Top quotes by Richard Branson

For a successful entrepreneur it can mean extreme wealth. But with extreme wealth comes extreme responsibility. And the responsibility for me is to invest in creating new businesses, create jobs, employ people, and to put money aside to tackle issues where we can make a difference. Votes: 39

Well, the odds must be against anybody being able to fly around the world in a balloon on the first attempt. All of us who are attempting to go around the world in balloons are effectively flying in experimental craft because these craft cannot be tested. Votes: 30

The music industry is a strange combination of having real and intangible assets: pop bands are brand names in themselves, and at a given stage in their careers their name alone can practically gaurantee hit records. Votes: 30

Business opportunities are like buses, there's always another one coming. Votes: 28

I was dyslexic, I had no understanding of schoolwork whatsoever. I certainly would have failed IQ tests. And it was one of the reasons I left school when I was 15 years old. And if I - if I'm not interested in something, I don't grasp it. Votes: 27

To me, business isn't about wearing suits or pleasing stockholders. It's about being true to yourself, your ideas and focusing on the essentials. Votes: 24

You don't learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over. Votes: 23

Well, I think that there's a very thin dividing line between success and failure. And I think if you start a business without financial backing, you're likely to go the wrong side of that dividing line. Votes: 18

The jet stream is a very strong force and pushing a balloon into it is like pushing up against a brick wall, but once we got into it, we found that, remarkably, the balloon went whatever speed the wind went. Votes: 18

I never get the accountants in before I start up a business. It's done on gut feeling, especially if I can see that they are taking the mickey out of the consumer. Votes: 15

We believe that within five years, 96 percent of British consumers will have access to the Internet, whether it be through a personal computer, a set-top box or a mobile phone. Votes: 14

You never know with these things when you're trying something new what can happen. This is all experimental. Votes: 14

Ridiculous yachts and private planes and big limousines won't make people enjoy life more, and it sends out terrible messages to the people who work for them. It would be so much better if that money was spent in Africa - and it's about getting a balance. Votes: 14

I wanted to be an editor or a journalist, I wasn't really interested in being an entrepreneur, but I soon found I had to become an entrepreneur in order to keep my magazine going. Votes: 13

The balloons only have one life and the only way of finding out whether they work is to attempt to fly around the world. Votes: 13

I don't think so, in that Virgin is already a global brand. Brands like Amazon have had to spend hundreds of millions of pounds you know, building their brands, whereas Virgin is already well-known around the world. Votes: 12

Well, we know that people in Australia love the idea of both Impulse and Virgin Blue getting up and adding a bit of competition, and it's fun to be able to deliver it. Votes: 12

I'm a lad of the '60s. I started a magazine to try and end the Vietnam war, but it was a number of years before I had the profile, the financial resources and the time to do more. Votes: 12

I think it's quite great to set yourself a big challenge, and then you've got another reason for keeping fit. Votes: 11

We've always had a pretty competitive and pretty ferocious battle with British Airways... It's lasted now about 14 years, and we're very pleased to have survived it. Votes: 10

You never know with these things when you're trying something new what can happen. This is all experimental." Votes: 10

Through the right people focusing on the right things, we can, in time, get on top of a lot if not most of the problems of this world. And that's what a number of us are trying to do. Votes: 9

My philosophy is that if I have any money I invest it in new ventures and not have it sitting around. Votes: 9

I love the freedom of movement that my phone gives me. That has definitely transformed my life. Votes: 7

My mother was determined to make us independent. When I was four years old, she stopped the car a few miles from our house and made me find my own way home across the fields. I got hopelessly lost. Votes: 7

If you want to be a Millionaire, start with a billion dollars and launch a new airline." Votes: 7

We're introducing separate rooms with double beds in all of our planes so people can actually go with their partner and have a proper night's sleep. Votes: 6

One thing is certain in business. You and everyone around you will make mistakes. Votes: 5

Life is a helluva lot more fun if you say yes rather than no" Votes: 4

We, we - as I say, we go in and shake up other industries and I think, you know, we do it differently and I think that industries are not quite the same as a result of Virgin attacking the market. Votes: 2

If you aim higher than you expect, you could reach higher than you dreamed. Votes: 0

So I've seen life as one long learning process. And if I see - you know, if I fly on somebody else's airline and find the experience is not a pleasant one, which it wasn't in - 21 years ago, then I'd think, well, you know, maybe I can create the kind of airline that I'd like to fly on. Votes: 0

I've used the Phoenix Centrifuge to replicate what the body's going to go through on the flight up. I've also done some gravity tests with ZERO-G [a charter-flight service in Arlington, Va., that uses modified Boeing 727s to simulate weightlessness], which went great. Votes: 0

I find it very difficult to think of mistakes; not that I don't make any but because I was brought up to look only at the good things in life ... As for what lost the most money, probably Virgin Cola. It is still No 1 in Bangladesh though. Votes: 0

Right now I'm just delighted to be alive and to have had a nice long bath. Votes: 0

I believe in benevolent dictatorship provided I am the dictator. Votes: 0

The best advice I got from my dad? Wear a condom. Votes: 0

The best advice I could give anyone is to spend your time working on whatever you are passionate about in life. Votes: 0

Early on in your career, find someone better than yourself to run the business on a day-to-day basis. Remove yourself, maybe even from the building, and from the nitty-gritty. That way, you're going to be able to see the bigger picture and think of new areas to go into. Votes: 0

Like getting into a bleeding competition with a blood bank. Votes: 0

There is no such thing as a boring person: everyone has stories and insights worth sharing. While on the road, we let our phones or laptops take up our attention. By doing that, we might miss out on the chance to learn and absorb ideas and inspiration from an unexpected source: our fellow travelers. Votes: 0

Learn to use your brain power. Critical thinking is the key to creative problem solving in business. Votes: 0

Your brand name is only as good as your reputation Votes: 0

Two bricklayers work side by side. The first lays bricks. The second builds magnificent cathedrals. Think small vs. think big. Votes: 0

Be swift to take advantage of business opportunities. Bigger companies are too cumbersome to move quickly; this can be a competitive advantage for you. Votes: 0

If you are seizing on a new business opportunity, deliberately move your customers' expectations up a few notches and consistently over-deliver on your promises - you will leave your competitors struggling to catch up. Votes: 0

It's far more difficult being a small-business owner starting a business than it is for me with thousands of people working for us and 400 companies. Building a business from scratch is 24 hours, 7 days a week, divorces, it's difficult to hold your family life together, it's bloody hard work and only one word really matters - and that's surviving. Votes: 0

As an adventurer...I try to protect against the downside. I make sure I have covered as many eventualities as I can. In the end, you have to take calculated risks; otherwise you're going to sit in mothballs all day and do nothing. Votes: 0

I'd like to see the government back a programme of research into the medical properties of cannabis and I do not object to its responsible use as a recreational relaxant. Votes: 0

With the casino and the beds, our passengers will have at least two ways to get lucky on one of our flights. Votes: 0

Everyone needs something to aim for. You can call it a challenge, or you can call it a goal. It is what makes us human. It was challenges that took us from being cavemen to reaching for the stars. Votes: 0

Colleagues should take care of each other, have fun, celebrate success, learn by failure, look for reasons to praise not to criticize, communicate freely and respect each other. Votes: 0

If I'm setting up a new business I'll spend three or four months learning everything there is about that business, everything there is about that subject and then I will find good people to run it on a day-to-day basis, but whilst they're running it at least I know what they're talking about when they come back to me. Votes: 0

Create the kind of workplace and company culture that will attract great talent. If you hire brilliant people, they will make work feel more like play. Votes: 0

The first thing to look for when searching for a great employee is somebody with a personality that fits with your company culture. Most skills can be learned, but it is difficult to train people on their personality. If you can find people who are fun, friendly, caring and love helping others, you are on to a winner. Votes: 0

I never learned the rules in the first place. To change the game is at the heart of what Virgin stands for, so the company culture has always been: "Don't sweat it: rules were meant to be broken." Votes: 0

I am a believer in trying to treat people properly and trying to respond and making sure that I find the time to be courteous. Votes: 0

I will work day and night to avoid failure, but if I can't, I'll pick myself up the next day. The most important thing for entrepreneurs is not to be put off by failure. Votes: 0

My definition of success? The more you are actively and practically engaged, the more successful you will feel. Votes: 0

As much as you need a strong personality to build a business from scratch, you also must understand the art of delegation. I have to be good at helping people run the individual businesses, and I have to be willing to step back. The company must be set up so it can continue without me. Votes: 0

It always pays off to focus on things that will make you feel proud. Remember this during every difficult decision you face. Votes: 0

Confidence breeds confidence and negativity breeds negativity. Treat those around you with respect and dignity and they will thrive. Votes: 0

Well, I think that there's a very thin dividing line between success and failure. Votes: 0

Have fun, work hard and money will come. Don't waste time - grab your chances. Have a positive outlook on life. When it's not fun, move on. Votes: 0

Perhaps my early problems with dyslexia made me more intuitive: when someone sends me a written proposal, rather than dwelling on detailed facts and figures I find that my imagination grasps and expands on what I read. Votes: 0

Being dyslexic can actually help in the outside world. I see some things clearer than other people do because I have to simplify things to help me and that has helped others. Votes: 0

I was trouble - and always in trouble. Aged eight I still couldn't read. In fact, I was dyslexic and short-sighted. Despite sitting at the front of the class, I couldn't read the blackboard. Only after a couple of terms did anyone think to have my eyes tested. Even when I could see, the letters and numbers made no sense at all. Votes: 0

You're offering a great service. People are tuning in. So continue to find great people, continue to do what you're doing. And do it better than your rivals. I know that's easier said than done... Votes: 0

The Virgin brand is not a product like Coca-Cola or Famous Grouse whisky; it's an attitude and a way of life to many. That attitude is about giving customers a better time and better value in a fun way that embraces life and seeks to give the customers something new. Votes: 0

I believe that drudgery and clock-watching are a terrible betrayal of that universal, inborn entrepreneurial spirit. Votes: 0

If something can't be explained on the back of an envelope, it's rubbish. Votes: 0

There are millions of people out there who would love to become astronauts, who'd love to go to space - they'd love to look back at this wonderful world from space. That will be the engine that will enable us then to develop spaceships to transport people around the world at tremendous speeds in an environmentally friendly way. Votes: 0

Please be polite. Nothing in life should erode the habit of saying thank you to people or praising them. Votes: 0

An exceptional company is the one that gets all the little details right. Votes: 0

Making the extra effort to say thanks in a genuine, personal manner goes a long way. It is pleasurable to do, and it encourages more of the same good behavior. Votes: 0

Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again. Votes: 0

The idea that business is strictly a numbers affair has always struck me as preposterous. For one thing, I've never been particularly good at numbers, but I think I've done a reasonable job with feelings. And I'm convinced that it is feelings - and feelings alone - that account for the success of the Virgin brand in all of its myriad forms. Votes: 0

