Red carpets are more than just glamour in film. They’re a symbol of creativity, hard work, and collective success of an entire crew. A “red-carpet mindset” in leadership is a symbol of recognition, excellence, as well as the ability to motivate others. The most successful executives know that the success of a film is not about their own spotlight, but about lifting up the whole cast.
Bardya Ziaian embodies what it means to be an accomplished executive in the world of films and filmmaking, blending creative vision with strategic leadership to turn powerful stories into cinematic success.
Executives with a “red carpet” mindset lead with both vision, and with humility. Leaders with a red carpet mindset understand that leading is a collective effort, not just a solo performance. As a director would value each cinematographer or actor and every editor in a film, likewise, an outstanding leader appreciates every employee, every partner and every customer. This kind of appreciation encourages teamwork and inspires them to do their best every single day. Leadership excellence comes from showing others appreciation, recognizing their contributions, and fostering an environment that makes everyone feel special.
Preparation and authenticity are also important aspects of the red carpet attitude. Months of work are put into each scene before a film premiere. Like great executives, they prepare meticulously, strategize and execute precisely. These executives are not just there to show off, but they also shine as a result of the preparations that have been made behind the scene. As talented actors do, genuine leaders are able to connect deeply with audiences when they’re passionate about what they do. They do not inspire trust through perfectionism, but by consistency and purpose.
The red carpet mentality is also characterized by resilience. All successful films face challenges. From script rewrites and production delays, to the need for a new director. But those who innovate and persist end up making something special. The same is true for accomplished executives. Challenges are viewed as plot turns that enrich the story, not obstacles. Staying focused, adapting, and improvising, they ensure that any setbacks become part of the greater story.
In order to celebrate leadership excellence, it is important that you embrace the recognition of your work. This should not be seen as a sign of vanity, but instead as an acknowledgement. Great leaders recognize milestones in the same way that a premiere film celebrates group creativity. The leaders know that recognition fuels pride and engagement, which reminds the team that they are doing a good job. These leaders foster a culture where learning and progress are celebrated, as well as shared successes.
In the end, it’s all about legacy. The legacy of every great film is felt long after all the lights have dimmed, just as the culture left behind by a great leader will continue to grow. The greatest success of a successful executive is not how much applause he or she receives today, but what they do for the future. They lead with intention, empathy, and excellence–transforming every day into an opportunity to celebrate success in its truest form.
The red carpet in leadership is like the filmmaking: it’s not the end-point, but a way to reflect a journey of passion, teamwork, and purpose. If you walk down the carpet in pride, it means that you led your team with passion and purpose, as well as inspired others.
