We love stories about others who inspire us, wishing we were more like them. It’s why we watch sports, buy People magazine. It’s why we all have heroes.

Your employees are no different. They seek to be inspired at work, too. They thirst to feel the thrill of being part of an organization led by someone who inspires them with the courage, wisdom, tenacity and tenderness they wish they had. Someone about whom they can tell stories of admiration to their families and friends. With whom being associated makes them feel special.

Few, however, are fortunate enough to reside in organizations where such a force exists. Maybe that’s why so few businesses are truly extraordinary? Because the head “story-maker’s” seat is empty? It’s one of the reasons I contend that the Job At The Top is seldom done well enough.

So, your Job At The Top includes giving them stories. To tell others. That inspire them to be like you. By consciously seeking opportunities to be extreme. To be the lore they need. And the leader they’re proud to serve.

But be careful. Stories cut both ways – they can raise you on a pedestal. Or flatten you, bloody nosed, alone in the alley. The stories you want are the ones that emphasize alignment with business principles you want reflected by everyone else. In their own choices and behaviors.

It’s no mystery why General George Patton stood in the turret of the lead tank on assault, chrome battle helmet gleaming in the sun. Riding crop held high at salute. It’s no mystery why Herb Kelleher, CEO of Southwest Air, became the ultimate “fun guy.”

Both acted consciously to inspire the replication of their own devotions to the principles of their organizations. Be the lore. Look for opportunities to be extreme, in alignment with how you want your business to be. To inspire your employees, customers, suppliers, business partners, banker, investors – and yes, even your competitors’ employees!

Plus … it’s a lot of fun!