All of us have just got to find that time to look after our bodies. That helps us make sure that our mind is sharp. I know that when I'm feeling great and really fit, I can get in three or four hours more of really productive work. Votes: 0

If you want to stand out from the crowd, give people a reason not to forget you Votes: 0

Spend more time smiling than frowning and more time praising than criticizing. Votes: 0

Some 80% of your life is spent working. You want to have fun at home; why shouldn't you have fun at work? Votes: 0

Past failures unlock future successes Votes: 0

I like to set myself a new adventure challenge at least once or twice a year because I love that side of my life. I love getting fit and training for it. Votes: 0

You can't do a good business with a bad person. Find the right people to work with and you can't go wrong. Votes: 0

Good customer service begins at the top. If your senior people don't get it, even the strongest links further down the line can become compromised. Votes: 0

Screw the competition - focus on good customer service. Votes: 0

To be successful, you have to be out there, you have to hit the ground running, and if you have a good team around you and more than a fair share of luck, you might make something happen. But you certainly can't guarantee it just by following someone else's formula. Votes: 0

Success comes from delegating, risk-taking and having a good TEAM! Votes: 0

I'm sure if Brawn GP keep plying me with champagne and putting gorgeous Virgin girls either side of me, you never know! Votes: 0

I think great businessmen are more likely made than born. I don't know if it's from your upbringing, your parental background, the struggles you go through. In my own particular situation, I left school at 15 and I was struggling to survive in the jungle and that was a great education. So I think just getting out there, hands on, learning to survive teaches you a lot. Votes: 0

We always enter markets where the leaders are not doing a great job, so we can go in and disrupt them by offering better quality services. Votes: 0

I rely far more on gut instinct than researching huge amounts of statistics. Votes: 0

In the same way that I tend to make up my mind about people within thirty seconds of meeting them, I also make up my mind about whether a business proposal excites me within about thirty seconds of looking at it. I rely far more on gut instinct than researching huge amounts of statistics. Votes: 0

My number one rule in business, and in life, is to enjoy what you do. Running a business involves long hours and hard decisions; if you don't have the passion to keep you going, your business will more than likely fail. If you don't enjoy what you are doing, then you shouldn't be doing it. Votes: 0

I am a great believer that you need passion and energy to create a truly successful business. Remember many new businesses do not make it and running a business will be a tough experience, involving long hours and many hard decisions - it helps to have that passion to keep you going. Votes: 0

Have faith in yourself. Think yes not no. Live life to the full. Never give up. Votes: 0

I am no stranger to healthy competition-wor king hard and playing hard Votes: 0

Explore this next great frontier where the boundaries between work and higher purpose are merging into one, where doing good really is good for business. Votes: 0

I believe in myself. I believe in the hands that work, in the brains that think, and in the hearts that love. Votes: 0

Business is what concerns us. If you care about something enough to do something about it, you're in business Votes: 0

Irreverence ran on both sides of our family...my parents brought me up to think we could all change the world. Votes: 0

I believe in goals. It's never a bad thing to have a dream. If something is really what you want to do, just do it. Whatever your goal. Votes: 0

I have always lived my life by thriving on opportunity and adventure. Some of the best ideas come out of the blue, and you have to keep an open mind to see their virtue. Votes: 0

To be a real entrepreneur you always have to be looking forward. The moment you rest on your laurels is the moment your competition overtakes you. Votes: 0

I like to take chances on people, and whenever possible, promote from within - it sends a great message to everyone in the company when someone demonstrates a passion for the job and leadership skills at every step along the way and is rewarded with a leadership role. Votes: 0

LEARN FROM FAILURE. If you are an entrepreneur and your first venture wasn't a success, welcome to the club. Votes: 0

Life's too short. If you're passionate - stand up. Votes: 0

My philosophy in life is that you only live once. Live life to its fullest. Votes: 0

I've been lucky to have survived balloon trips, boating trips, you know, a lot of rather foolish things in my life, so I was definitely born under a lucky star. Votes: 0

I was born under a lucky star, and I have nothing whatsoever to regret. I wouldn't change a thing about my life. Votes: 0

We hope to create thousands of astronauts over the next few years and bring alive their dream of seeing the majestic beauty of our planet from above, the stars in all their glory and the amazing sensations of weightlessness and space flight. Votes: 0

There are quite a few things I've done that even I thought might have been one step too far. But if you are willing to make a fool of yourself and make people smile, as long as you do it with a sense of fun, you can get away with it. Votes: 0

Set impossible challenges. Then catch up with them. Votes: 0

In business, as in life, all that matters is that you do something positive. Votes: 0

What's the quickest way to become a millionaire? Borrow fivers off everyone you meet. Votes: 0

If you want to be a Millionaire, start with a billion dollars and launch a new airline. Votes: 0

The brand is only as good as your products, so.. if people have a good experience on Virgin Atlantic or if they have a good experience on Virgin trains or.. if they have a Virgin mobile phone and they can get straight through to our people and they're well looked after and then they'll try the next product that we launch. Votes: 0

Ever since I saw the moon landing as a young teenager, I was determined I would go into space one day. Votes: 0

Don't think what's the cheapest way to do it or what's the fastest way to do it. Think what's the most amazing way to do it. Votes: 0

A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts. Votes: 0

Most "necessary evils" are far more evil than necessary. Votes: 0

We should focus on what people get done, not on how many hours or days worked. Just as we don't have a nine-to-five policy, we don't need a vacation policy. Votes: 0

One of the best bits of advice I can give is, early on, when you're building a new business, try to find somebody to run it on a day-to-day basis to free yourself up to look at the bigger picture. Votes: 0

I may be a businessman in that I set up and run companies for profit, but when I try to plan ahead and dream up new products and new companies, I'm an idealist. Votes: 0

We Experiment Endlessly, With New Products, New Methods, New Companies And New Marketing. A Successful Business The Emphasis Is On Experiment And Development, Ideas Are The Lifeblood Of Business. Votes: 0

First of all, if you're setting up a new company, you want to try to find a brand that can work on a global basis. Votes: 0

Rather than getting nostalgic...embrace the new opportunities and challenges available to you now. Votes: 0

If you are a new startup company, try not to arouse the interest or suspicion of your competition; especially if they are a bigger company. They can crush you while you are still in your startup phase. Lie low while still strengthening your bottom line. Votes: 0

Our generation has inherited an incredibly beautiful world from our parents and they from their parents. It is in our hands whether our children and their children inherit the same world. We must not be the generation responsible for irreversibly damaging the environment. Votes: 0

Everything in your business can be outsourced... if you're not emotionally attached to doing it all. Votes: 0

There are no quick wins in business - it takes years to become an overnight success. Votes: 0

Have passion for what you do; believe in yourself and your product and your customer; persevere; delegate; listen. Have fun. Today, I add: "Do good". Votes: 0

I suspect in most companies, the public relations person is down at No. 20 in the pecking order. But here, he is fighting incredibly important battles. If a negative story starts running away with itself in the press and is not dealt with fast, it can badly damage the brand, and so we put enormous weight on our PR people. Votes: 0

Space travel will be like every other business. There will be competitors. . . . Thirty months from now, I'm confident we'll be flying people into space. Votes: 0

The quality of business communications has become poorer in recent years as people avoid phone calls and face-to-face meetings, I can only assume, in some misguided quest for efficiency. Votes: 0

If you don't succeed at first, there's no need for the F word (Failure). Pick yourself up and try, try again. Votes: 0

The best lessons are usually learned from failure. You musn't beat yourself up if you fail - just pick yourself up, learn as much as you can from the experience and get on with the next challenge...The brave may not live forever, but the cautious never live at all. Votes: 0

I think entrepreneurship is our natural state--a big adult word that probably boils down to something much more obvious like playfulness. Votes: 0

Setting customer expectations at a level that is aligned with consistently deliverable levels of customer service requires that your whole staff, from product development to marketing, works in harmony with your brand image. Votes: 0

Publicity is absolutely critical. A good PR story is infinitely more effective than a front page ad. Votes: 0

When I was young, every time I criticized someone, my mother would stand me in front of the mirror and say: 'The flaws you see in others are actually a reflection of yourself.' That taught me to pay close attention when I looked at others. Votes: 0

I was the kind of entrepreneur that never really felt I made it. When Mike Olefield's "Tubular Bells" [Virgin Records' first release] sold 8 or 10 million copies, I suppose, at age 19, I could've possibly retired on the money. Instead, I immediately pushed the boat and took that risk again. Votes: 0

You must have the courage to trust your instincts and be ready to question what other people don't. If you do that, you can seize opportunities that others would miss. Believe in yourself, and use everything you can - including the obstacles - to propel you along the road to success. Who knows what you might achieve? Votes: 0

Building a business is not rocket science, it's about having a great idea and seeing it through with integrity. Votes: 0

Running a business is making a difference in people's lives Votes: 0

I can honestly say that I have never gone into any business purely to make money. If that is the sole motive then I believe you are better off not doing it. A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts. Votes: 0

to be successful, you have to be out there, you have to hit the ground running Votes: 0

I have enjoyed life a lot more by saying "yes" than by sayings "no". Votes: 0

It's better to say nothing than spend 1,000 words or an hour speech saying nothing. Get to the point. Votes: 0

Red tape will often get in your way. It's one of the reasons I often carry scissors! Votes: 0

When people screw up, give them a second chance. Votes: 0

Screw it, just do it! Votes: 0

The ability to bounce back after a setback is the single most important trait an entrepreneurial venture can possess. Votes: 0

If you run a business, put on top your employees, then your consumers, and then your shareholders. Votes: 0

We had an electrical fault about 500 miles into the trip and lost more than half our fuel. We had a fire on the roof. And missed Los Angeles by 3,500 miles at the end of the trip and ending up in the arctic in a snowstorm. Votes: 0

About 40 percent of my time is spent on social issues and building new organizations, more for the benefit of the climate or health issues. Votes: 0

We will eventually build space science labs and hotels, prodding the capability for missions beyond the orbit of the Earth. Our space-hotel guests will be able to take breath-taking excursions, flying a couple of hundred feet above the Moon's surface in small two-man spaceships. In time, we will launch missions to Mars and beyond. Votes: 0

I would not be able to change a sparking plug and I would not be able to fly a spaceship or build a rocket or whatever. But what I am good at doing is finding brilliant people and surrounding myself with brilliant people. Votes: 0

Although my spelling is still sometimes poor, I have managed to overcome the worst of my difficulties through training myself to concentrate. Votes: 0

Starting a business is a huge amount of hard work... You had better enjoy it. Votes: 0

Entrepreneursh ip is a great leveller, since having the benefit of a wealthy background or a generous investor isn't always an advantage. The wonderful thing is that money is not the sole currency when it comes to starting a business; drive, determination, passion and hard work are all free and more valuable than a pot of cash. Votes: 0

But the majority of things that one could get stressed about, they?re not worth getting stressed about. Votes: 0

