Fact 1: As each goose flaps its wings, it creates “uplift” for the birds that follow. By flying in a “V” formation, the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew alone.

  Questions:

• How do we provide “uplift” to our coworkers?

• What do we accomplish by “flying in formation” with our office team?

Fact 2: When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it.

  Questions:

• What does it feel like to "fall out of formation?"

• What does it feel like to be in formation?  How do we get back into formation?

Fact 3: When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position.

  Questions:

• Who is in charge of your office team?

• Who is the leader of your office team?

• Does the leader have to be the person in charge?

Fact 4: The geese flying in formation honk to encourage those up front to keep going!

  Questions:

• What does honking sound like in your office?

• What do you do to honk at others flying in your formation?

Fact 5: When a goose gets sick, wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help protect it. They stay with it until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch out with another formation of geese and try to catch up with the flock.

  Questions:

• How do you support your office team members?

• What can you do for someone who is forced out of formation?

• What happens when the going gets tough?

N.B. Facts taken from “Lessons from the Geese” written by Dr. Robert McNeish.