Pages

Friday, January 14, 2011

Understanding of the Spirit of the Squirrel

Once employees have an understanding of the spirit of the squirrel, based on the realsiation that they are performing worthwhile work towards a goal based on values the employees also need to be in charge of their goals and have control over how the goal is achieved.

The second principle showcases empowerment and was demonstrated by watching heavers repairing their dam, which had been damaged by a flood.  Each beaver swam back and forth with branches, and anchored them to the dam in a purposeful, independent activity.  There was no boss beaver telling the other beavers what size of branch to bring or where to put it.  Each beaver decided or itself by exercising its best judgment. 

The way of the Beaver descries an individual’s relationship to the organisation.  Employees need to have a playing field with clearly marked boundaries the role of the management is to establish the framework through setting goals and values and define the rules of the game and the limits for each position.  The players should have the liberty, and the responsibility, to work to their highest potential without unwarranted interference.  Having spirit and teamwork is not enough if management puts employees on a tight rope which doesn’t allow them to make their own decisions or judgments. 

Another critical factor is respect.  If people don’t support and respect each other in an organisation, they will not be able to reach their assigned goals. 

Gung Ho!  Requires a stretch in order to move into uncharted territory and that is achieved by making sure that expectations are according to the skill and capability of the person yet challenging, demanding the best of them and encouraging them to extend themselves beyond their reach to learn and move ahead. 

No comments: