Tarlek vs. Maverick: ?? Is Authenticity Overrated???

I’m a big fan of 80s pop culture, and for me, there are two very iconic, very different male characters who define that era: Pete Maverick of Top Gun fame, and Herb Tarlek, the classic, plaid-clad radio salesman at WKRP in Cincinnati.

Herb was, yes, just about as annoying as his overconfidence, plaid suits, and white shoes and belt might imply. (And hats off to the late Frank Bonner for creating one of the most memorable TV characters of all time.) Both men were very obviously very different. But both had similarities as well—they were both stereotypes of ambition, enthusiasm, and a desire to stand out.

Crafting Your Bio

When it comes to crafting a standout business profile, there’s an internet truism that says, “Be your authentic self.”

But what happens if your authentic self is Herb Tarlek? What if you’re socially awkward? Or what if, you know, everyone thinks you’re kind of annoying? Or maybe you just hate self-promotion? Is authenticity still your best answer?

Audience Perception Matters

What the “be authentic” pundits usually forget to mention is that audience perception is key. Your only goal as a business person is to make the sale. To do that, you must build an audience and you must FIRST and FOREMOST speak to their needs.

You can be as authentic as you like, of course. However, staying true to yourself also means considering how your quirks or traits may be perceived by others.

Embrace Audience Feedback

Remember that audience feedback AND authenticity are both dynamic. Today you might be a sleepy camper, tomorrow you may be raring to change the world. Both may be authentically you, but your audience may prefer your spitfire self. Or they may prefer your more mellow persona. Use their feedback to refine your approach. Understand what drives your audience and adjust which authentic self you choose to be the spokesperson for your business.

Individuality is Key

The reason that both these characters linger on in our memories, is that they were both uniquely individual. Yes, they were played by talented actors. But the individuality of these characters is what propelled them to pop culture icon status. Even if your style isn't universally admired, being an individual is what will set you apart from your competitors.

Being an individual is what will set you apart from your competitors.

Confidence is Key

Despite being so incredibly annoying, Tarlek was also incredibly endearing. He had an unrequited love for his colleague. His innate confidence in himself was appealing to an extent, as was his passion for his clients. His ideas were quite often a miss, but no one could deny his commitment to his clients.

Confidence isn’t always easy. But if you remain committed to the well-being and success of your audience, your confidence will shine through. When building your profile, think less about what you bring to the table, and more about what success means for your clients. If you advocate strongly for your audience, your will follow.

If you remain committed to the well-being and success of your audience, your confidence will shine through.

Tarlek vs. Maverick?

The key to this story is that authenticity didn't necessarily help either Tarlek and Maverick. In fact, both were stereotypes for entire populations: radio salesmen and macho throttle jockeys. But both were memorable.

Their quirks and eccentricities, their confidence made them enduring characters that remain icons more than 40 years after they were first introduced.

Whether you’re Team Maverik or Team Tarlek, the key to being a successful business owner is being memorable. Being confident. Making a genuine connection with your audience and leaving a lasting impression.

?? Read more at: Why Is it So Hard to Promote Ourselves?

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