During this latest solo episode of Gen X Amplified, I am introducing a new "theme" that I'm starting called "What I've Learned...". And for this episode I will breakdown the 5 key lessons that I learned from my time working at one of the most iconic brands ever… HBO.

I was employed at HBO from 2003-2008. And it was during that time (what many consider to be the "golden age' of HBO), I witnessed many of the inner workings of why HBO is such a successful brand.

There are many virtues I believe that are responsible for the greatness of the HBO brand, yet I wanted to focus on five (5) specific areas that are applicable to many elements of brand development in today's competitive marketplace.

So below are the 5 key lessons that I learned from working at HBO:

1. Stay true to your brand DNA - because brands matter
2. Take big swings, be first, and/or disrupt the market
3. Provide an exceptional and inviting employee experience (EX)
4. Celebrate and deliver value to underserved markets
5. Focus on your personal brand management and peer advocacy

As Gen Xers, our unique and extensive experience gives us plenty of valuable nuggets and lessons to help guide us. Therefore we should be intentional about taking inventory of our experiences and our journey - both personally and professionally.

When we do this, we can cull out valuable lessons and insights that help fuel our ongoing personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Why the "Key Lessons I've Learned…" series is starting specifically with focusing on my experience at HBO
• What are the actual 5 Lessons I learned, and why they still apply for businesses and personal brands today
• How HBO On Demand was such a game changer in the world of subscription video on demand
• Why employee experience (EX) is a valuable element for a brand
• Why you (especially as a Gen Xer) should take self-inventory of your unique and vast experience to unlock key lessons learned
• Why the value of having a unique an acute focus on your brand DNA is critical
• And so much more!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• HBO.com
• 1983 classic HBO "Feature Presentation" promo
• Cinemax -Star Wars Double Trilogy in HD announcement
• Gen X Amplified episode #043 on How to Develop a Powerful Personal B.R.A.N.D.
• Adrion Porter's Website

Thank you for listening!