One of my favorite training activities is asking participants to determine what kind of animal their management style resembles. I offer these choices: Rhino, Fox, Lamb, Chameleon or Owl.  Most importantly I ask them to choose their management style based on what their staff would say they most emulate during a typical day at work.

It is a very entertaining and insightful activity that helps leaders reflect on how their management style is perceived in the workplace. There is no superior animal and each animal has traits that can be improved.

As you read the different animals, which one best describes how your management style comes across in the workplace? Do you demonstrate the supportive nature of the lamb or the “Know it all” owl? Do you demonstrate the flexibility of the chameleon or the cunning creativity of the fox?

Or are you like me … a recovering rhino?  I am so focused and have such clear vision of the way I want it to be that I sometimes trample over the people who can help me get there.

BTW – I am studying to be a lamb!

Think about how your style motivates those around you … or not! 


This article written by Ruby Newell-Legner, a nationally recognized training expert and a friend of Baudville. Learn more about Ruby at www.RubySpeaks.com.