Thursday, January 22, 2015

The Goose V


When you see geese flying in a “V formation, you might be interested in knowing what scientists have discovered about why they fly that way. It’s been learned that as each bird flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in “V” formation, the whole flock adds at least 71 percent greater flying range then if each bird flew on its own.


Basic Truth #1: Like geese, people who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling using the power of one another.



Whenever a goose falls out of formation it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front.


Basic Truth #2: There is strength and power in numbers when traveling in the same direction as others with whom we share a common goal. Those elements that help guide our direction don’t do any good unless they are communicated. Communication is not just putting information out, it’s about facilitating and ensuring that the information is heard and understood.



When the lead goose gets tired, he rotates to the back of the “V” formation and another goose flies point.
Basic Truth #3: It pays to take turns doing hard jobs – with people or with geese flying. In order to truly help and support our co-workers, it’s important to understand their function and responsibility. Some of the more specific skills and abilities may not be common to all team members but some are and the values that guide our direction are. Become curious about other functions within your office and the organization. Learn things that will enable you to help others fly.

 

The geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
Basic Truth #4: Those who are exercising leadership need to be remembered with our active support and praise. Recognition is not just for those that are following. Encourage from behind. Let our leaders know that their efforts are appreciated. Encourage all that are helping us to keep up the speed because at some point it’s going to be our turn and we might need that encouragement ourselves.
  

Jeff Wright
Organizational Performance Consultant

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