When you work at SmallBusiness.com, you begin to see small business lessons everywhere. Even when you are selecting movies to watch on Netflix, you’ll see a movie title and think, “that film has a great message about small business.” Indeed, we think there should be a Netflix category called, “Small business lessons from movies.” Here are five we recommend for the category. (See also: Our favorite small business movie of all time.)
1. The Pursuit of Happyness
(Image via wikipedia)
This drama follows a year in the life of an unemployed and, at times, homeless medical equipment salesman as he fights desperately to provide for his son.
Small business lesson: Never stop believing, never stop trying, never give up.
2. Ghostbusters
(Image via wikipedia)
Three eccentric parapsychologists in New York City decide to start their own ghost-catching business.
Small business lesson: Never underestimate the power of a catchy slogan and jingle: Who ya gonna call? Ghost Busters!
3. Office Space
(Image via wikipedia)
In this comedy cult classic, three coworkers struggle through the daily clichés of working in a mind-numbing bureaucratic cubicle farm for “da man.” Striking out on their own, they find success — indeed, far, far too much success.
Small business lesson: Meaningless bureaucracy and silly expectations do nothing but make companies meaningless and silly.
4. Forrest Gump
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Though simple-minded, Forrest Gump is still wise enough to follow his heart. And along the journey, he finds success in business … and in life.
Small business lesson: Running a small business is like a box of chocolates.
5. Jerry Maguire
(Image via wikipedia)
Sports agent Jerry Maguire is struck by a moral epiphany and feels compelled to share it with his entire firm. He gets fired. Now on his own, he chooses to stick to his moral philosophy as an independent agent representing the only client he has left.
Small business lesson: Show them the money.