Heroes come in all forms. When we think of a hero in a story, we think about the good guy, right? Well mostly. And in our programs, we take those fundamentals of a story hero to create epic business heroes.
But maybe they don’t start out that way… but through a transformation, they become the good guy you’re rooting for.
Take a moment to think of a hero…. in a movie, or a book (it’s usually the main character), a video game or even in your own life. They are usually the good guy, the one who saves the day or does something heroic. Also known as the protagonist.
Taking the hero “persona” of a story a little deeper, they tend to be in the everyday world who
- does something amazing to save others
- stands up to a bully/bad person/business
- fights for justice
- looks out for the good of those affected or that would be affected
- is bigger than themselves
So, I want you to understand when we talk about being a business hero, it’s more than just a catchy phrase.
It means something. It means something much more to
- your customers
- their families and your family
- business partnerships
- employees
- community
- your specific industry
- the causes you support
- and the places you sponsor
7 Types of Business Heroes:
1. Legendary (Epic) Business
Not currently as relative as they used to be, these epic businesses led the initial way in the industry, were prime in their time, follow traditional or “old ways” that may not have been updated yet or slowly – Kodak, Harley Davison,
2. Superpowered Business (Leading, Perfect Classic)
They are leaders today by standards of public interests, evolving product lines, continuous enhancements, technology advancements or ethical awareness. Aflac, Pepsi, John Deere, GE, Microsoft, Apple
3. Essential, Everyman Business
Traditional blue-collar businesses needed for the basic everyman where products or services may improve with changing times but the businesses themselves are common – doctors, lawyers, dentists, veterinarians, grocery/general stores, auto, home repair, apparel, taverns, restaurants.
4. Anti-Business
Just like the anti-hero in a story in conflict with what a hero truly means. They might not want be seen as the hero business in their industry, but they can and do perform acts that are considered morally correct. However, their reasoning for providing certain services or products may not be moral or typically driven, for reasons such as selfishness, fame or riches. They also usually go against the grain, don’t follow traditional success paths, question the traditional or legendary rules in place. These businesses may do things their “own way” or make their own path not looking to be the hero business but somehow manage to come out leading in their particular narrowed-down, deep niche.
5. Misfit Businesses
These businesses are those that are unusual, outlandish, new ideas or non-traditional. They may be liked or not liked, but will often have to struggle to get recognition, authority and push through strong competitive legends or superpowered businesses that lead the industry or have led for a very long time.
6. New, Entrepreneurial Business
Prodigy and start-up businesses, ready to learn everything they can to succeed and thrive quickly. Armed with gumption they are eager to take the number one spot if possible from legendary and superpowered businesses already leading with popularity and industry shares.
7. Fad Businesses
These types of businesses come about by sudden public need, interest and popularity that can be used as quick revenue generators but not long-term profits. They are in high demand at the peak of their popularity time, often fad businesses. Examples include: Ty Inc (Beanie Babies), Go Pro, Pan Am, Lava Lite, Kodak (even though it was a long-time business, the use for it rose high and then quickly subsided with new technology).
