Show all Executive & Management jobs across Scotland
Agility training is not only awesome fun for dogs, it’s a hoot for humans too.
Watching our s1jobs’ faithful friend, Star the Border Collie, go through the hoops – and down a tunnel, and over a bench, and through the weave of poles – has inspired us to consider what managers can learn from such canine shenanigans.
Sadly, it’s not possible to set up an agility course in the boardroom – though that would be so much fun – but there is much we can emulate.
Positivity
The first rule in agility training is always be positive. Not even the brightest Border Collie will get her head – and tail – around the basics, if she’s not given enough encouragement.
Similarly, an MD can’t expect the best from employees unless the workplace has a culture of good morale and motivational management.
Affirmation
If Star doesn’t manage to jump or go through an obstacle correctly, she’s never told “no!” or scolded by her trainer. This would only make her stop in her tracks and no progress would be made.
Instead they remain calm and go slower so Star can fully understand what she’s supposed to be doing.
When an employee fails to meet their job goals, this approach will more likely lead (no pun intended) to quicker progression.
Communication
Star is pretty intuitive when it comes to natural stuff – like sheep herding and stealing biscuits – but she can’t mind read everything the trainer wants her to accomplish.
This means voice commands and body language must give clear signals.
Body signals means always being ahead of Star but also clear enough that she can see the next obstacle.
The best managers set out defined goals. They also lead from the front but offer enough room for employees to see how they can progress their own career.
Incentivisation
Whether it’s a dog treat, a favourite toy or simply a big cuddle, agility trainers know the amazing effect rewards can have on happy hounds.
Now we don’t want to promote that kind of the thing in the workplace but giving praise for a job well done and offering bonuses or perks are great ways to incentivise employees to go the extra mile.
With an eye on the prize, just like Star, it won’t be long before workers can easily overcome a whole series of obstacles – even ones they’ve never seen before.
For all the best Executive and Management roles visit s1jobs: you’d be barking mad not to!