READ TIME – 5 MINUTES
Undoubtedly one of the most influential and recognisable people on the planet, David Beckham has spent most of his life in the limelight.
Since he burst onto the scene with Manchester United, England’s former captain and jewel in the crown has never strayed too far from the limelight, finding himself in national and international news on more than one occasion (to say the least).
Despite the successes he’s experienced throughout his career, David Beckham has experienced his fair share of stumbling blocks, most of which have been broadcast to the world.
He’s recently discussed some of these issues in his new Netflix docuseries, Beckham.
(Have you managed to catch it yet?)
If you haven’t, it’s well worth the watch.
Not only does it provide an insight into the Beckham household, but it also contains several valuable lessons that all leaders can benefit from.
Let us explain all the lessons that, as a leader, you can learn from David Beckham.
Develop The Ability To Persevere Through Thick And Thin
David Beckham has experienced troubles, both with individuals and the nation.
His documentary sheds light on the infamous “Bootgate” incident where Becks Sir Alex Ferguson came to blows after a defeat to Arsenal in 2003.
This strained relationship with his boss ultimately led Becham to leave Manchester United.
And despite their relationship being mended, it never reached the levels it once did – something Beckham said he holds accountability for.
The special also taps into Beckham’s mental health after his red card vs Argentina in the 1998 World Cup.
David was public enemy number one, with the nation embarking on a witchhunt to make him pay for his non-existent sins. He admitted in the documentary that this incident heavily impacted his mental health.
“The whole country hated me,” he was quoted in the series, “I felt very vulnerable and alone. I wish there was a pill that you could take to erase certain memories. It changed my life.”
Despite the struggles, Beckham showed resilience and proved the nation wrong.
His redemption arc culminated in one of the highest points in his career – being made the England First-Team Captain between 2000 and 2006, leading the country at three international tournaments.
David demonstrated reliance, perseverance and determination to overcome obstacles.
Can you look towards Beckham to help you make key business decisions?
CEOs, Sales Managers and Team Leaders often face challenges that push them to their limits. Whether it’s a difficult prospect, a troubled employee or a tricky business choice, there’ll be a time when you have to make a crucial decision.
A Varied Network Is Essential
As one of the most recognisable names on the planet, Becks has had ample opportunities to build relationships with global superstars – and he’s taken full advantage of it.
Whether it was building lasting relationships with Princes William and Harry or hanging out with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, David Beckham has met some of the biggest names worldwide.
Networking is also something he’s taken advantage of in his football career.
David Beckham played for some of the biggest teams in the world, including
- Manchester United.
- Real Madrid.
- AC Milan.
- LA Galaxy.
- Paris Saint-Germain.
Not only did he win many titles with these teams, but it also helped him build relationships in the footballing world. These relationships would come in use later in his career as he set up the David Beckham leadership style…
Have you been networking in your leadership role? Do you have a strong relationship with people who can help your business grow?
A strong network cannot be undervalued. Build relationships that will help you prosper.
Always Think Of Your Next Idea
Despite his constant appearances in the limelight, David Beckham has always looked towards the future.
That’s because David is more than a world-class footballer – he’s a clever businessman who set himself up a lasting career in the sport seven years before his retirement.
Upon signing his deal with LA Galaxy in 2007, Beckham had the opportunity to purchase a future Major League Soccer (MLS) team for just $25 million. In 2014, he announced his intention to do just that.
This was a very shrewd decision, setting up the David Beckham leadership style we all recognise.
By the time Inter Miani (Beckham‘s team) was formed in 2018, prospective MLS teams were going for hundreds of millions of dollars.
Not only had Beckham become global news once again, he’d also saved himself millions upon millions of dollars.
Inter Miami hit the headlines again in 2023 when they signed 7x Ballon d’Or holder and one of the greatest footballers of all time, Lionel Messi.
This has been the peak of Beckham’s non-playing footballer career and. real achievement.
And the best part: this is a project that has been brewing ever since Beckham’s retirement.
Over 10 years in the making.
When was the last time you planned far into the future?
As a leader, you always need to be thinking about the future. You must explore the possibilities that can help drive business growth for years to come.
Of course, working in the here and now is still vital, but future-proofing your business will help maintain continuous growth.
How open would you be to future-proofing your business with external support?
Better Yourself Like Beckham
That’s how the David Beckham leadership style can influence you.
Are you ready to bend it like Beckham? Or are you heading straight for row Z?
AvA-V can help you win the business treble – just like Beckham helped Manchester United.