The important thing is that you've got a strong foundation before you start to try to save the world or help other people. Votes: 0

As much as you need a strong personality to build a business from scratch, you also must understand the art of delegation. Votes: 0

Build your own business team. Survival in business requires a synergy of skills. Votes: 0

Life is a helluva lot more fun if you say yes rather than no Votes: 0

New York to Tokyo could be less than an hour. You could be traveling at 19,000 miles per hour orbitally. After we've done the space program, we will be producing supersonic planes, which will go far, far, faster than Concorde. Votes: 0

Sometimes miracles come in pairs. Votes: 0

My biggest motivation? Just to keep challenging myself. I see life almost like one long University education that I never had - everyday I'm learning something new. Votes: 0

And obviously, from our own personal point of view, the principal challenge is a personal challenge. Votes: 0

When I started Virgin from a basement flat in West London, I did not set out to build a business empire. I set out to create something I enjoyed that would pay the bills. Votes: 0

Having a good network can be invaluable. It opens doors for you and allows you to enter into opportunities that are beneficial to your business. In this sense, 'who you know' is undoubtedly important, but to me 'what you know' is more important because once an opportunity shows itself, it is up to you to make the most of it, and this is down to your knowledge and skill. Votes: 0

A good idea for a new business tends not to occur in isolation, and often the window of opportunity is very small. So speed is of the essence. Votes: 0

My general attitude to life is to enjoy every minute of every day. I never do anything with a feeling of, 'Oh God, I've got to do this today.' Votes: 0

And you know, I've had great fun turning quite a lot of different industries on their head and making sure those industries will never be the same again, because Virgin went in and took them on. Votes: 0

Fortunately we're not a public company - we're a private group of companies, and I can do what I want. Votes: 0

The funny thing is people won't let me pay for things. I'll be in a restaurant and the manager will say, 'Oh no, it's on the house.' Votes: 0

Nobody's ever called me Sir Richard. Occasionally in America, I hear people saying Sir Richard and think there's some Shakespearean play taking place. But nowhere else anyway. Votes: 0

I cannot remember a moment in my life when I have not felt the love of my family. We were a family that would have killed for each other - and we still are. Votes: 0

I've been very lucky. I come from a very close family. Votes: 0

"I think the most important thing is that in the last seven days we've just had the greatest adventure of our lifetimes." Votes: 0

"I think the most important thing is that in the last seven days we've just had the greatest adventure of our lifetimes." "I'm inquisitive ... and I love a new challenge... and if I feel that we can do it better than it's been done by other people, we'll have a go." Votes: 0

... Our first priority should be the people who work for the companies, then the customers, then the shareholders. Because if the staff are motivated then the customers will be happy, and the shareholders will then benefit through the company's success. Votes: 0

...making profits is important because it keeps all our people in jobs and, you know, it keeps what we - what we've created going, but, you know, what we're - what I get my - what I'm proud about doing is creating companies which we're really proud of, you know, which we can really be proud of and a byproduct of that hopefully will be that they'll be profitable and be able to pay the bills. Votes: 0

[If] man creates the problem, surely man can solve it. Votes: 0

A business can be started with very little money. Votes: 0

A business is simply an idea to make other people's lives better. Votes: 0

A company is people "¦ employees want to know"¦ am I being listened to or am I a cog in the wheel? People really need to feel wanted. Votes: 0

A company is simply a group of people. And as a leader of people, you have to be a great listener, you have to be a great motivator, you have to be very good at praising and looking for the best in people. People are no different from flowers. If you water flowers, they flourish. If you praise people, they flourish. That's a critical attribute of a leader. Votes: 0

A company's employees are its greatest asset and your people are your product Votes: 0

A generation ago, the image was that you had to trample everyone else down to succeed; but I don't believe that makes good business sense Votes: 0

A good leader leads from the front. Don't get stuck in the office. Get out, meet people and listen to their stories. Votes: 0

A little humour is good for the soul - regardless of how old you may be. Votes: 0

A setback is never a bad experience, just another one of life's lessons. Votes: 0

A successful business must have a sound knowledge of its market and work on how its product or service will be different, stand out and improve people's lives. If you can ensure it responds to a real need in the market place, your business can punch well above its weight. Votes: 0

Above all, you want to create something you're proud of. Votes: 0

Actually, we did a fun April Fools' thing with Google a couple of years ago, which we called Virgle. And we looked for volunteers to go on a one-way trip to Mars. Votes: 0

After all - life is not a dress rehearsal! Votes: 0

Age isn't as important so long as you are surrounded by people you love, doing things you passionately believe in. Votes: 0

All good leaders listen to their people and empower them to go away and turn any innovative ideas they have into a reality. Votes: 0

All in all, the internet is a force for good, providing young entrepreneurs with access to an incredible wealth of information, has changed the way we see the world and is also a great source of innovation and entrepreneurial opportunities. Votes: 0

All successful people - not just entrepreneurs - have got things wrong over and over again before finding the right solution. Votes: 0

All you have in life is your reputation: you may be very rich, but if you lose your good name, then you'll never be happy. The thought will always lurk at the back of your mind that people don't trust you. Votes: 0

Allowing my people to have a good work-life balance by working flexibly is very important to me. Votes: 0

Always think, 'what's the worst that can happen' and have some kind of strategy to deal with it Votes: 0

An entrepreneur is somebody who is taking bold risks, is often doing things that have never been done before, trying to do things better. And an adventurer is challenging themselves, often doing things that have never been done before, seeing what they're capable of. In both cases, you've got to protect against the downside. Votes: 0

And [we hope to sell] the clean fuels to other airlines. I mean, the exciting thing about the breakthrough with clean fuels for the airline industry is there's only 1,700 pumps in the world that fill up the airlines. Votes: 0

And ever since then [I] have set up businesses basically out of frustration. I mean, I set up Virgin Atlantic with one second-hand 747 because I hated the experience of flying on other people's airlines. And I thought, you know, I could try to create the kind of airline that I'd like to fly on. And people liked it. Votes: 0

And from, you know, small ideas, bigger ideas emerge. So we're starting with suborbital space flights and we'll then go into orbital space flights and, you know, maybe one day we'll send people on a one-way voyage into the depths of space as per the science fiction trips. Votes: 0

And if after all this you eventually fail; don't take it personal. Don't be ashamed to start all over again. Votes: 0

And in the process, we have come up with fuels - algae-based fuels, isobutanol-based fuels and other fuels - that we think will power the planes in the future so that, you know, by 2020 I hope that our planes will be powered on fuels that are clean fuels and are not polluting the environment so that we'll have a green airline and an airline that actually has fuels that will be hopefully cheaper than the dirty fuels of the past. So [we're] doing good and also turning a profit at the same time. Votes: 0

Any idea can be a great idea if you think differently, dream big and commit to seeing it realized Votes: 0

Any successful entrepreneur knows that time is more valuable than money itself. Votes: 0

Anyone who makes an effort at whatever they hope to accomplish can, and will, seriously improve their chances of succeeding. Votes: 0

As a leader of people, you have to be a great listener, a great motivator, be very good at praising and bringing out the best in people. Votes: 0

As an entrepreneur, you've got to protect against the company going bust. And as an adventurer, you've got to protect against losing your life. It's even more important as an adventurer to get it right. Votes: 0

As men, we all have something to give. We all have the power to do our own part to stop the global pandemic of violence against women and girls. It is holding us all back. Votes: 0

As people's access to the internet grows we're seeing the sharing economy boom - I think our obsession with ownership is at a tipping point and the sharing economy is part of the antidote for that. Votes: 0

As we drifted to earth I sat up on the glass roof of the capsule, watching the beauty of the golden dawn as it broke over the desert. This was a day I never thought I'd see and the rising sun and growing warmth of the day seemed very precious. It made me aware that hard-won things are more valuable than those that come too easily. It reminded me to always enjoy the moment. Votes: 0

At the end, entrepreneurship is not about wearing expensive suits and earning a lot of money. It is all about being true to yourself, to your values in life. Your dreams. Votes: 0

Avoid litigations. They are expensive and consume loads of time but if you have got a good case and a better chance of winning; then fight it out. Votes: 0

Bakers bake bread, accountants manage accounts and entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality. Votes: 0

Be authentic and organic. It can't be forced or it won't work. And most importantly, have fun. Votes: 0

Be bold, brave and not afraid to fall on your face and ultimately you will succeed Votes: 0

Be creative. Innovate consistently on the little things that the big companies ignore. Little things often make big differences in business. Votes: 0

Be the best at what you do Votes: 0

Because I don't see Virgin as a company but as a way of life and I fully enjoy it, I don't think I'll ever retire. Votes: 0

Being an entrepreneur simply means being someone who wants to make a difference to other people's lives. Votes: 0

Believe in yourself and back yourself to come out on top. A fulfilling career is waiting for those brave enough to find it. Votes: 0

Branding is everything. A young girl once came up to me and told me I could be famous because I looked just like Richard Branson! Votes: 0

Brands always mean something. If you don't define what the brand means, your competitors will Votes: 0

Brave people don't live forever, but cautious people don't live at all. Votes: 0

Breaking the rules and challenging convention is in the DNA of every successful entrepreneur. Votes: 0

Breaking the rules and challenging convention is in the DNA of every successful entrepreneur. Doing things differently and solving problems with new, innovative and fresh approaches are the very reason many start-ups are able to compete and sometimes outpace the established market leaders. Votes: 0

Business has to give people enriching, rewarding lives...or it's simply not worth doing. Votes: 0

Business is the force of change. Business is essential to solving the climate crisis, because this is what business is best at: innovating, changing, addressing risks, searching for opportunities. There is no more vital task Votes: 0

Business leaders take things far too seriously, and forget that most of the time people spend in their lives is at work, and it should be fun. Votes: 0

By nature I am curious about life, and this extends to my business. Votes: 0

By working hard, by making the right moves, you can create your own luck, I think. But certainly luck plays a part. Votes: 0

Can you afford to ignore China? It's like saying you can afford to ignore the internet. I don't think so. Votes: 0

Capitalism has never stood back and examined itself properly. I think everybody knows that capitalism is the only thing that works, but is the current form of capitalism the best way of it working? Votes: 0

Chance favors the prepared mind. The more you practice, the luckier you become. Votes: 0

Choose great people and shine in their shadows Votes: 0

Clearly in the eyes of the consumer; the brand has not been diluted, but we must guard against that happening at all costs. Votes: 0

Commitment is not letting people down. That's very important in life. Votes: 0

Commitment is not letting people down. That's very important in life. If you say you're going to do something, make sure you do it. Just try never to let people down. Votes: 0

Communicate your passion clearly, concisely and with genuine conviction. Votes: 0

Communication: the thing humans forgot when we invented words. Votes: 0

Companies need to have a lot more flexibility with their people... . If somebody wants to golf around the world for two months, okay, well, maybe on an unpaid basis, let them do it. That sort of flexibility I think is incredibly important because most of our time, we spend at work. Votes: 0

