Finding business success takes more than the wave of a wand or casting a spell … but those things sure sound appealing, and no story better exemplifies the promise of magic and imagination better than Harry Potter.
As we celebrate what would be the 39th birthday of author J.K. Rowling’s most famous character, we’re taking a look at three business lessons the Wizarding World has to offer.
Be Authentic.
Being yourself at work is important. Harry, Ron and Hermione never apologized for being who they are and standing up for what is right. But authenticity is more than a fictional concept! Bauer Professor of Marketing Vanessa Patrick has published research on a “whole self” approach in the workplace, finding that “low identity integration led to greater feelings of inauthenticity and a higher likelihood of engaging in unethical behavior.”
Do Your Research.
Hermione Granger said it best: “When in doubt, go to the library.” And that’s true even after you’ve graduated. You should always do your research when it comes to meeting with potential employers or preparing for an upcoming project or meeting so that you can be at the top of your class, just like Hermione.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work.
Perhaps the most important thing that Harry Potter taught us all is the importance of creating a great team. Ron, Hermione and Harry all had strengths and weaknesses, but they all complemented one another to create a strong trio. (#UHBauer students get teamwork training through programs like the Emerging Leaders Academic Success Program (ELASP), the Ted Bauer Leadership Certificate Program and student organizations.)
