Leadership lessons from 'John Wick'

I like to find leadership lessons in unusual places. If you are willing to look for them, you'll see leadership lessons all around you.

For example, I recently rewatched the 2014 action movie John Wick and realized it provided several interesting leadership lessons, although you wouldn't expect to find them in a movie like this. Here are several themes in leadership that you can find in the movie:

1. Reputation is important

John carries a big reputation in this movie. Almost everyone knows John by his reputation alone. Remember that your reputation always precedes you. What do you want your reputation to say about you? John's reputation is that he is very good at what he does, and people respect him for his professionalism and "can do" attitude. His reputation says a lot about him.

Your reputation should be one of trust, professionalism, and collaboration. Your partners and future partners will remember you by your reputation; make it a positive one.

2. Leverage your relationship network

An important part of leadership is building your relationship network. You sometimes need to use your relationships to make deals, smooth over conflicts, and generally just get things done. John leverages relationships wisely: engaging with former colleague Francis to help him in a tough moment, or using his relationship with Jimmy to smooth over a difficult situation.

Take a few moments to map out your social network. Consider who you look to if you had a problem, or needed a favor, or simply had a question. Do you have relationships that are so strong you could rely on confidential advice? Do not overlook this part of your leadership development.

3. Keep the mission simple

The whole movie is about John Wick righting a wrong, despite the odds being stacked against him. It's a classic underdog story that everyone can get behind. You understand the vision, and the movie strives to keep the mission simple.

Where are you going with your idea? What is the vision behind it? Does everyone on your team understand the "end vision" and how to get there?

4. Adjust your approach

When addressing challenges, John uses a variety of tactics. Whether he chooses a stand-up approach, or engaging with others behind the scenes, John adapts his method to the problem in front of him. Not all problems can be resolved with the same approach.

As you work with others, exercise all the tools and techniques available to you. What method works in one situation may not be the best approach for the next.

5. Remain professional

Conflict is a part of everyday life. Conflict isn't necessarily bad, but the key to healthy disagreement is to recognize your "hot" buttons. This is part of your emotional intelligence. While John's initial motivation is emotion, John finds a way to stay focused and "in the moment" when it matters. John remains "present" throughout each confrontation.

Do you lose your temper in the heat of the moment, usually during a disagreement? Or do you acknowledge your feelings, and maintain a calm presence? Use emotional intelligence to keep your interactions calm, or you'll find meetings and discussions getting out of hand and people losing temper.