5 fictional leaders we can all learn from

Leadership is not easy, and those who are charged with leading – especially in business – often look for inspiration from a number of sources. One unlikely location for management role models is pop culture.
Yet films, books and television series often provide some of the best learning examples for business leaders. Take a look below to see the top five fictional leaders from whom managers can learn. 
1. Leslie Knope from “Parks and Recreation” 
Though she may appear lovable and dopey to the untrained eye, Leslie Knope is one of the strongest leaders from pop culture. Imagine yourself in her shoes. She had to run a department full of highly contrasting personalities and individuals who were frequently not up to the task. Knope is proof that with hard work, commitment to your team and a little positive energy, you can make an office that should not work successful.
2. James T. Kirk from “Star Trek” 
What would a leadership list be without the fearless leader of the USS Enterprise? Business leaders can learn from James Kirk’s ability to keep himself and his crew focused on their mission even when they are in unknown territory. He is also a prime example of a leader who never loses his team focus. Whenever there was something to be done, Kirk was always on the bridge to assist his crew with the work.
3. Hermione Granger from “Harry Potter” 
In addition to inspiring millions of young women around the globe, Hermione Granger is also a great example for women in the workforce. She reminds business leaders – especially female business leaders – that it is okay to be smart and speak up. Hermione’s strength and brains often saved her friends, and in the end, it is what fans came to love about her. She reminds leaders to never hold themselves back for fear of not fitting in.
4. Joffrey Baratheon from “Game of Thrones” 
Every story needs a villain, and in his time, Joffrey Baratheon was one of the most hated characters on television. The boy king’s rule is a perfect “what not to do” lesson for business leaders. Joffrey’s disdain for his subjects and his sadistic behavior earned him an early, violent end. Business leaders would do well to remember that even though they are in charge, they are no better than their employees. Behaving as such will cause wavering loyalty and tension.
5. Elsa from “Frozen” 
The Snow Queen’s differences made her a temporary threat in her people’s eyes, but when she showed her true character, they learned to accept her for who she was. Elsa is a wonderful role model for leaders who may be taking the place of a beloved predecessor. Even though your team may be hesitant to follow you because you are unfamiliar, it should not hold you back from staying true to yourself and winning them over honestly.
Popular culture provides many interesting insights into modern culture, and it can teach us solid lessons. However, if you want further leadership training, visit MasteryTCN’s website today where you can check our their library of leadership courses available through their network of HR service provider partners.
Source 1
Source 2
Source 3