119 days ago

The Wild Workplace: Navigating the Management Zoo - Day 23

Kiran Reddy from Mount Eden

In the bustling offices of Te Ao Solutions, the team was tasked with launching a groundbreaking product. The journey was set to be one of collaboration and creativity, but the workplace was teeming with personalities straight out of a management zoo. Each animal's behavior became a roadblock, threatening the project’s success. The HIPPO Hiria, the CEO, always had the final say. Her Highest Paid Person's Opinion (HIPPO) dominated every meeting. "My instincts say this is the best way," she declared, overriding the carefully researched proposals of her team. Her voice silenced dissent, stalling innovation.

The ZEBRA
Zane, the marketing lead, was Zero Evidence But Really Arrogant (ZEBRA). He strutted around confidently proposing unproven strategies. “We need a viral campaign! Everyone's doing it,” he insisted, ignoring the data that suggested a different approach.

The WOLF
Wai, the project manager, was always on The Latest Fire Working (WOLF). She spent her days chasing crises rather than focusing on the broader project plan. “No time for meetings — we need to fix this bug now! she’d bark, leaving her team scrambling.

The RHINO
Rewi, a senior board member, was Really Here In Name Only (RHINO). Despite his title, he was detached from the project, offering little guidance. “Just let me know when it’s done,” he said, vanishing after every meeting.

The SEAGULL
Sara, the Senior Executive, fit the Seagull archetype perfectly. She glided into meetings unannounced, loudly criticized the team's progress, and then left as abruptly as she came. “Why is this taking so long? Just figure it out!” she squawked before flying off.

The MOUSE
Moana, a junior analyst, had Muddled Opinions, Usually Swayed Easily (MOUSE). In every meeting, she hesitated to voice her thoughts. “I’m not sure,” she often said, changing her stance based on whoever spoke last.

The PARROT
Pete, an intern, was a Pretty Annoying and Ridiculously Repeating Others (PARROT). He echoed every idea shared in meetings without adding any value. “Yes, just like what Hiria said earlier!” he’d chirp repeatedly.

The DONKEY
Dylan, the data specialist, was Data Only, No Knowledge or Expertise (DONKEY). He brought endless spreadsheets to meetings but couldn’t explain what the numbers meant. “I just pull the data,” he’d shrug when asked for insights.

The Turning Point

The project seemed doomed until a new manager, Tia, joined the team. She observed the zoo-like dynamics and decided to bring order. Tia called for a hui (gathering), where she gently but firmly addressed each personality.

-- To Hiria the HIPPO, she said, “Your voice matters, but let’s ensure everyone feels heard.”
-- To Zane the ZEBRA, she advised, “Let’s base our strategies on evidence rather than instinct.”
-- To Wai the WOLF, she suggested, “We need a clear plan to avoid constant firefighting.”
-- To Rewi the RHINO, she said, “Your involvement is crucial for guidance and support.”
-- To Sara the SEAGULL, she remarked, “Your input is valuable, but we need consistency.”
-- To Moana the MOUSE, she encouraged, “Your insights matter—trust your voice.”
-- To Pete the PARROT, she guided, “Contribute original ideas, not just echoes.”
-- To Dylan the DONKEY, she coached, “Turn data into actionable insights for the team.”

Under Tia’s leadership, the team transformed. By recognising and addressing these animalistic tendencies, they began to collaborate harmoniously, leveraging each other’s strengths and working toward a shared goal.

Moral of the Story

In any workplace, recognising and addressing unproductive behaviours is essential. Harmony is achieved when each individual contributes authentically, respects others, and aligns with the common purpose.

More messages from your neighbours
3 days ago

Show us your projects

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Whether it's craft, haberdashery, woodwork or upcycling, we'd love to see what you've been working on lately.
You may even spark someone else's creativity...

Tell us about your current project or show us a picture in the comments below...

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3 days ago

Coal Range Baking at Highwic

Highwic from Highwic - Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga

Coal Range Baking at Highwic
Watch as our volunteers recreate traditional Victorian recipes as well as modern favourites on the Shacklock coal range in the Highwic kitchen, built in the 1870s. You might even get to taste the final product!
Due to issues with the coal range the session on Wednesday 2nd of April has been cancelled.

When: First Wednesday of the month:
Wednesday 7 May
Wednesday 4 June
Wednesday 2 July
Wednesday 6 August
Wednesday 3 September
Wednesday 1 October
Wednesday 5 November
Wednesday 3 December

Time: 11am – 12.30pm

Cost: Normal entry: Adults $10, Children free
Free for HNZPT Members

14 days ago

What's one highway or road that needs attention?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

We've all been on a summer roadie and experienced first-hand the state of our roads.

If you've ever been stuck in a summer traffic jam, had near-misses on dangerous turns or feared for your life on clifftops (while the car behind you is tail-gating!) - you may have an opinion on this one.

Tell us what main road or highway you think needs some serious attention across the country, and why!

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