals and more. Even over the years, she continues to donate to charity and actively take an interest in the local community.
4. Ingvar Kamprad – IKEA
Often teased for being stingy with his money, Ingvar Kamprad is the founder of IKEA and one of the richest men in the world. Despite this fact, Kamprad is actually proud of his stinginess. His strong belief is coupled with an unfailing demand to have something of the highest standards and quality.
This is an ideology which is reflected in IKEA’s products and services as well. His personal standard is something that he not only sticks to but makes sure is reflected in other areas of his life and his business.
Which out of these 4 leadership role models do you like best?
