Lessons in branding and packaging from Lady Gaga, The New York Times talks style & the lessons apply to entrepreneurs

Standing out in the crowd is important in any industry, but especially the pop music world.  Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, otherwise known as Lady Gaga, has managed to launch herself into the pop culture with a bang selling over 8 million albums in 2009.  Lady Gaga is the personification of personal branding, and the lessons of Lady Gaga can be applied to any industry or brand.

Get inspired.  Lady Gaga is inspired by everyone from Grace Jones to David Bowie of the Ziggy Stardust era.  Who do you admire?  Whose career inspires you? Your inspiration can come from any area or industry.  Don't be afraid to take multiple inspirations or borrow bits and pieces from those you love.

Go bold.  There isn't an industry that isn't competitive, so it is only a question of how bold are you willing to go?  Lady Gaga walks around without pants in the winter in London, what are you going to do to stand out?  What is going to make you unforgettable and intriguing?

Commitment.  You really get the feeling from Lady Gaga that she willed this all into existence, it was pure commitment and dedication with a clear vision of her success. She had some talent, but by all accounts, she isn't an over the top singer or songwriter, she is a singer of average talent who writes catchy pop music; it is all the rest, including her drive and determination that has launched her to the stratosphere   Are you willing to do whatever it takes for your dream?

Thanks Lady Gaga, your ascension to the top has been a pleasure and inspiration to watch.

To read more about Lady Gaga in the New York Times click here >