Complexity is your enemy. Any fool can make something complicated. It is hard to keep things simple. Votes: 0

Conflicts often stem from a couple of leaders on both sides that are badly brought up. They'd rather go to war than compromise. And in business, you're competing with other companies all the time, but you don't end up going to war with each other. Votes: 0

Consider getting smaller in order to get bigger. Votes: 0

Customers shouldn't just think of your business as a place to buy a product or use a service - it should be a fun place to be. Votes: 0

Develop the business around the people; build it, don't buy it; and, then, be the best. Votes: 0

Doing good is good for business. Votes: 0

Don't just play the game "“ change it for good. Votes: 0

Don't be afraid to take that leap into the unknown. Votes: 0

Don't become a slave to technology - manage your phone, don't let it manage you. Votes: 0

Don't bother doing something unless you're radically different from the competition. Votes: 0

Don't hesitate to seek external help or advice where need be. Sometimes, it takes an external, emotionally unattached individual to detect your business flaws and render unbiased advice. Votes: 0

Don't think about making money, think about making a difference, spot where others are doing it badly and do it better Votes: 0

Don't wait till you are big before you begin building your brand. Build a brand from scratch alongside your business. Votes: 0

Dream big and you will be presented with the opportunity to lead the world on an incredible adventure. Votes: 0

Dream big by setting yourself seemingly impossible challenges. You then have to catch up with them. Votes: 0

Dreaming is one of humanity's greatest gifts - it champions aspiration, spurs innovation, leads to change, and propels the world forward. Votes: 0

Drive, determination, passion and hard work are all free and more valuable than a pot of cash. Votes: 0

Education doesn't just take place in stuffy classrooms and university buildings, it can happen everywhere, every day to every person. Votes: 0

Embrace a mistake and learn from it; don't regret them. Votes: 0

Engage your emotions at work. Your instincts and emotions are there to help you. Votes: 0

Enjoy life - you only get one. Votes: 0

Entrepreneurial business favours the open mind. It favours people whose optimism drives them to prepare for many possible futures, pretty much purely for the joy of doing so. Votes: 0

Entrepreneursh ip is not about getting one over on the customer. It's not about working on your own. It's not about looking out for number one. It's not necessarily about making a lot of money. It is absolutely not about letting work take over your life. On the contrary, it's about turning what excites you in life into capital, so that you can do more of it and move forward with it. Votes: 0

Entrepreneurship is about turning what excites you in life into capital, so that you can do more of it and move forward with it. Votes: 0

Every aspect of life is magnificent and wonderful. It's so important to keep fit and healthy. Votes: 0

Every business will face tough times. Votes: 0

Every business, like a painting, operates according to its own rules. There are many ways to run a successful company. What works once may never work again. What everyone tells you never to do may just work, once. Votes: 0

Every great movement in the world starts with a tiny group of people who simply refuse to accept a situation. Votes: 0

Every risk is worth taking as long as it's for a good cause, and contributes to a good life. Votes: 0

Every single astronaut who has come back from space comes back determined to do more to protect it. Votes: 0

Every success story is a tale of constant adaption, revision and change. Votes: 0

Every success story is a tale of constant adaption, revision and change. A company that stands still will soon be forgotten. Trying to provoke positive change is a principle we've embedded across the Virgin family for more than four decades. Votes: 0

Everybody has a camera on their phone these days, everybody wants a selfie or a picture, and the moment one person starts taking a picture everybody congregates around so I've become quite a fast walker. I don't like saying, "No," to people but by walking fast one might be able to avoid the first photo. Votes: 0

Exploration is a wonderful way to open our eyes to the world, & to truly see that impossible is just a word. Votes: 0

Failing can provide invaluable lessons and making mistakes and experiencing setbacks is part of the DNA of every successful entrepreneur. Votes: 0

Fantasizing about the future is one of my favorite pastimes. Votes: 0

Find somebody else to run your business on a day-to-day basis. Votes: 0

First and foremost, any business proposal I like must sound fun. Votes: 0

Flowers flourish when they're watered, and shrivel up when they're not. People are no different. The best leaders are the ones who look for the best in people. Votes: 0

Focus on your business strengths and keep its weaknesses away from the competition or public. Votes: 0

Follow your instincts and live with the consequences. Votes: 0

For a successful entrepreneur it can mean extreme wealth. But with extreme wealth comes extreme responsibility Votes: 0

Free publicity and word of mouth is probably the best and cheapest form of advertising. Learn to use it to your advantage. Votes: 0

From the first days of my career as an entrepreneur, I have always used my own and my team's lack of experience to our advantage. In fact, at our first venture, Student magazine, we used our newcomer status to secure great interviews and generate publicity - people were excited about our new project and wanted to get involved. Our inexperience fed our restless enthusiasm for trying new things, which became part of our core mission. Votes: 0

Fun is at the core of the way I like to do business and it has been key to everything I've done from the outset. Votes: 0

Fun is at the core of the way I like to do business and it has been key to everything I've done from the outset. More than any other element, fun is the secret of Virgin's success. I am aware that the ideas of business as being fun and creative goes right against the grain of convention, and it's certainly not how the they teach it at some of those business schools, where business means hard grind and lots of 'discounted cash flows' and net' present values'. Votes: 0

Fun is one of the most important - and underrated - ingredients in any successful venture. If you're not having fun, then it's probably time to call it quits and try something else, Votes: 0

Give your employees a mission that matches their ambitions. When you challenge people, they surprise you. Votes: 0

Global warming is another big area that we need to get on top of. [And] diseases in Africa, which we're also working on and seeing if we can make a difference on. And there are lots of issues that governments seem to be blind about. Votes: 0

Good brands reflect the histories of the time and the group of people that made them. They can not be copied. They can not be recycled. Votes: 0

Good people have always been at the heart of the Virgin business, and that's largely because we have tried to keep our business small, and our management teams tight-knit. I feel that small, compact companies, are better run. That is partly because people feel more connected in small companies. Votes: 0

Government and business must come together on the interlinked issues of conservation, economic development and renewable energy. There are literally thousands of businesses, many in the tourism industry, that depend on an intact marine environment for their long-term survival. Votes: 0

Grow internally first. Strengthen your bottom line first before considering external growth. Votes: 0

Growth does not always lead a business to build on success. All too often it converts a highly successful business into a mediocre large business. Votes: 0

Half the art of ballooning is to make your crashes so gentle that you can fool yourself into calling them landings. Votes: 0

Happiness doesn't come from making a fortune and owning lots of possessions. 'Stuff' doesn't bring happiness. Family, friends, good health and the satisfaction that comes from making a positive difference are what really matter. Votes: 0

Happiness is the secret ingredient for successful businesses. If you have a happy company it will be invincible. Votes: 0

Have fun do good and the money will come Votes: 0

Having a good network can be invaluable. It opens doors for you and allows you to enter into opportunities that are beneficial to your business. Votes: 0

Having a personality of caring about people is important. You can't be a good leader unless you generally like people. That is how you bring out the best in them. Votes: 0

Having colleagues nearby, whether at the beach or in a crypt, means the ideas are always flowing Votes: 0

Having no regrets makes way for the best piece of advice I can give - don't be afraid of failure. Votes: 0

However small a company, its founders should try to expand people's opportunities and choices. Votes: 0

However tight things are, you still need to have the big picture at the forefront of your mind. Votes: 0

I also know, as an entrepreneur myself, you face new obstacles every day and you need to have the perseverance to see them through. Votes: 0

I always tell other people to protect against the downside, and not risk roughing on new ventures, but I never stuck to that rule myself. Votes: 0

I am a great believer that you need passion and energy to create a truly successful business. Votes: 0

I am always working on the go. Votes: 0

I am always working on the go. I have never had an office that I work out of and work has become intertwined with my personal life. Fortunately I am able to work from my home and can answer my e-mails in the morning, play tennis or kitesurf in the afternoon to keep fit and have meetings or phone calls in between. Votes: 0

I am convinced that companies should put staff first, customers second and shareholders third - ultimately that's in the best interest of customers and shareholders. Votes: 0

I am impressed with just the enthusiasm for life and the fact that some of these people are in their 80's, even 90's, and they're absolutely determined to get out there and make a difference. Votes: 0

I am passionate about many things but conserving our planet and its species is a high priority of mine. Votes: 0

I am prepared to try anything once. Votes: 0

I believe a good leader brings out the best in people by listening to them, trusting in them, believing in them, respecting them and letting them have a go. Votes: 0

I believe a great company, whether improving a sector or creating a new one, needs to have an excellent product or service at its core; needs strong management to execute the plan and a good brand to give it the edge over its competitors. Providing quality service, combined with value for money and in an innovative way ensures you offer real value - and finally to be responsible to society and the planet. Votes: 0

I believe that today's businesses - regardless of their size - must be prepared to do good in societies around the globe. I am cautiously optimistic that we can make the world a far better, safer and more equitable place - but business and enterprise must sit at the heart of this process. Votes: 0

I decided there must be room for another airline when I spent two days trying to get through to People Express. Votes: 0

I definitely go on gut instinct but it has always had the back up of research and information. Votes: 0

I do believe the harder you work, the luckier you get. Votes: 0

I don't think of work as work and play as play. It's all living. Votes: 0

I don't buy a lot of things. I like to create things. I've been lucky enough to be able to build my beautiful island in the Caribbean. I certainly haven't regretted that. Votes: 0

I drink about 30 cups of tea a day. I'm a complete tea addict. Votes: 0

I enjoy the company of other people. That's where I get most of my satisfaction from Votes: 0

I felt uneasy about making the rapid decisions I have always made, and wondered whether every decision should be formally ratified and minuted at a board meeting. Votes: 0

I had no plans to be an entrepreneur. I just wanted to be a journalist and write for a magazine. At 15, I just decided to leave school and launch a national student magazine. Votes: 0

I have always been a huge believer in the inestimable value good mentoring can contribute to any nascent business Votes: 0

I have always believed that business should be a force for good. Votes: 0

I have always believed that personal relationships are vital in business and that people should be directly accountable for their actions. Votes: 0

I have always believed that the only way to cope with a cash crisis is not to contract but to try to expand out of it. Votes: 0

I have always believed that there is no point in having regrets as you learn far more from mistakes than successes. Embrace a mistake and learn from it; don't regret them. Votes: 0

I have always lived my life by making lists: lists of people to call, lists of ideas, lists of companies to set up, lists of people who can make things happen. Each day I work through these lists, and that sequence of calls propels me forward. Votes: 0

I have always looked on my businesses not just as money-making machines, but as adventures that can, I hope, make people better off. Votes: 0

I have fun running all the Virgin businesses, so a setback is never a bad experience, just a learning curve Votes: 0

I have had a lot of fun pushing the boundaries on my balloon and kitesurf adventures, breaking some world records in the process, and I think this attitude of having fun whilst working hard is one that lends itself very well to successful entrepreneurship. Votes: 0

