When you’ve achieved EGOT status, what’s left to accomplish? If you’re Jennifer Hudson, the answer is simple: plenty.
In 2022, Jennifer made history as the youngest woman to win all four major U.S. entertainment awards — Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. But she’s not stopping there. “I want to double the EGOT,” she declared to a packed audience at Talent Connect 2024, LinkedIn’s annual conference for global talent leaders. “If I get another Emmy, I’ll be halfway to my second EGOT. That’s on the short list!”
The singer, actress, producer, talk show host, and best-selling author sat down with Andrew Monu, VP of marketing at LinkedIn, to chat about her inspirational journey from humble beginnings to global stardom. From battling imposter syndrome to the pivotal moments that shaped her career, Jennifer offered insights and advice that resonated far beyond the entertainment world.
1. Make the most of every opportunity
Forget fries — Jennifer added a song to every order when she worked at the drive-through window at Burger King. “That was my first job, I was 16 years old,” she recalls. When a car pulled up to order, her headset would beep. “That was my cue. ‘Welcome to Burger King!’” she sang to the Talent Connect crowd, re-creating the moment in her signature soul-stirring voice.
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. Jennifer’s restaurant manager also happened to be a club promoter, and he started booking her to perform at local events. “If you give me the opportunity, I’m going to make it work,” she explains. Before long, she was earning more singing than working the drive-through. So, she made a bold decision: She quit her job and committed fully to her dream.
“I’m going to use my gifts and talents to make my living from here on out,” she says. “And that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.”
2. Take a chance on others
In 2004, Jennifer Hudson faced a major setback when she was eliminated from American Idol. But just one year later, she landed the role of Effie White in Dreamgirls, a chance that would change her life forever. Director Bill Condon saw something special in her, casting Jennifer despite her lack of acting experience. It was a risk that paid off — she earned an Academy Award for best supporting actress for her powerful performance.
“He took a chance on me, which is why I want to give others an opportunity as well,” Jennifer explains. That ethos fuels The Jennifer Hudson Show, her syndicated daytime talk show, where she spotlights up-and-coming talent. By offering a platform to others, Jennifer continues to pay forward the opportunities that shaped her own career.
3. Know everyone’s superpower
Great leaders know how to harness the unique strengths of their team to achieve the best results. “We all have a superpower,” Jennifer says, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating the skills that make each person shine.
Leadership isn’t just about stepping up — it’s also about knowing when to step back and let others take the lead. “The biggest thing is knowing when to step up, knowing who to put forward, and whose strength is what,” she explains. By giving team members the space to use their talents, you foster an environment where collaboration thrives and the final product is stronger for it.
4. Embrace continuous learning
For Jennifer, going to work each day is like heading to school. “I always say, ‘I’m on my way to class,’” she shares, describing her approach to her work. “Everything is a lesson, and no matter where I go, I’m always taking in what I can to help me grow.”
Her approach to life and work is marked by a genuine curiosity and desire for growth. Those who work with her describe her as a sponge — constantly absorbing new knowledge and insights. But even with an EGOT to her name, she’s the first to admit there’s always more to learn. “Just because I have an EGOT, I do not know everything,” she says. “I am a student, and I’m here to learn.”
Jennifer’s growth mindset is a powerful reminder that success isn’t the end of the road — it’s part of an ongoing journey of learning and growth. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out in your career, staying curious and open to new ideas can help you adapt, improve, and achieve even greater things.
5. Manifest your own success
Jennifer Hudson doesn’t just dream about success — she makes it happen. “I believe in manifesting things,” she says, and her track record is proof.
Before winning her Oscar for Dreamgirls, Jennifer got a dog and named him Oscar. Then she won. Next, she got another dog and named her Grammy. Soon after, she took home that award for best R&B album.
When it came to the Emmy and Tony, Jennifer took a different approach. Instead of acquiring more pets, she got a custom ring with the letters “EGO” to symbolize her next goal. After winning an Emmy, she upgraded to an “EGOT” ring — and not long after, she completed her EGOT by winning a Tony Award.
Jennifer’s story highlights the power of setting clear intentions and believing in your own potential. Whether it’s naming a pet, wearing a ring, or simply visualizing your goals, the key is staying focused and committed to turning those dreams into reality.
