Rethinking Stardom: A Relativistic Approach to Studying the Absolute Best Performers

Abstract

Star performers—individuals who make exceptionally significant contributions to their organizations—are increasingly capturing the attention of both researchers and practitioners alike. However, studies on these uber-performers often employ disparate definitions, theoretical foundations and assumptions, and methods and analyses, which creates significant tension and confusion in the comparison of findings and the formation of a clear understanding of what star performance truly entails and its impact on individuals, teams, and organizations. This review aims to clarify these issues by presenting a framework for identifying stars based on four key factors: type of performance, comparison group, duration of observation, and threshold for stardom. We summarize current research on the emergence of stars, their productivity over time, and the spillover effect on nonstars. We also address the unique challenges of studying stars—such as their rarity and the skewed nature of their performance—and offer guidance on research designs and analytical tools that can more effectively capture these dynamics. We conclude with a roadmap for future research aimed at developing a more consistent and useful understanding of star performers.