I have learnt more from my failures than my successes. Votes: 0

I have learnt so much over my 40 years of business which would have been valuable to me when I was younger. Votes: 0

I have never had an office that I work out of and work has become intertwined with my personal life. Votes: 0

I have no secret. There are no rules to follow in business. I just work hard and, as I always have done, believe I can do it. Most of all, though, I try to have fun. Votes: 0

I just kind of dive in if I think I can create something that will make a difference and then try to get the numbers to stack up after the event. So most of the things I've done I would not have done if I'd have asked the accountants to look at them before. Votes: 0

I just like to enjoy life and push myself. Of course, there is method to my madness. When you are entering into a new industry, for example, it helps to do something to get your name on the front pages. Votes: 0

I just love every minute of my life. I love the variety. Every minute of every day I'm meeting fascinating new people, learning and working with wonderful teams of people creating wonderful things. Votes: 0

I just love life. I mean, you know, I love every second of it. I love people. Votes: 0

I just think you need to spice up life every now and then with a bit of adventure and excitement. Votes: 0

I just wanted to create things that I could be proud of. Money was just an evil byproduct to pay the bills at the end of the year. Votes: 0

I know enough to know that no man is an island. Votes: 0

I learnt earlier on that If you can run one company.You can really run any company.A company is all about finding the right people and inspiring those people,drawing out the best in people Votes: 0

I learnt from an early age the need to delegate responsibility out to other team members as there is just too much for one person to do themselves. What is the point of hiring talented team members if you don't give them the freedom to make the most of the chance you have given them? Votes: 0

I like challenges in life and pushing myself out of my comfort zone. Votes: 0

I love eating meat, but I love our planet even more. So I will join this campaign and stop eating meat at least one day each week. Votes: 0

I love stirring the pot. I love giving big companies a run for their money - especially if they're offering expensive, poor-quality products. Votes: 0

I make up my mind about whether I can trust someone within 60 seconds of meeting them Votes: 0

I moved into a nice houseboat in Little Venice when I was 15 years old. I found a girlfriend called Monday and a houseboat called Friday, so I had the week sewn up. Votes: 0

I myself have benefited from many mentors throughout my life. Votes: 0

I myself have invested in Uber and Hailo, I think they offer great alternatives to disrupt markets that have remained unchanged for many years. Votes: 0

I never really felt secure until I was well into my 30s, because anytime I had success, I would invest in new projects. Votes: 0

I never set out to be a businessman Votes: 0

I never wanted to be a businessman, I just wanted to change the world Votes: 0

I never went into business just to make money - but I found that if I have fun, the money will come. I often ask myself, is my work fun and does it make me happy? I believe that the answer to that is more important than fame or fortune. If it stops being fun, I ask why? If I can't fix it, I stop doing it. Votes: 0

I never went into business to make money, but I have found that if I have fun, the money will come. Votes: 0

I personally don't believe anything is impossible. With enough determination and effort, almost everything is possible. Votes: 0

I prefer to have a great time and to keep my wits about me. Votes: 0

I read a fair amount [of science fiction], and you know it was certainly inspirational. I have to pinch myself to think that we might be able to make some of [what I've read in science fiction books] come true. Votes: 0

I set up this magazine called Student when I was 16, and I didn't do it to make money - I did it because I wanted to edit a magazine. There wasn't a national magazine run by students, for students. I didn't like the way I was being taught at school. I didn't like what was going on in the world, and I wanted to put it right. Votes: 0

I think a lot of becoming an entrepreneur is something which people have to learn just from getting out there and giving it a go, and having to learn the art of survival. Votes: 0

I think bands will actually make more money without record companies; a much bigger share of the money will go to the bands. You won't have record shops taking 40 percent of the money. You won't have record labels taking 40 percent of the money. So they don't have to sell as many albums as they used to in the past. So it's not necessarily a bad thing if record companies disappear. Votes: 0

I think because I have great difficulty saying the word, 'no,' almost every day's a different adventure. Votes: 0

I think business leaders all over the world should not just think of how we can make lots of money, which is fine, but to take some of the problems in the world and get out there and tackle them using business. I think that if businesses do that we can get on top of these problems. Votes: 0

I think business needs to have a heart and to have a heart a company must be more than just a moneymaking machine. Votes: 0

I think in life the key thing is just to fight really hard to make sure something survives. If it looks like you've done everything you can to avoid failure, just move forward, move on and learn from it. Votes: 0

I think it's important we continue to find new ways for start-up businesses to get access to funding, mentorship and business advice. Votes: 0

I think it's quite great to set yourself a big challenge and then you've got another reason for keeping fit. Votes: 0

I think I've learned that if you have a house, you end up living in the kitchen, so if you have one big kitchen and then enough bedrooms for your family, that's about all you need for a home. Votes: 0

I think that being a business a leader that treads all over people to get to the top is actually not the way I think to become a successful business leader. Votes: 0

I think that marijuana should be legalized. I think the only reason it isn't legal is because politicians who smoked it when they were young men or young women just don't have the courage when they become politicians to legalize it. Votes: 0

I think that not relying too heavily on one bank and one bank manager is a good rule to learn. Votes: 0

I think that you're going to get so much more out of life if you just say yes at every opportunity. Votes: 0

I think the thing about capitalism is it's an evil necessity, capitalism. Communism has been tried and failed, and socialism, that doesn't work very well. Capitalism works, but the problem about capitalism is it does mean that a few individuals become very wealthy. Therefore, I think those individuals have enormous responsibility to redistribute that wealth either by creating new businesses or creating new jobs and making sure that money just doesn't lie in a bank account for future generations. Votes: 0

I think you can get happiness through making a real difference in other people's lives by setting out to make other people's lives better and setting out to right the wrongs in the world. Votes: 0

I think you should do in life what you think you'll make a real difference at. And generally, as a businessperson, you do things you don't really have experience in. Votes: 0

I truly believe that capitalism was created to help people live better lives, but sadly over the years it has lost its way a bit. The short-term focus on profit has driven most businesses to forget about the important long-term role they have in taking care of people and the planet. Votes: 0

I want Virgin to be as well-known around the world as Coca-Cola. Votes: 0

I was fortunate enough, after many visits to many wonderful, weird people to come across Burt Rutan, who is a genius in the Mojave Desert. And SpaceShipOne was born and had three flights into space that won something called the X Prize. And from there, we're building SpaceShipTwo, which is ... a beautiful spaceship that is very, very, very nearly completed and will be ready from about next Christmas onwards to start taking people into space. Votes: 0

I was interested in creating things that I could be proud of and so, you know, I was interested in being an editor of a magazine, things that I could be proud of, and so, you know, I was interested in being an editor of a magazine, but in order to be an editor of a magazine I had to become a publisher as well. I had to pay the bills. I had to worry about the printing and the paper manufacturing and the distribution of that magazine. Votes: 0

I was never, ever interested in becoming a businessman or an entrepreneur. If I was a businessman, or saw myself as a businessman, I would have never gone into the airline business. Votes: 0

I've always had a soft spot for dreamers "“ not those who waste their time thinking "˜what if' but the ones who look to the sky and say "˜why can't I shoot for the moon?' Votes: 0

Ideally, since 80 percent of your life is spent working, you should start your business around something that is a passion of yours Votes: 0

Ideas Are The Lifeblood Of Business. Capture Every Fleeting Idea And Drive For Change. Votes: 0

If a chairman of a company visits Seattle, that chairman should take all the staff out in the evening and have a few drinks together, talk together and party together and not be embarrassed about the staff seeing the weaker side of you. Votes: 0

If family or friends are unwell or ill - it's perhaps the only thing that really can make one feel vulnerable. Votes: 0

If people are crazy enough to dare, impossible things happen. Votes: 0

If people are jumping down people's throats all the time, in the end, they'll just shrivel up like a flower shrivels up that's not watered. Votes: 0

If people aren't calling you crazy, you aren't thinking big enough. Votes: 0

If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes-then learn how to do it later! Votes: 0

If we can just get young people to do the same as their fathers did, that is, wear condoms Votes: 0

If you are glass half empty type of person, maybe you just haven't been holding the right glass Votes: 0

If you can make peoples lives a lot better, you've got a really good business. Votes: 0

If you can run one business well, you can run any business well. Votes: 0

If you can run one company, you can run another. Running companies are about inspiring and driving the best out of people. Votes: 0

If you create something that makes a difference in people's lives, you are likely to become a business success as well Votes: 0

If you do something for fun and create the best possible product, then the profit will come. Votes: 0

If you don't enjoy it, don't do it. You must love what you do. Votes: 0

If you don't have time for the small things, you won't have time for the big things Votes: 0

If you don't make bold moves, the world doesn't move forward. Votes: 0

If you don't take risks you won't achieve anything. Votes: 0

If you find yourself stuck in the middle there is only one way to go, forward. Votes: 0

If you follow your dreams and spend your life doing what brings you joy, you are more likely to find success Votes: 0

If you get into business solely to make money, you won't. If you try to make a real difference, you'll find success. Votes: 0

If you get into entrepreneurshi p driven by profit, you are a lot more likely to fail. The entrepreneurs who succeed usually want to make a difference to people's lives, not just their own bank balances. The desire to change things for the better is the motivation for taking risks and pursuing seemingly impossible business ideas. Votes: 0

If you get your face and your name out there enough, people will start to recognize you. Votes: 0

If you go back into military history, the person who's leading the troops ought to be in with the troops and not just standing on the backline sending them into battle. Votes: 0

If you have an idea that's going to make a big difference to people's lives, and other people are not doing it, you know, just say "screw it," do it and get on with it, and give it a go. Votes: 0

If you have conflicts, everything breaks down in society. Kids can't go to school. Basic health can't be looked after. Every aspect of society falls apart. Votes: 0

If you look after your staff, they'll look after your customers. It's that simple. Votes: 0

If you look for the best in your employees, they'll flourish. If you criticize or look for the worst, they'll shrivel up. We all need lots of watering. Votes: 0

If you love what you do and if you believe in what you do, others will share your enthusiasm. Passionate people find their way to the Virgin Group, and when they do, we snap them up and try to keep them within the family. Votes: 0

If you offer people a decent service, if you give them you know Internet access, if their phones are not cut off on the trains, you know if you have plugs where they can plug in their computers, and if you have a smiling, cheerful staff; and if you can travel really quickly, then you can make a success out of the rail business. Votes: 0

If you run your business fairly; if you treat people well; if you try to move your business into areas that are making a real positive difference to other peoples lives; I think you'll A. have much pleasant life, but B. I think you'll have a much more successful business. Votes: 0

If you spot an opportunity and are really excited by it, throw yourself into it with everything you've got. Votes: 0

If you take care of your workers they'll take care of your business. Votes: 0

If you want milk, don't sit on a stool in the middle of a field in the hope that a cow will back up to you. Votes: 0

If you want swashbuckling action in your life, become an entrepreneur and give it a go. Votes: 0

