As you surely know by now, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos has completed a brief flight into space last week in a rocket built by his private space company, Blue Origin. It was a story that grabbed headlines for many reasons, but today we will explore lessons that pawnbrokers and other business leaders could learn about personal branding and self-awareness, particularly when making public statements.
Bezos, when asked to comment on the experience, according to The New York Times, said:
“I also want to thank every Amazon employee and every Amazon customer because you guys paid for all of this,” during a news conference after his spaceflight.
It prompted swift critical reactions, including from a member of the House of Representatives who serves on the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee.
“Space travel isn’t a tax-free holiday for the wealthy,” said Representative Earl Blumenauer, Democrat of Oregon. “We pay taxes on plane tickets. Billionaires flying into space—producing no scientific value—should do the same, and then some!”
Bezos’ comments came amid questions about what Blue Origin’s launch says about wealth inequality as Amazon workers continue to struggle and #WealthTaxNow started trending on Twitter:
Meanwhile, the shape of Bezos’ rocket coupled with his maniacal laugh invited some comparisons to Austin Powers’ nemesis:
Whether you’re posting online or boasting in person, it’s important to remember that words also count when you’re a leader and communicating with peers or colleagues. You’ve got a lot to be proud of, but it’s important to stay in touch with what led you to that success—your customers and employees (even the ones that can drive you bananas).
