Just as books can serve as a springboard for learning, some movies can produce insightful tenants on leadership development. In the recent Hollywood blockbuster “The Equalizer,” renowned actor Denzel Washington stars as Robert McCall, a discreet supervisor at a local Home Depot. However, his authentic self remains distant. Nobody really knows the real Robert McCall. However, as the film progresses, McCall begins to privately reveal different aspects of his former life through a series of dangerous situations. The attributes of McCall’s name and character that were hidden in his past begin to surface as McCall fights for the rights of others. Although this article is not a treatise on the film, it does provide a leadership lesson that can transform the way successful leaders think about the power associated with his name.

From a leadership perspective, what lesson can be drawn from McCall’s character? The answer is in his name. On the surface, McCall appears to be an affable, calm, and healthy man. However, as the film progresses, McCall’s outward personality changes. The real McCall steps out of the shadows of his past and begins to act according to his real character.

In the context of the film, let’s look at several thought-provoking questions. What kind of leader are you? Do you value the importance and quality of your name? What does your name reveal about you? When people think of you and your leadership style, what adjectives or characteristics are used to describe the real you? Does your behavior reflect a person of character, honesty, integrity and respect? How do you treat your staff, your colleagues and your boss? Have you created a work environment that encourages teamwork? Have you established a reputation that makes you an ethical leader worth following?

Leaders who wanted to add lasting, positive, and strategic substance to their organization value the importance of their name and reputation. They do not flaunt danger and compromise their integrity. Proverbs 22:1 declares, “A good name is better than great wealth, and loving favor is better than silver and gold.” Unfortunately, history is littered with examples of leaders failing to grasp this simple yet profound truth.

Successful leaders are aware of their daily actions. They make informed decisions and credible choices. They are confident, competent, and caring servant leaders who strive and seek to make a difference in the organization and in the lives of others. As a leader, they are aware of the fact that their decision making is in the public eye.

When it comes to leadership, successful leaders understand that authentic leadership is based on influence. The central essence of leadership is the ability to influence the behavior of others to the extent that they are willing to engage in activities that promote the achievement of mutual goals and objectives of the organization. Therefore, to exert credible influence, successful leaders must value their reputation and the importance of not just a name, but a good name!