Taylor Swift is An Unlikely Leader in the NFL: 5 Takeaways for Women Leaders

Taylor Swift unexpectedly became one of the biggest stories in the NFL.

Her high-profile relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce has drawn huge media attention and opened the floodgates to a new demographic of fans – young women.

What makes this significant is that historically, the NFL has been a male-dominated domain.

Taylor Swift Influence on Football

But Swift’s influence proves women can be game-changers in leadership, economic impact, and even disrupting established norms.

Analysts estimate her involvement has generated over $300 million for the league. Female viewership has soared by 20%, driving up merchandise sales and even influencing streaming service subscriptions. When the Chiefs played the Dolphins, new sign-ups to Peacock spiked by 3 million over the game weekend.

Women Following Taylor Swift

Now, here’s the thing: This isn’t just about Swift’s star power. Reports show that women influence over 85% of consumer purchases. As the NFL attracts a younger, more progressive audience, female voices become increasingly important.

In fact, Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas was projected to shatter economic records, with visitors spending $500 million and hotels charging up to $1,000 per night. Even sportsbooks are raking in millions on bets, many revolving around Swift herself.

While Swift may not have intended to become a leader pushing women’s place in football, her impact is undeniable.

Swift Delivers Diversity

Taylor’s presence at these games serves as a valuable lesson for the league: diversity and representation matter. And she has demonstrated the immense economic power that comes with inclusivity.

For women watching, Swift’s journey offers a source of inspiration. By embracing her talents and unapologetically using her voice, she inadvertently opened doors for others. This resonates with any aspiring female leader who seeks to blaze trails and create opportunities in unexpected spaces.

Takeaways for Women Leaders

Like Swift, approaching possibilities with confidence and resolve can lead to a future of equity for all women. Here are five takeaways for women leaders from Taylor Swift’s impact on the NFL, compliments of The California Employers Association:

1. Be authentic: Taylor Swift doesn’t try to hide her enthusiasm or personality. She is authentic. Be thoughtful about your own leadership qualities and play to your strengths.
2. Be resilient: Swift faces criticism, challenges and controversies throughout her career, but consistently demonstrates resilience, bouncing back from setbacks. This is a good reminder that it is okay to be transparent with your team about setbacks — from a failed business idea to a missed deadline. Send the message to employees that you don’t throw in the towel at a setback.
3. Show your strength: Through her music, Swift encourages self-confidence, individuality and standing up for what you believe in. Show your strength and your belief in employees’ strength. Give them a sense of autonomy and empowerment to boost engagement.
4. Be inclusive: Swift is known for being inclusive and accepting of people from all walks of life. Inclusivity sets a positive example for leaders who aim to build diverse and inclusive teams. You can go beyond your organization’s goals to be inclusive. Take bigger strides to create an inclusive experience for employees and job candidates. You might welcome or even start more Employee Resource Groups.
5. Be adaptable: Successfully transitioning from country to pop music shows Swift’s ability to adapt. Not to mention, she learned a lot more about football than she ever expected through her relationship with the NFL! Her ability to pivot, change and grow is a valuable leadership quality, especially in industries with evolving trends. Sometimes the best decision is to change course. Just because you have done something one way for so long, does not mean there isn’t a better way. Don’t be afraid to take chances.