If young people do see me as an example (I'm very flattered if they do!) I hope it is as someone who will go out there and live life to the full. Votes: 0

If you're bringing up kids, you just want to smother them with love and praise and enthusiasm. So I don't think you can mollycoddle your kids too much really. Votes: 0

If you're hurt, lick your wounds and get up again. If you've given it your absolute best, it's time to move forward, Votes: 0

If you're looking to become an entrepreneur then don't waste your time going to university or business school - just get on and do it. Votes: 0

If you're lucky enough to have a few hundred thousand dollars in the bank account, that should be sufficient for your own personal needs, and anything more than that you've got to put to good use. Votes: 0

I'm a great believer in life to saying yes and not saying no, and hopefully making people smile and just having fun in life. Votes: 0

I'm a great believer that saying yes is a lot more fun than saying no. Votes: 0

I'm a true believer in working hard and partying hard. I'm fortunate to be one of those people who can have just as much fun partying without alcohol. Votes: 0

I'm not superstitious. I don't really believe in star signs, sorry, or superstitions. Votes: 0

I'm not the sort of person who fears failure. Votes: 0

I'm sure you get the best out of people if you look for the best in them. People don't need to be told when they've done something wrong - they know it without having to be told. Votes: 0

In 30 years time, as technology moves forward even further, people are going to look back and wonder why offices ever existed. Votes: 0

In a sense, when we started Virgin Atlantic, I was trying to create an airline for myself. If you try to build the perfect airline for yourself, it will be appreciated by others. Votes: 0

In Syria, if [Bashar al-] Assad had just been a statesman and handed over the reigns in time, Syria would not be heading down the nightmare that it is today. Votes: 0

In the '80's my gut feeling was that airlines were crap. I hated spending time on planes. I thought we could create the kind of airline I'd like. So we got a secondhand 747 and gave it a go. Votes: 0

In the beginning it was just about the business - now it's about the brand. Votes: 0

In times of recession there are massive opportunities and fortunes to be made, so for new up and coming entrepreneurs, this is the time to go and start a business. Votes: 0

India is an incredibly vibrant market, which Virgin already, through Virgin Atlantic, has the pleasure of working in. I am delighted that Virgin Comics will not only help to launch the Indian comic market and spin it into the West, but will develop new and exciting talent. Votes: 0

Innovation happens when people are given the freedom to ask questions and the resources and power to find the answers. Votes: 0

It can be a challenge not to let failure, or negativity from others, prevent you from going after what you believe in and what in your gut you know can work. However it is important to face these challenges head on and give them a go and importantly don't beat yourself up if you fail - just pick yourself up, learn as much as you can from the experience and get on with the next challenge. Votes: 0

It is important in life to turn adversity to success Votes: 0

It is important to remember that life is not a dress rehearsal and that none of us should waste our time on doing things that don't spark fires within us. My golden rule for business and life is: We should all enjoy what we do and do what we enjoy. Votes: 0

It is not for me (to decide). It is up to the company to decide whether the price is fair or not. Votes: 0

It is only by being bold that you get anywhere. If you are a risk-taker, then the art is to protect the downside. Votes: 0

It is the satisfaction of doing it for yourself and motivating others to work with you in bringing it about. It is about the fun, innovation, creativity with the rewards being far greater than purely financial. Votes: 0

It isn't effective or productive to force your employees to do anything. Choice empowers people and makes for a more content workforce. Votes: 0

It took me years to work out the difference between net and gross. In meetings I just used to say, 'Tell me if it's good or bad news. Votes: 0

It's all about finding and hiring people smarter than you. Getting them to join your business. And giving them good work. Then getting out of their way. And trusting them. You have to get out of the way so YOU can focus on the bigger vision. That's important. And here's the main thing....you must make them see their work as a MISSION. Votes: 0

It's clear that it is in the best interest of business to be part of the conservation, along with governments and civil society. Votes: 0

It's incredible to get people to turn out right in the middle of no where. Votes: 0

It's never easy to set up any business, but it comes back to determination and drive and the love of what you do! Votes: 0

It's obviously incredibly important to keep the body fit in order to keep the mind fit, and be able to find time for friends. Votes: 0

It's really important to find an hour or two to a day to make sure that you keep healthy, keep fit. It's very easy just to forget that aspect. And if you're feeling really good and fit, I think you can get two or three extra hours a day of hard work in as well. Votes: 0

It's so graceful to be blown by the wind, to go where the wind takes you. Just drifting over beautiful rivers in a balloon is perfect. Votes: 0

It's worrying to think more than half the world's population lacks internet access and therefore lacks an equal opportunity to improve their lives. Votes: 0

I've been in Africa, and I've been to hospitals of Africa, and they're not hospitals, they're places where people go to die. And rows and rows and rows of people just dying and the waiting rooms of the hospitals are full of people waiting to get into the beds of the people who died the night before, and they're dying from unnecessary diseases. Votes: 0

I've been taught not to have any regrets. If we were to add up all of the hours spent regretting mistakes and use that time to develop new ideas, who knows how many brilliant new businesses would be created. Votes: 0

I've been very lucky. I come from a very close family. I'm also in a relationship that's been really good. Lasted a long time. We've got wonderful kids from that relationship, and they've had the benefit of being together. It's fantastic to have that sort of togetherness. It's a rarity these days. Votes: 0

I've had many challenges - every entrepreneur does - it's the nature of the beast. Votes: 0

I've had to create companies that I believe in 100%. These are companies I feel will make a genuine difference. Then I have to be willing to find the time myself to talk about them, promote them and market them. I don't want to spend my life doing something that I'm not proud of. Votes: 0

I've never sued anybody, though there have been one or two occasions I've wanted to strangle one or two people. Votes: 0

I've obviously been born fortunate. I love people. I enjoy every single minute of my life. Votes: 0

I've taken many knocks over the years but it has only made me stronger and more determined to succeed. Votes: 0

Just start. You will learn so many lessons just by doing. Votes: 0

Just watching Israel bombarding Palestine and Palestine sending one or two little rockets over to Israel - it's just too sad for words. Votes: 0

Kite surfing is a great way of keeping fit. Kiting is great because you're bouncing over the waves and you're surfing the waves. I do quite long kite surfs-50 miles in a day. Votes: 0

Launching a business is essentially an adventure in problem-solving. Votes: 0

Lavish praise on people and people will flourish; criticize people and they'll shrivel up. Votes: 0

Lead by listening - to be a good leader you have to be a great listener. Votes: 0

Leading by fear is a lot of companies' approach, and a horrible way for people to exist in their lives, when most of your life is spent at work. Votes: 0

Learn to live on the edge. Votes: 0

Learn to look after your staff first and the rest will follow Votes: 0

Learn to raise capital by any means necessary. That's your primary job as an entrepreneur. You must continually raise capital from family and friends, banks, suppliers, customers and investors. Votes: 0

Learning and leadership go together. Too much credit goes to me for what we have achieved at Virgin but the successes happen from working and learning with some of the world's most inspiring and inspired people. Votes: 0

Life can seem rather unreal at times. Alive and well and loving one day. No longer there the next. Votes: 0

Life is a series of ups and clowns. Make it worth your wild! Votes: 0

Listen more than you talk. Nobody learned anything by hearing themselves speak. Votes: 0

Listen to the customer's complaint and act fast. Votes: 0

Listen. Take the best. Leave the rest. Votes: 0

London is one of the most exciting cities in the world with so many fantastic pubs and restaurants. I would urge people to get out there and see as much as possible. Votes: 0

Look for the best in people to build a fantastic team Votes: 0

Look, I think that when we started Virgin Atlantic 30 years ago, we had one 747 competing with the airlines that had an average of 300 planes each. Every single one of those have gone bankrupt because they didn't have customer service. They had might, but they didn't have customer service, so customer service is everything in the end. Votes: 0

Look, if you can indulge in your passion, life will be far more interesting than if you're just working. You'll work harder at it, and you'll know more about it. But first you must go out and educate yourself on whatever it is that you've decided to do - know more about kite-surfing than anyone else. That's where the work comes in. But if you're doing things you're passionate about, that will come naturally. Votes: 0

Loyal employees in any company create loyal customers, who in turn create happy shareholders. Votes: 0

Luck is when determination meets opportunity Votes: 0

Making money never was my incentive. I just want to fight big companies. Votes: 0

Many assume my business success has brought me happiness. But the way I see it, I am successful because I am happy. Votes: 0

Meet regularly with your business team and brainstorm. Intricate business problems are mostly resolved at brainstorming sessions. Votes: 0

Mentorship is key to unlocking each of our entrepreneurial spirits. Votes: 0

Money gives you the freedom to do with your time what you want to do with it Votes: 0

Money is a poor indicator of success. Votes: 0

Money is for making things happen. Votes: 0

Money is only interesting for what it lets you do and create. Votes: 0

Most entrepreneurs are not doing it for financial motives in the first place. They're just people who love creating. Votes: 0

Most entrepreneurs will admit luck plays a part in success. Votes: 0

Most of our businesses do succeed, but if something completely fails, then as long as we bow out gracefully and pay off all our debts, and nobody gets hurt, then I don't think people disrespect Virgin for trying. The public appreciates someone having a go; it appreciates the attempt. Who's been a success in life who hasn't failed? Votes: 0

Most people assume that a record shop's success lies in selling records. In fact, Virgin's success both in mail order and the record shops lay in skill at buying records. Votes: 0

Most skills can be learned, but it is difficult to train people on their personality. Votes: 0

My biggest motivation? Just to keep challenging myself Votes: 0

My interest in life comes from setting myself huge, apparently unachievable challenges and trying to rise above them. Votes: 0

My mother always taught me never to look back in regret but to move on to the next thing. The amount of time people waste dwelling on failures rather than putting that energy into another project, always amazes me. I have fun running all the Virgin businesses-so a setback is never a bad experience, just a learning curve. Votes: 0

My parents brought me up with this philosophy. You must do things. You mustn't watch what other people are doing. You must not listen to what other people are doing. Votes: 0

My people are at the core of everything I do, and I recognize the importance of giving them the flexibility to balance work around their personal lives. Votes: 0

My very first venture was a national student magazine to try to campaign against the [Vietnam] War. And so I wanted to be an editor. I wanted to bring the magazine out. And in order for the magazine to survive I had to worry about the printing and the paper manufacturing and the distribution. And, you know, I had to try to, at the end of the year, have more money coming in than going out. Votes: 0

Never go into business purely to make money. If that's the motive you're better off doing nothing. Votes: 0

Never look back in regret - move on to the next thing. Votes: 0

Never take your eyes off the cash flow because it's the life blood of business. Votes: 0

Never to be frightened of taking risks and always follow your instincts! Votes: 0

No failure means no risk, which means nothing new Votes: 0

No matter how big you are, details count! Votes: 0

Not enough people realize the satisfaction you can get from really pushing yourself to the limits. Votes: 0

