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Bart Berkey

Are You A Buffalo Or A Goose?
September 15, 2008

A book entitled "Flight of the Buffalo" (Belasco & Stayer, 1993) described two differing types of team leadership. One type of leadership is similar to the style that wild buffalo utilize. There is one lead buffalo that is responsible for dictating every move that the herd makes. In nature, buffalo are very loyal creatures who have been known to follow their leader into precarious situations without thought for their own well being. American Indians used to hunt buffalo by killing the leader, thus creating confusion without direction as the rest of the herd simply stops to become easy prey. Do you know any managers who are "Buffalo Leaders"?



The other type of leader would evoke the "flock of geese approach." As a flock of geese fly in a "V" formation, leadership changes when the need for different skills are needed. One goose might be very good at locating food while another is an expert at navigation. Each goose takes turns based on the situation, needs, and the environment of the entire group.

According to Fairy-Tales-Fables blog: "During the flight, each bird's wings create an uplift for the bird behind it. This enables the entire wedge of geese to fly 71% further than a bird flying alone. By tapping on the collective strength of individuals with a common goal and direction, organizations stand to benefit."

How do you want to be lead?  How do you want to lead?

Are you a Buffalo or a Goose?

Posted by Bart Berkey on September 15, 2008 | Comments (0)