CEOs should not underestimate the power of their attention. A single, specific compliment on a junior employee's work can fuel that person's drive for months or even a year. This is a high-leverage leadership tactic, especially in remote or scaling companies.

To capture an executive's attention, don't describe what you do; describe the outcome you're driving. In an anecdote, an analyst told the Adobe CEO she was 'doubling revenue for Acrobat,' not just 'working on the Acrobat team.' This impact-first framing instantly conveyed her value.

Reed Hastings learned from a CEO who secretly washed his coffee cups. This act of service built incredible personal loyalty, but Hastings realized this must be paired with astute market judgment to successfully lead a company.

Delivering excellence in even the most trivial jobs, like making photocopies, can create disproportionate career opportunities. This mindset, demonstrated by Ann Miraco in her college admin job, attracts the attention of powerful people and signals potential far beyond one's current role, leading to mentorship and unexpected breaks.

Reed Hastings' most formative leadership lesson came from finding his startup CEO secretly washing his dirty coffee mugs at 4 AM. When asked why, the CEO replied, "You do so much for us. This is the one thing I could do for you." This simple act of humility and service created profound, lasting loyalty.

Early in his career, Bob Iger took responsibility for a significant failure in front of a powerful boss. This act, contrary to the instinct to deflect blame, communicated control over the situation and the ability to correct it. Taking responsibility is perceived by managers as more trustworthy, likable, and indicative of leadership potential.

Jane Goodall taking a moment to read a manuscript handed to her by a young Paul Rosolie in a 500-person line was the singular event that launched his career. Her endorsement opened doors to publishers, validating the idea that a small, thoughtful gesture from an established figure can be life-changing for emerging talent.

A powerful, personal experience, like witnessing an employee's emotional reaction to recognition, can serve as the authentic origin for a company-wide cultural initiative that drives engagement and sets a company apart.

People determine your character by observing your interactions with those who seemingly can't advance your career, like service staff. Acknowledging and thanking a podcast producer or an AV technician is an 'absurdly' small act that provides a powerful, memorable shortcut for others to understand your entire character.