Nothing else even comes close. Votes: 0

Of course an individual can make a huge difference but it is when those individuals come together with like-minded souls that they can change the world for ever and importantly for the better. Votes: 0

Of course, a lot of businesses want to reach students, so I funded the magazine by selling advertising. I sold something like $8,000 worth of advertising for the first edition, and that was in 1966. I printed up 50,000 copies, and I didn't even have to charge for them on the newsstand because my costs were already covered. Votes: 0

Oh God, I've got to do this today. Votes: 0

On conflicts, generally speaking, the world is a hell of a lot better to live in today than it was thirty years ago, despite what's going on in Syria. There are definitely hopeful signs that the world is moving, decade by decade, in the right direction. Votes: 0

Once a changemaker, always a changemaker but only a few swim against the tide. Votes: 0

One day offices will be a thing of the past Votes: 0

One key to entrepreneurial success is to get a great group of people around you who believe in your idea. Votes: 0

One night, I was chatting with a group of 16-year-old girls over a few drinks about a name for the record store ... A bunch of ideas were bounced around, then, as we were all new to business, someone suggested Virgin. It smacked of new and fresh and at the time the word was still slightly risqué, so, thinking it would be an attention-grabber, we went with it. Votes: 0

One thing is certain in business, you and everyone around you will make mistakes. Votes: 0

One thing is certain in business: you will make mistakes. When you are pushing the boundaries, mistakes are inevitable-how you react is important. Votes: 0

Only a fool never changes his mind. Votes: 0

Our model is to develop each business separately with its own shareholder and management - this way we can concentrate on the job in hand, rather than be part of some enormous and faceless conglomerate. Votes: 0

Over the years I have found one of my best strengths is my ability to recognise talent and trust them. Votes: 0

People are no different from flowers. If you water them, they flourish. If you are not nice to them, they shrivel up Votes: 0

People do not mind people who try things and fail. If you're a good entrepreneur, you're not going to succeed in every single thing you try. You've got to try to succeed at more things than fail. Votes: 0

People flourish if they're praised. Votes: 0

People have to decide on priorities if they want to get anywhere. The best lessons I learned was to just do it. Votes: 0

People who think and say we more often than I are a lot more likely to succeed. Votes: 0

Perhaps, therefore, it is odd that if there is any one phrase that is guaranteed to set me off it's when someone says to me, 'OK, fine. You're the boss!' What irks me is that in 90% of such instances what that person is really saying is, 'OK, then, I don't agree with you, but I'll roll over and do it because you're telling me to. But if it doesn't work out I'll be the first to remind everyone that it wasn't my idea.' Votes: 0

Play fair, be prepared for others to play dirty, and don't let them drag you into the mud. Votes: 0

Please don't get hung up on this question of whether you need to have experience in an industry before you launch your startup. Votes: 0

Protect your reputation. Don't be afraid of making mistakes. Votes: 0

Purpose is not an add-on, it's not an initiative. It is a culture change and it never finishes Votes: 0

Put your passions to work to make this world a better place. Votes: 0

Quality brands never go bankrupt. Votes: 0

Realize that the people who are working with you, this is their life. You know, 80% of their time is spent at work. Make sure that they're proud of what they're doing, that they're enjoying what they're doing. Votes: 0

Records are made to be broken. It is in man's nature to continue to strive to do just that. Votes: 0

Remain focused on fulfilling your business mission. Never allow adversity divert your attention and efforts. Votes: 0

Remember it's OK to be yourself. Votes: 0

Remember the to-do list but don't forget the to-be list. Votes: 0

Respect is how to treat everyone, not just those you want to impress. Votes: 0

Run lean; avoid unnecessary expenses. Votes: 0

Screw it, let's do it - Just get on with it and do it Votes: 0

Screwing business as usual fundamentally recognises that doing good is good for business. Votes: 0

Seek out strategic alliances; they are essential to growth and provide resistance to bigger competition. Votes: 0

Smiling can be a competitive advantage. It makes everyone feel better and every situation brighter. Votes: 0

Smoking marijuana, as long as you leave the nicotine out of it, is certainly no more damaging than having a drink, and I suspect better for you than having a drink. Votes: 0

So I became a publisher by mistake - well, not quite by mistake, because I wanted to be an editor but I had to make sure the magazine would survive. The point is this: Most businesses fail, so if you're going to succeed, it has to be about more than making money. Votes: 0

So I've seen life as one long learning process. Votes: 0

So unlike having to convert, you know, all the cars' or all the lorries' petrol stations, once you've actually got the clean fuels, it's relatively easy to, you know, get it to the airplanes. Votes: 0

Sometimes I do wake up in the mornings and feel like I've just had the most incredible dream. I've just dreamt my life Votes: 0

Sometimes the riskiest decision you can make is to do nothing. Votes: 0

Space is hard - but worth it. We will persevere and move forward together. Votes: 0

Succeeding in business is all about making connections Votes: 0

Success cannot be measured in wealth, fame or power, but by whether you have made a positive difference for others. Votes: 0

Success Comes from listening to your customer. Votes: 0

Successful entrepreneurs don't wait for the perfect moment - they create it Votes: 0

Surprisingly, a large number of people who fell out with their partners contacted us, saying that they would love to fly on a Virgle spaceship. But out of April Fools' jokes come real things, and I wouldn't be surprised, within the next 50 years, [if] there are one-way trips heading out into space with people on it. It would be very exciting. Votes: 0

Take a chance - it's the best way to test yourself, have fund and push boundaries. Votes: 0

Take the competition seriously, but not yourself. Votes: 0

Taking bold climate action now has the potential to unleash the full power of business and at the same time lift millions of people out of poverty. We're the first generation to recognize this and the last generation that will have this opportunity. Votes: 0

Talent comes from experience and failure Votes: 0

The amount of time people waste dwelling on failures rather than putting that energy into another project, always amazes me Votes: 0

The best advice I ever received? Simple: Have no regrets. Votes: 0

The best way forward is to give more people everywhere greater power to build their own destinies. Votes: 0

The best way of learning about anything is by doing. Votes: 0

The bigger the dream, the greater the opportunity Votes: 0

The brands that will thrive in the coming years are the ones that have a purpose beyond profit. Votes: 0

The companies that look after their people are the companies that do really well. I'm sure we'd like a few other attributes, but that would be the most important one. Votes: 0

The Earth cannot wait 60 years. I want a future for my children and my children's children. The clock is ticking. Votes: 0

The entrepreneurs who succeed usually want to make a difference to people's lives, not just their own bank balances. Votes: 0

The extraordinary thing about the record industry is how success can take off without warning. Votes: 0

The key is to set realistic customer expectations, and then not to just meet them, but to exceed them - preferably in unexpected and helpful ways. Votes: 0

THE KEY TO GENERATING LOYALTY AND RISING ABOVE THE GENERAL NOISE SEEMS TO BE ALL ABOUT CREATING AN AUTHENTIC VOICE. Votes: 0

The most breathtaking thing about being in space is actually looking back at the Earth. Votes: 0

The most important thing for entrepreneurs is not to be put off by failure. Votes: 0

The quickest way to become a millionaire in the airline business is to start out as a billionaire. Votes: 0

The risk is worth it. Mike would have been the first to say that. Votes: 0

The time to go into a new business is when it's badly run by others. Votes: 0

The truth is this: the Earth cannot provide enough food and fresh water for 10 billion people, never mind homes, never mind roads, hospitals and schools. Votes: 0

The war on drugs has gone on for about forty-five, fifty years - and it's been a complete failure. If you had a business that was failing so badly, you would change course. And it's just incredible that governments continue along the same course. Votes: 0

The way you treat your employees is the way they will treat your customers Votes: 0

The world is made of words. And if you know the words that the world is made of, you can make of it whatever you wish. Votes: 0

The years I would have spent at University, I spent building Student Magazine and Virgin Records. For me that was far more fun and satisfying. I have treated everyday as the University education I never had and think I learnt more about business and life than I would have at University in the process. Votes: 0

There are some nasty, nasty incidents taking place in the world, but [it's] much better than it used to be. Votes: 0

There have been times when I could have succumbed to some form of bribe, or could have had my way by offering one. But ever since that night in Dover prison I have never been tempted to break my vow.. My Parents always drummed into me that all you have life is your reputation: you may be very rich, but if you lose your good name you'll never be happy. Votes: 0

There is no greater thing you can do with your life and your work than follow your passions "“ in a way that serves the world and you. Votes: 0

There is no planet B. We have to take care of the one we have Votes: 0

There is no point in going into a business unless you can make a radical difference in other people's lives. Votes: 0

There is no point in starting your own business unless you do it out of a sense of frustration. Votes: 0

There is no real difference between work and play - it's all living. Votes: 0

There is so much to be learned from listening to people's hopes, frustrations, and points of view Votes: 0

There isn't a flight goes by when I don't stare out of the window and thank my stars for what I'm seeing and feeling. Votes: 0

There's no better satisfaction than watching the people around you, who have worked day and night to get something right, realising the dream. Votes: 0

THERE'S NO OTHER WAY to find out whether or not you'll be successful other than just doing it Votes: 0

There's nothing like the endorphins from being fit, and the incredible endorphin rush that goes with that. It beats drugs, drink, and almost anything else I know. Votes: 0

Those people who spend their time working on things they love are usually the ones enjoying life the most. They are also the ones who dared to take a risk and chase their dreams. Votes: 0

Those who achieve great things are the ones willing to be scared but not scared off. If you dream big and take risks, impossible becomes just a word. Votes: 0

Throughout my business life I have always tried to keep on top of costs and protect the downside risk as much possible. The Virgin Group has survived only because we have always kept tight control of our cash. But, likewise, I also know that sometimes it is essential to break these rules and spend lavishly. Votes: 0

Throwing yourself into a job you enjoy is one of the life's greatest pleasures! Votes: 0

To achieve consistently terrific customer service, you must hire wonderful people who believe in your company's goals, habitually do better than the norm and who will love their jobs; make sure that their ideas and opinions are heard and respected; then give them the freedom to help and solve problems for your customers. Rather than providing rules or scripts, you should ask them to treat the customer as they themselves would like to be treated - which is surely the highest standard. Votes: 0

To be a great leader, you must be a great listener Votes: 0

To get the respect of people, I think you've got to roll up your sleeves and lead with your people. The absolute key is treating your people well. Looking for the best in your people. Lots and lots of praise, no criticism. Votes: 0

To have created one of the most respected companies in the world. Not necessarily the biggest. Votes: 0

To launch a business means successfully solving problems. Solving problems means listening. Votes: 0

To stand still today is to go backwards...and quickly...! Votes: 0

To succeed in business you need to be original, but you also need to understand what your customers want. Votes: 0

Too many companies want their brands to reflect some idealised, perfected image of themselves. As a consequence, their brands acquire no texture, no character and no public trust. Votes: 0

Tough times are inevitable in life and in business. But how you compose yourself during those times defines your spirit and will define your future. Votes: 0

