I was walking along the promenade in Brighton the other day when I saw the starlings flying in formation above the Eastern pier. If you’ve never seen it they are a fantastic sight, Hundreds of birds flying in complete synchronisation. This got me to thinking about other bird phenomena, particularly geese and ducks that fly south for the winter. If you search the Internet for information on geese and ducks, you’ll find there a re a number of things written about them and why they do this. I think that we can learn a lot from the world around us if we only open ours eyes to them. The lessons for business and teams from these birds are:

1. Together we can fly further. Geese are one of several large birds that migrate in groups and fly in a V-formation. By flying in V-formation, the whole flock adds up to 70 percent greater flying range than if each bird flew alone. Researchers have found that when birds were flying in formation, their heart rates were lower than when they were flying solo. They also spent more time gliding, which saves energy. People who share a common goal and destination (unity of purpose) can work together to make that journey easier. Working as a team is also less stressful than trying to do all the work alone.
2. Its easier when we work together. When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of flying alone. It quickly moves back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front of it. If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those who are headed in the same direction we want to go (shared resolve). Going your own way can be painful and bumpy or at the very least a drag on your body and spirit.
3. We should all take turns to lead. When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies to the point position. Being the lead goose is tiring as there is no energy saving for the lead bird. Being in front can be tiring and reminds me of a similar exercise that cyclists go through. Forward momentum (action) can be maintained by sharing the hard tasks. As teams, we need to be sure there are others in our team who have the skills, capabilities and talents to step into the lead role when needed. If we pick them carefully, work with them, and mentor them, they will be there to take over when we are absent or needed elsewhere. It also means that leaders need to know when to step aside, take some time to rejuvenate themselves and trust in the abilities of others. Finally, it points out that all of us need to learn to be good followers as we are both leaders and followers at different times and points in the journey. It is important for team members to remember they are interdependent on each other to complete the mission. We need to stand by one another through difficult times as well as when we are strong. Each member of the team is important; each member should know they would be supported in time of need. Supporting one another breeds loyalty and compassion. It also just makes good sense.

These are some of the things that we can learn from geese. Geese provide us with a great example of unity of purpose, shared resolve and action — important team and leadership lessons. So, the next time you see geese flying above you, take a moment to remind yourself just how smart they are – and what we can learn from them.

Thanks to ibm4381 for the photo