GOOSEFACTS

Our name, Gooseworks Consulting, is a tribute to the team behavior observed in flocks of Canada Geese. It is remarkable to think of the benefit that a workplace team or an entire organization might gain by making an effort to be a little more like the geese! Some food for thought ...

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.

How do we provide uplift to our coworkers?
What do we accomplish by flying in formation with colleagues?

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.

What does it feel like to fall out of formation? What allows us to re-enter formation?
What happens when a colleague falls out of formation?

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

Who is in charge of your office team? Who leads your office team?
What does it look like to lead from your position?

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

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.

How do you support your colleagues during challenging times?
How do you like to be supported?

Credit: Facts taken from “Lessons from the Geese” written by Dr. Robert McNeish.