Train people well enough so they can leave, treat them well enough so they don't want to. Votes: 0

Two heads are definitely better than one and by brainstorming as a team and sourcing ideas from each other, you have a better chance of coming up with a strategy that will allow your business to overcome a setback or challenge. Votes: 0

Universities are fantastic places to gain knowledge on a subject, develop a personal network, explore your character and learn new techniques to approach problems. Votes: 0

Universities are fantastic places to gain knowledge on a subject, develop a personal network, explore your character and learn new techniques to approach problems. I do however believe that there is a strong argument for students who have an idea they are passionate about to just try and turn it into a reality. I fell into this category and I don't regret not going to University. Votes: 0

Unless you dream, nothing will happen. If you dream, you might be able to make your dreams come true. Votes: 0

Unless you dream, you're not going to achieve anything. Votes: 0

Values cannot be speedily forgotten if it is inconvenient or commercially expedient. Values have to have meaning and longevity; otherwise they are valueless. You cannot embrace innovation up to a point or only sometimes. Branding demands commitment; commitment to continual re-invention; striking cords with people to stir their emotions; and commitment to imagination. It is easy to be cynical about such things, much harder to be successful. Votes: 0

Virgin could never have grown into the group of more than 200 companies it is now, were it not for a steady stream of intrapreneurs who looked for and developed opportunities, often leading efforts that went against the grain. Votes: 0

Virgin, is how good you are with people. If you're - if you're good with people and you've got - you know, and you really care, genuinely care about people then I'm sure we could find a job for you at Virgin. I think, you know, that, you know, that the companies that look after their people are the companies that do really well. I'm sure we'd like a few other attributes, but that would be the most important one. Votes: 0

We [Virgin Group] have been successful not by wasting time scrutinising our competitors but by looking at ourselves from the point of view of our customers do and seeking feedback through listening. Votes: 0

We all are now very aware of what a connected world we live in - connected to each other and to the earth that gives us everything we have. We need all countries and companies to step up and play their part - setting strong goals, having clear plans, and openly demonstrating progress. Votes: 0

We don't actually plan to launch new businesses over the next few years, but we are planning to take the ones we have into new territories. Votes: 0

We have a business that some people feel pollutes, and I happen to agree with them. ... And so on the basis of trying to do good and, you know, hopefully turn a profit, what we did was we pledged that we'd put all the profits from our airline business into trying to develop clean fuels. Votes: 0

We have the enormous opportunity in our hands to make a positive difference for business, people, and the planet. Votes: 0

We love Formula One and think Formula One's great. But we think Formula E is different. We would be making a big mistake if we tried to compete with Formula One and be similar to Formula One, we have to be radically different to Formula One to have a chance of survival. I don't mean survival by beating Formula One but co-existing complimentary to Formula One. Votes: 0

We must rapidly wean ourselves off our dependence on coal and fossil fuels Votes: 0

We need a new way of doing business to get out of the present crisis ... Absolute greed has come close to bankrupting the world. Thanks to the crisis that certain businesses have dumped on everyone a lot of people are going to suffer on a global scale. All of us must learn. It is all the more important that those business leaders that are left standing try to be a force for good. Votes: 0

We need government and business to work together for the benefit of everyone. It should no longer be just about typical "corporate social responsibility" where the "responsibility" bit is usually the realm of a small team buried in a basement office - now it should be about every single person in a business taking responsibility to make a difference in everything they do, at work and in their personal lives. Votes: 0

We should all seek to innovate, or be curious about innovation. Innovation truly is one of our greatest gifts. Votes: 0

We spend most of our lives working. So why do so few people have a good time doing it? Votes: 0

We went all the way down the Himalayan chain for a day and a half. That was magnificent, except the Chinese told us they were going to shoot us down if we came out the far end. So I spent a lot of my time contacting former Prime Minister Tony Blair begging him to tell the Chinese we were coming in this direction by mistake and could he please say we have no nasty motives for flying into their territory. Votes: 0

We'd love to be involved with the creation of something very special, something quite large and something quite exciting. Votes: 0

We'll go into orbit. We'll go to the Moon. This business has no limits. Votes: 0

We'll not be sending anyone into space before it is safe and the vehicle is well and truly tested. Votes: 0

Well, I'm somebody who is just living ...living life, and if I get frustrated by something, then I like to try to put it right. Votes: 0

We're going where no one has gone before. There's no model to follow, nothing to copy. That is what makes this so exciting. Votes: 0

We've all got to do everything we can to avoid conflicts. Votes: 0

We've definitely cracked the technology. Now we're just trying to be able to produce the amount of fuels that we need to satisfy our own needs and then other people's needs. Votes: 0

We've got an engaging, edgy, vibrant, fun product, ... It may or may not work, but we're going to give it our best shot. Votes: 0

What can you do to make a difference? And why should you do it? (...) the scale of one's social investments doesn't matter. What matters is that you operate as a force for good at every scale available to you. Votes: 0

What does the name Virgin mean? We are a company that likes to take on the giants. In too many businesses, these giants have had things their own way. We are going to have fun competing with them. Votes: 0

What is a business? It's simply an idea that makes someone else's life better Votes: 0

What matters is working with a few close friends, people you respect, knowing that if times did turn bad these people would hold together. Votes: 0

What we are trying to do at Virgin is not to have one enormous company in one sector under one banner, but to have two hundred or even three hundred separate companies. Each company can stand on its own feet and, in that way, although we've got a brand that links them, if we were to have another tragedy such as that of 11 September - which hurt the airline industry - it would not bring the whole group crashing down. Votes: 0

Whatever business you are in, every company can shoot for the start in their own way. Votes: 0

Whatever you and your team decide your new brand will stand for, deliver on that promise. That's the only way you'll ever control your brand. And beware: brands always mean something. If you don't define what the brand means, your competitors will. Votes: 0

What's the most critical factor in any business decision you'll ever have to make? Basically, it boils down to this question: If this all crashes, will it bring the whole house tumbling down like a pack of cards? One business matra remains embedded in my brain - protect the downside. Votes: 0

When employees tell you about their good ideas for the business, don't limit your response to asking questions, taking notes and following up. If you can, ask those people to lead their projects and take responsibility for them. From those experiences, they will then have built the confidence to take on more and you can take a further step back. Votes: 0

When I started Virgin from a basement in west London, there was no great plan or strategy. I didn't set out to build a business empire ... For me, building a business is all about doing something to be proud of, bringing talented people together and creating something that's going to make a real difference to other people's lives Votes: 0

When I was 15, I left school to start a magazine, and it became a success because I wouldn't take no for an answer. I remember banging on James Baldwin's door to ask for an interview when he came to England. Then I got Jean-Paul Sartre's home phone number and asked him to contribute. If I'd been 30, he might have said no, but I was a 15-year-old with passion and he was charmed. Making money was always just a side product of having a good time and creating things nobody'd seen before. Votes: 0

When people are placed in positions slightly above what they expect, they are apt to excel. Votes: 0

When people warn me against doing something once my mind is made up, I grow increasingly determined to try it. Votes: 0

When something doesn't go exactly to plan, money is tight or a business is struggling - see it as a challenge rather than a failure. Look outside the box and try and find a solution - you'll be surprised how many great opportunities and possibilities arise when things look bad. You've just got to open your mind and not be afraid of sticking your neck out! Votes: 0

When we start a new venture, we base it on hard research and analysis. Typically, we review the industry and put ourselves in our customer's shoes to see what we could do better. Votes: 0

When you are making a decision about how best to serve your customers, your own experience is often a better guide than a more sophisticated analysis of the market. Votes: 0

When you are ready to make your first hires, look for people who understand your passion, want to add to your ideas and can envision ways to make improvements. Votes: 0

When you are starting a business or going down any challenging endeavor, you are bound to encounter challenges. You are going to hit many roadblocks and obstacles. These are obstacles that would make any sane person want to throw in the towel and quit. If you want your business to succeed, you can't do that (duh). Votes: 0

When you're first thinking through an idea, it's important not to get bogged down in complexity. Thinking simply and clearly is hard to do. Votes: 0

Whenever I see people getting a bad deal I want to step in and do something about it. Of course, this is not pure altruism - there's a profit to be made too. Votes: 0

Whether we're fighting climate change or going to space, everything is moved forward by computers, and we don't have enough people who can code Votes: 0

Whether we're fighting climate change or going to space, everything is moved forward by computers, and we don't have enough people who can code. Teaching young people to code early on can help build skills and confidence and energize the classroom with learning-by-doing opportunities. I learned how to fly a hot air balloon when I was 30,000 feet up and my life was in the balance: you can learn skills at any age but why wait when we can teach everyone to code now! Votes: 0

Whether you are launching a start-up or leading an established company, you should start establishing your social media presence if you haven't already. Votes: 0

Wine, like life, is meant to be enjoyed. Votes: 0

With all my employees, I listen to them, trust in them, believe in them, respect them and let them have a go! I never believe I know better than they do and have been fortunate over the years to build up a very strong management team whom I can trust and take advice from. Votes: 0

With space travel, [it's] no different. You know, in 1990 I read the name Virgin Galactic Airways. Loved the name. And set out to try to find an engineer or rocket scientist in the world who could build a safe, reusable rocket that could take people to and from space and we could start a whole new era of commercial space travel. Votes: 0

You can create a business, choose a name, but unless people know about it you're not going to sell any products. Votes: 0

You can never go too far wrong by thinking like a customer who's new to the business. Votes: 0

You can't run a business without taking risks. The brave may not live forever - but the cautious do not live at all! Votes: 0

You get the idea. Every business, like a painting, operates according to its own rules. There are many ways to run a successful company. What works once may never work again. What everyone tells you never to do may just work, once. There are no rules. You don't learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over, and it's because you fall over that you learn to save yourself from falling over. It's the greatest thrill in the world and it runs away screaming at the first sight of bullet points. Votes: 0

You know I think if the people who work for a business are proud of the business they work for, they'll work that much harder, and therefore, I think turning your business into a real force for good is good business sense as well. Votes: 0

You need lucky breaks to be successful. Votes: 0

You only live once, and I just don't want to waste a minute of my life. Votes: 0

You see, it's essential that one of us stays awake during the flight [ballon]. So, rather than using the comfortable Virgin seats which we used to cross the Atlantic, we've asked British Airways for two of theirs. Votes: 0

You shouldn't blindly accept a leader's advice. You've got to question leaders on occasion. Votes: 0

You shouldn't be looking for people slipping up, you should be looking for all the good things people do and praising those. Votes: 0

Your brand or your name is simply your reputation, you have to fight in life to protect that as it means everything. Nothing is more important. Votes: 0

Your company should act as a springboard for ambitious employees, not a set of shackles. Votes: 0

Your employees are your company's real competitive advantage. They're the ones making the magic happen-so long as their needs are being met. Votes: 0

You've got one go in life, so make the most of it. Votes: 0

You've got to take risks if you're going to succeed. I would much rather ask forgiveness than permission. Votes: 0