Lessons in leadership from a man's best friend: Course draws on the parallels between humans and dogs

Abstract

Purpose

This article examines a team and leadership‐development course based on the parallels between a shepherd and his or her dog and a manager and his or her employees.

Design/methodology/approach

Draws on information provided in an interview with a farmer and international sheepdog triallist who runs the course, and details the experiences of course participants.

Findings

Describes how groups from small or large companies attempt to assess different dogs correctly in order to gain maximum potential – just as they may do with their staff or team members at the office. Tasks are given individually and as a team. Eventually, it becomes clear how a pack works as a team – regardless of differences – for the optimum performance of the task in hand.

Practical implications

Draws on the idea that humans, like dogs, are pack animals, and that dogs pick up on subtle body language but can also sense what people are feeling.

Originality/value

Challenges the corporate‐training idea of games with winners and losers.

Citation

(2006), "Lessons in leadership from a man's best friend: Course draws on the parallels between humans and dogs", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 14 No. 7, pp. 35-37. https://doi.org/10.1108/09670730610708213