Leadership Lessons from Willy Wonka by Asia Johnson of Express Employment International

What better way to recognize the bosses out there than with leadership lessons from the 1971 musical film “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory?” Now, if you’ve watched the movie or this is your first-time hearing about it, you may wonder what you can learn about leadership from Willy Wonka and his golden ticket winners. We’ve pulled memorable song lyrics and quotes from the eccentric candy maker that you could apply to your unique leadership style.

“If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it.”

If you’ve watched the movie, then you know Willy Wonka singing “Pure Imagination” is a charming way to introduce golden ticket winners to the factory’s Chocolate Room. The thought-provoking lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their creativity and reach their highest potential.

Leadership Lesson: Leadership sometimes requires taking creative risks to set yourself apart. Creativity has been at the heart of business, and oftentimes leaders who think outside the box can propel their companies even further. Do you recall a time when your creativity led to better results for yourself and your team? How can you implement more creativity into your workflow?

“A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men.”

One of the most famous and quotable moments in the movie is when Willy Wonka says, in a sing-song voice, “A little nonsense now and then is relished by the wisest men,” when standing next to golden ticket winner Veruca Salt’s father in the factory’s Nut Room. As a result of squirrels deciding that Veruca is a bad nut, she eventually plunges down a garbage chute.

Leadership Lesson: You’re expected as a leader to solve problems and make rapid decisions to delegate to your team, but work doesn’t always have to feel like work. Since your team and you spend a lot of time together at work, try to incorporate fun activities whenever you can. Volunteering, celebrating significant milestones, and even allowing your team to take a short break from their work are all great methods to create, energize, and motivate your team.

“I’m very pleased to hear you say that, because I’m giving it to you.”

Willy Wonka asks Charlie, the only remaining golden ticket winner, if he enjoyed their tour of the candy factory near the end of the film. Willy Wonka’s succession plans hinge on this moment. He believes the factory will be in good hands with Charlie in charge. It can be implied that Willy Wonka shows Charlie the ropes in order to carry on his legacy before retiring.

Leadership Lesson: Good leaders show others how to become better leaders. Establishing a culture of teaching and learning can be fostered by sharing your workplace experiences with your employees.