Television, as a mirror of society, has done an excellent job of capturing these various business archetypes, offering viewers a glimpse into the complexities of corporate life. From ruthless tycoons to innovative disruptors, let’s explore some common types of businessmen and the TV series that best represent them.
The Ruthless Tycoon is perhaps one of the most recognizable business archetypes. These individuals are characterized by their unwavering ambition, cutthroat tactics, and an insatiable hunger for power and wealth. They often operate in high-stakes industries and are not afraid to bend or break rules to achieve their goals. The TV series that best embodies this archetype is “Billions.” In this gripping drama, we see hedge fund manager Bobby Axelrod, played masterfully by Damian Lewis, epitomize the ruthless tycoon. Axelrod’s relentless pursuit of wealth and power, often at the expense of others, serves as a stark representation of this business persona.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the Innovative Disruptor. These are the visionaries who challenge the status quo, introducing groundbreaking ideas that revolutionize industries. They’re often seen as mavericks, operating outside traditional business norms. The series “Silicon Valley” brilliantly captures this archetype. Through the journey of Richard Hendricks and his start-up Pied Piper, we see the trials and tribulations of bringing a revolutionary idea to market. The show humorously yet accurately portrays the unique challenges faced by tech entrepreneurs in the fast-paced, ever-changing world of Silicon Valley.
The Corporate Climber is another common business archetype. These individuals are adept at navigating office politics, always with an eye on the next rung of the corporate ladder. They’re strategic in their relationships and decisions, carefully plotting their ascent to the top. “Suits” is the perfect representation of this archetype. The show’s protagonist, Mike Ross, and his mentor Harvey Specter showcase the intricacies of corporate law and the skills required to climb the ranks in a prestigious firm. Their strategic maneuvering and political savvy are hallmarks of the corporate climber archetype.
Then there’s the Family Business Scion, often thrust into leadership roles due to inheritance rather than merit. These characters grapple with the weight of legacy and the challenges of proving themselves in a business they may not have chosen. “Succession” is the quintessential series for this archetype. The Roy family’s power struggles and the children’s attempts to prove their worth to their domineering father, Logan Roy, perfectly encapsulate the unique dynamics of family-run empires.
The Ethical Entrepreneur represents a growing trend in business – those who prioritize social responsibility alongside profit. These individuals strive to make a positive impact while still running successful enterprises. Although not strictly a business show, “The Good Place” offers an interesting take on ethical decision-making. Michael’s character arc, as he transitions from a demon to someone striving to create a better afterlife, mirrors the journey of many ethical entrepreneurs who aim to improve their practices and create more value for society.
In contrast, we have the Corrupt Executive, those who abuse their power for personal gain, often at the expense of their companies and employees. “House of Cards” provides a chilling portrayal of this archetype, not in the business world but in politics, which often intersects with big business. Frank Underwood’s manipulative and morally bankrupt ascent to power serves as a cautionary tale of unchecked ambition and corruption.
The Self-Made Success is an archetype that captures the essence of the American Dream. These are individuals who have built their empires from the ground up, often overcoming significant obstacles. “Breaking Bad” offers a dark twist on this archetype. While Walter White’s journey from a struggling teacher to a drug kingpin is illegal and morally questionable, it does showcase the traits often associated with self-made success: resourcefulness, strategic thinking, and a relentless drive to succeed.
The Mentor or Business Guru is another important archetype in the business world. These are the seasoned veterans who guide the next generation of business leaders. “Shark Tank” is a reality TV series that perfectly embodies this archetype. The ‘Sharks’ – successful entrepreneurs and business executives – offer their expertise and resources to budding entrepreneurs, embodying the role of mentors and demonstrating the value of experience in the business world.
Finally, we have the Work-Life Balance Seeker, a more recent archetype that reflects changing attitudes towards career and personal life. These individuals strive to build successful careers without sacrificing their personal lives and relationships. The comedy series “Parks and Recreation” offers a lighthearted take on this archetype through the character of Leslie Knope. While not in the private sector, Leslie’s dedication to her career in local government, balanced with her personal relationships, resonates with many professionals striving for a more holistic approach to success.
These TV series offer more than just entertainment; they provide valuable insights into the diverse world of business. By showcasing these various archetypes, they allow viewers to reflect on their own career paths, leadership styles, and business ethics. Whether you identify with the ruthless tycoon or the ethical entrepreneur, there’s a character and a show that mirrors your business persona, offering both validation and food for thought in your professional journey.
