Whether they know it or not, a person’s family name is written in invisible letters on the back of every shirt, jersey, or blouse they wear in competition. They may not think of it in this way, but every time they enter the playing field or workplace, they represent the legacy of everyone in their family who came before them.
Is the family metaphor worth using at all these days? It certainly shouldn’t be used lightly— and absolutely not by bosses who use it a guilt hammer to coax loyalty out of workers like a drunk dad. Sorry, have I revealed too much here?
Nonetheless, I have some aversions to it’s use, as it usually isn’t earned or reciprocated by the boss who uses it… in my experience and observation anyway.
The operating metaphor above is more about emphasizing legacy and less about using family as metaphor. The point is that legacy is the powerful motivator. But your point is well taken, Jennifer. Just the introduction of the word family needs to be done with care.
There are all kinds of reasons it might fall out of wise usage.
If a high profile bad actor infamously uses (and then spoils the use of) the family metaphor - it could tip the scales into not using it. Especially if it conjures images of that bad actor in the minds of the majority who hear the metaphor being used.
I personally would like to think there is plenty of goodwill left in the word 'family' to help me explain how I feel and act toward my coworkers. But you've made a good point, Jennifer.
A metaphor should always be willing to stand up to a challenge, and sit down when it is found lacking.
Appreciate the comments so far...
Any comments posted prior to 11am ET will definitely influence the discussion we will have here at that time: https://twitter.com/AdmiredLeaders/status/1662094113452244993
Is the family metaphor worth using at all these days? It certainly shouldn’t be used lightly— and absolutely not by bosses who use it a guilt hammer to coax loyalty out of workers like a drunk dad. Sorry, have I revealed too much here?
Nonetheless, I have some aversions to it’s use, as it usually isn’t earned or reciprocated by the boss who uses it… in my experience and observation anyway.
Any great behavior, used as merely a tactic, will lower a leader's credibility.
Your point is well made, Jennifer. These recommendations aren't for bosses, just for leaders.
You'll appreciate the way we covered the discussion here Jennifer...
https://twitter.com/AdmiredLeaders/status/1662094113452244993
Yes, along with the other commenters here. Appreciate the discussion!
The operating metaphor above is more about emphasizing legacy and less about using family as metaphor. The point is that legacy is the powerful motivator. But your point is well taken, Jennifer. Just the introduction of the word family needs to be done with care.
Yes, Steve - this is the point!
The Manchester United coach isn't invoking the word as a metaphor for their organization, he instead is calling on individual's personal legacies.
Any metaphor should keep it's head on a swivel.
There are all kinds of reasons it might fall out of wise usage.
If a high profile bad actor infamously uses (and then spoils the use of) the family metaphor - it could tip the scales into not using it. Especially if it conjures images of that bad actor in the minds of the majority who hear the metaphor being used.
I personally would like to think there is plenty of goodwill left in the word 'family' to help me explain how I feel and act toward my coworkers. But you've made a good point, Jennifer.
A metaphor should always be willing to stand up to a challenge, and sit down when it is found lacking.