Be Observant
Every time Branson takes one of his planes and talks with the staff, customers and pilots, he said he takes out a notebook and writes down ideas.
For example, one day he noticed something about his flight attendants’ red shoes. “If they are digging into her heals, she is not going to want to smile for the customers,” he said. “The fundamental little details are absolutely critical.”
Be The Brand
Branson believes his adventurous personal life—he is famous for being an experienced daredevil and has set distance records in hot air balloons and raced powerboats across the ocean—helped to build his brand and create awareness for his companies.
Even when his boat sank, the airline division poked fun at him with an advertisement that ran the following day that said, “Richard, next time take a plane.”
Be Futuristic
He believes solar power is going to lead to an energy revolution that will transform the world. Solar is going to become so inexpensive people can live off the grid, he said.
Give Back
Branson's humanitarian initiatives range from protecting animals and the oceans to a group called The Elders whose mission is to work for peace and human rights.