Bespoke and Preset Training Programs
- •Metaphors of Business enables an accurate assessment of business identity and a congruent message with that identity.
- •It identifies conflicts between the medium and the message, acting as a forensic tool that slices through corporate speak to find what is really going on.
- •Enables precise workplace communication to bridge the gap between higher management and the workforce through a radical approach that creates rapid change.
Business Identity and Business Structure
There are many business models, but many effective ones and management systems conflict with the mindsets of the people implementing them. These conflicts are often invisible and manifest in confusion and disorientation as managers struggle to explain what has happened.
Case Example: The Immobile Building
A manager consulted us because his “business does not seem to be going anywhere.”
“I have been building my business up for nearly three years and working hard, building it on firm, solid foundations. I don’t understand why it isn’t moving forward.”
The Conflict: Something built on firm, solid foundations should not be moving anywhere. You cannot “build” a skyscraper and expect it to function as a “vehicle.”
Case Example: The Management Bus
A Senior Management Team (SMT) wanted their workforce to feel “empowered” so they could be “on board” with new directives. They even created a “Management Bus” campaign.
The Problem: If you are on a bus, you are a passenger. Passengers have no control over the direction or speed of the vehicle.
SMT was paradoxically asking the workforce to be “empowered” while simultaneously inviting them to be passive passengers.
Common Metaphorical Themes in Business
- Planting seeds for new business
- Growing a business / Expanding organically
- Sowing new ideas and concepts
- Taking a product to market
- Building new business
- Having solid foundations
- Blueprints and robust structures
- Taking it to a new level
- Driving business forward
- Getting on board / Launching
- Using business as a vehicle
- Being at the helm
- Advertising/Marketing campaigns
- Hostile takeovers
- Moving in on competitor territory
- Rallying the troops in a “minefield”
- Blasting profits skywards
- Skyrocket to success
- Being a rising star / Being on top
- Business is just “flying”
Consultancy and Bespoke Training
To discuss how Metaphors of Business can clarify your organisational structure and communication, please contact:
freshnewbrain@gmail.com
