In the world of business, great leaders aren’t just strategic thinkers—they’re also powerful communicators. The ability to inspire, engage, and command attention is just as important in the boardroom as it is on the Broadway stage. So what can executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals learn from actors who perform in front of thousands of people every night? Quite a lot, as it turns out.
1. Rejection is a Stepping Stone, Not a Stop Sign
Broadway actor Conner Gillooly shares advice from his salesman father: “Collect the ‘no’s’ because they get you closer to a ‘yes.’” In business, just like in theatre, rejection is inevitable. The key is to reframe it—not as a personal failure, but as a necessary step toward success. The best performers and leaders alike use rejection as fuel to refine their craft and sharpen their approach.
2. Mastering the Art of Presence
Ceili O’Conner, who plays Miss Mullins in School of Rock, highlights the importance of breathwork and mindfulness. Before stepping on stage, she centers herself with deep breathing and a focus on hydration. In the business world, preparation is just as crucial. When stepping into an important meeting or presentation, taking a moment to breathe and ground yourself can make all the difference in your delivery and impact.
3. Imposter Syndrome Is a Liar—Trust Yourself
Both Ceili and Conner have battled imposter syndrome. Their advice? Trust your preparation and your unique strengths. In leadership, it’s easy to compare yourself to others, but confidence isn’t about pretending—it’s about owning your expertise. If you’ve put in the work, you deserve to be in the room.
4. Body Language Speaks Louder Than Words
As actors, Ceili and Conner understand that communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you say it. Ceili points to three key physical anchors:
- Feet: Ground yourself for stability.
- Stomach: Engage your core for control.
- Chest: Keep an open posture to exude confidence.
In business, how you carry yourself can make or break a presentation. Slumped shoulders and poor eye contact diminish credibility, while strong posture and presence command respect.
5. Mistakes Are Gifts, Not Failures
One of the biggest takeaways from their experience on stage is that mistakes are not disasters—they’re opportunities. In theatre, when something goes wrong, the best performers use it to create something new. Business leaders should adopt the same mindset: when things don’t go as planned, pivot and innovate rather than dwelling on the misstep.
6. Playfulness Fuels Creativity and Connection
Conner emphasizes the importance of play in performance: “Every show is a new monster to conquer, but when I relax and play, the best moments happen.” The same applies to leadership—when you approach challenges with curiosity and a willingness to experiment, you unlock new solutions and foster more engaged teams.
Final Thoughts
Leadership is a performance, but that doesn’t mean it’s inauthentic. The best leaders, like the best actors, refine their craft, stay adaptable, and embrace the power of storytelling to inspire action. Whether you’re leading a team, closing a deal, or delivering a keynote, integrating these theatre-inspired techniques can elevate your communication and impact.
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