While films serve mainly the purpose of entertainment, many of us leave the cinema theatre with new ideas, values and thoughts. We feel inspired to act in real life based on what we learned in a film. Today, the Olinio recruitment team will recommend a list of inspirational films that teach key HR lessons for success in an ever-changing world.
We had a lot of fun watching these films, but we also used the core ideas expressed in them to become better people and better professionals. We hope this will be true for you, as well.
1. Invictus
Starring Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon, this film retells one of the most challenging moments in a president’s life. When Nelson Mandela became the President of South Africa in 1990, he was at the helm of a country torn apart by Apartheid.
His mission was nearly impossible – to bring together white and black people and help them become one nation. He made it possible through sport and national pride. As South Africa would host the Rugby World Cup in 1995, Mandella shared his vision: that South Africa should win it.
This film contains core HR values for managers and recruiters:
- Find a vision that unites and motivates your team
- Infuse your actions with your values and corporate culture
- When making changes, communicate them with clarity and empathy
- Always remember that you are not managing different departments, but one team.
2. The Intern
Starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, this film presents an apparently impossible situation: a respectable 70-year-old man taking the position of an intern at a fast-fashion company. What starts as a classic office comedy film, turns into a lesson in equality and inclusivity.
Never judge people by their age. No one is too old to learn new skills. No one has the wrong gender for specific jobs.
These are among the top HR lessons to learn from The Intern. Diversity is one of the most valuable characteristics of a successful team. Blending the experience of baby boomers with the digitally native skills of Gen Z helps companies stay ahead of the competition.
3. Up in the Air
George Clooney plays the part of a corporate downsizer in this film. His job is to fly from company to company and identify employees that can be laid off. In a twist of events, his own job is under threat when his boss hires a consultant who believes that firing people can be done by video conference.
One of the top HR lessons for leaders of this film is being mindful about implementing difficult decisions. Yes, some employees have to be let go, sometimes through no fault of their own. It is a difficult decision and it will be an uncomfortable conversation.
But you cannot hide behind a screen and avoid facing that employee and giving them the explanations they deserve. It takes one disgruntled former employee to start ruining your employer brand and your company’s reputation.
4. Apollo 13
The film, starring Tom Hanks and Kevin Bacon, reveals the importance of having the right leaders in difficult situations. As the Apollo mission is facing a life-or-death situation, the coordinators at NASA headquarters must find an effective solution quickly to bring the crew safely home.
This film teaches several key HR lessons for success:
- Master crisis communication before a crisis appears
- Recruit leaders for actual skills, rather than job titles
- Cooperation is essential in every team
- Be agile and learn how to adapt plans according to sudden changes in circumstances.
5. The King’s Speech
George VI was never trained to become King of Great Britain. His older brother, Edward, was the firstborn and thus, heir to the throne. However, after a short reign, King Edward VIII abdicated in order to marry an American divorcee, Wallis Simpson.
The film, starring Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter and Geoffrey Rush, explores King George’s biggest challenge as he is thrust into this new role: overcoming his stutter to be able to address the nation.
The top HR lessons for leaders this film teaches are focused on authenticity and the commitment to make an effort. Whether you want to attract top talent or retain your best employees, being honest and resilient in promoting professional growth are essential qualities.
We hope that this offers you a valuable watchlist and also encourages you to enhance your corporate culture and promote healthy HR and leadership values.
When it comes to finding the best employees, let Olinio help you showcase your employer brand and attract the best talents. Talk to us about your recruitment project today!